7 Tips for Working with Images in Design
Jul 7, 2025
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2 min read
Images can make or break a design. They can capture attention, set the tone, and tell a story faster than words ever could. But only when used right. Here are 7 tips for working with images in design—so your visuals do more than just look good.
1. Don’t avoid screen edges
Margins are great, but sometimes they are not required for photos. Sometimes, extending your images to the screen’s edge creates a bolder, more immersive experience.
2. Prioritize quality photos
Never settle for images that are less than optimal.
Great places to look for quality photos are:
3. Avoid sterile stock photos
Skip the cheesy business handshake. Your users can spot inauthentic imagery a mile away. Choose visuals that feel real, human, and relevant to your product or brand voice.
4. Embrace similarities
When working with images in design, consistency is key. Stick to a cohesive visual style—whether that’s moody lighting, pastel tones, or minimal compositions. A unified image library makes your design feel intentional.
5. Ensure good contrast
Text over images? Always test for contrast. If users can’t read it, it doesn’t work—no matter how nice the image looks. Accessibility should never be sacrificed for aesthetics.
6. Match photo and audience
Matching with the audience results in higher conversion rates. Choose visuals that reflect their world, aspirations, and identity.
7. Don’t forget to crop
Cropping isn’t just about trimming—it’s about storytelling. Focus on key subjects, remove clutter, and make sure your image fits across different devices and aspect ratios.
Final Thought
Images aren't just decoration—they’re communication. So next time you're working with images in design, you should treat them like design elements, not fillers. With the right photos and smart decisions, your visuals can do heavy lifting for brand, usability, and emotion.
1. Don’t avoid screen edges
Margins are great, but sometimes they are not required for photos. Sometimes, extending your images to the screen’s edge creates a bolder, more immersive experience.
2. Prioritize quality photos
Never settle for images that are less than optimal.
Great places to look for quality photos are:
3. Avoid sterile stock photos
Skip the cheesy business handshake. Your users can spot inauthentic imagery a mile away. Choose visuals that feel real, human, and relevant to your product or brand voice.
4. Embrace similarities
When working with images in design, consistency is key. Stick to a cohesive visual style—whether that’s moody lighting, pastel tones, or minimal compositions. A unified image library makes your design feel intentional.
5. Ensure good contrast
Text over images? Always test for contrast. If users can’t read it, it doesn’t work—no matter how nice the image looks. Accessibility should never be sacrificed for aesthetics.
6. Match photo and audience
Matching with the audience results in higher conversion rates. Choose visuals that reflect their world, aspirations, and identity.
7. Don’t forget to crop
Cropping isn’t just about trimming—it’s about storytelling. Focus on key subjects, remove clutter, and make sure your image fits across different devices and aspect ratios.
Final Thought
Images aren't just decoration—they’re communication. So next time you're working with images in design, you should treat them like design elements, not fillers. With the right photos and smart decisions, your visuals can do heavy lifting for brand, usability, and emotion.
If you aren't following us on Instagram already, you're seriously missing out! Become a part of our ever-growing community and learn something new from the field of product design every. single. day.
Happy designing! 🥳
andrija & supercharge design team
If you aren't following us on Instagram already, you're seriously missing out! Become a part of our ever-growing community and learn something new from the field of product design every. single. day.
Happy designing! 🥳
andrija & supercharge design team
