It's pretty clear to me that standard stock images (examples 1 / examples 2) don't help to build a brand or identity. Are there any studies about the impact of stock images? Any other thoughts?
In case you are wondering: Our marketing division loves stock images and I try to keep them away from our GUIs.
Answer
I've never thought about exactly WHY we hate stock photos, but I think it's related to the concept of the uncanny valley.
Most cheesy business-centric stock photos look almost real, but there's always just something that makes them clearly unnatural. Is it the perfect mix of skin colors amongst the group? Is it the fact that they seem WAY too happy to be typing on a keyboard or talking on the phone? Is it that they all shop at the same business-casual outfitters?
In other words, a lot stock photography is simply bland. Unless 'bland' is the brand message the company wants to communicate, it's best to avoid the stuff.
Custom photography is ideal, but, to be fair, there are good stock photography resources. However, they tend to cost a bit more and do require the talents of a graphic designer to use them properly.
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