Political campaigns don’t always make for the most dynamic photos, but posting shots of your candidate’s activity on the trail is an important part of your social media content plan. Even if they’re doing their own posting, you should always have a good selection of photos for them to choose from
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when snapping pics for your campaign’s social media channels.
Gear Head
Social media is all about being authentic and since most normal people just use photos from their smartphone, most of your photos should, too. There are lots of occasions when a better camera or even a professional photographer should be used, but don’t get too hung up on equipment for your every day social media posts.
Where’s Waldo
A good campaign staffer always stands in the back of the room, right? But when it comes to photos – especially when you’re taking them with with your iPhone – you need to get closer to the front so people can actually see who the candidate is.
The Black Hole
It doesn’t matter if attendance is the best the local Rotary club has ever seen, if your photo has an empty spot with unfilled chairs, it’s a bad look, so always frame the shot to make the place look packed.
The Lecturer
When your candidate is speaking is often the few minutes of downtime you have to think about taking photos for social media, but it doesn’t capture his or her personality or even then hard work they’re doing. Be sure to add in a mix of candid or posed group shots so it doesn’t look like the candidate is just lecturing voters. You’ll also get bonus reach when people in the photos share them on their own accounts.
Bigfoot Sighting
If it’s blurry, poorly framed, or dimly lit, it’s OK to just post a status update without a photo.
The Narcissist
You don’t have to be in every photo you post on social media. Post scenery, life on the road, a book you’re reading. Show voters you are a normal person, like them.
Don’t ever let perfect be the enemy of the good. It’s more important that you’re regularly posting content that’s authentic and consistent, but with these tips, you’ll up your social media photo game.