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How can art and photography enhance the impact of our message?

While your copy will do most of the actual communicating, your first and most important impression with your audience will be the images you choose. A great graphic can stop your target audience in their tracks, ensuring that your message is heard. Let's break down some ways that image selection and usage can strengthen your overall message and reach.

An animation showing a waving hand and different headlines

This animated graphic from the CDC gets the reader's attention through lifelike and inviting movement. It also cycles through different headlines, reinforcing how important it is to have clean hands.

A smiling family

This image uses powerful emotions of family, health, and happiness to create a positive association with getting a flu shot. The smiling faces and the focus on the youngest family member reminds the target audience of their responsibility to stay healthy and get everyone vaccinated.

Wildlife poster from the National Park Service

The gorgeous art on this poster makes it a classic worth studying. The warm rich colors, the simple and serene composition, and the use of light and shadow perfectly capture the fragility and wonder of our natural parks.

tip stamp icon Snap Up Pics

Where should you go for free, publicly-licensed art and photography for your projects? The internet, of course! There are lots of places online that offer high resolution images for you to use. Just make sure you check for permission rights and give credit.

  • Google Images A great starting point for any project, make sure you use the advanced search tools to find high resolution images that are cleared for use.
  • Flickr Millions of photos live on Flickr, and a strong search engine with advanced tools makes it easy to find hi-res royalty free art.
  • Pixabay Lots of contemporary images with all kinds of subject, all royalty free. User account needed.

Do You Know?

Can I take my own photo or make my own art for my campaign?

Sure you can! In fact, shooting original photos or making your own illustration may be the best way to bring your passion for the cause into your campaign. However, creating this kind of graphic from scratch can be a challenge, so students are encouraged to source their art and photography (with permission and credit of course!).