Taking Photos for Your Church Website

"The purpose of placing photos on your church website is to show people who you really are." --Paul Steinbrueck

Put yourself in the place of someone checking out a new church. What would you look for on a church website? What sorts of things do you want to see in the photos? What information would be good to know? Take photos that would answer those questions you have!

Where should you take your photos?

• Take the photos in and around your church building. People like to see your space and know what to expect when they visit.

• Try to get as much natural light as you can. Different kinds of light can change your photo, but natural light is the most...well, natural.

Who should I take pictures of?

• Aim for a mix of ages and genders. You want your photos to represent your actual congregation, not just a subset of it.

• Try to get a mix of perspectives. Close up photos, as well as photos of large spaces. Take photos of people doing things, but also people just smiling at the camera.

What sort of pictures will I need?

• Take some photos up and down (portait orientation) and some photos sideways (landscape orientation). You'll have different applications for each, so having a mix is helpful.

• As you're planning for your website update, you'll need photos of every staff member, photos that represent each ministry your church has, as well as some general photos of people and your church building.

When you're taking your photos, it isn't against the rules to ask people to stage things. You'll get willing volunteers this way and can set up the photos exactly the way you want them to be composed.

Lastly! Don't be afraid to use the equipment you have. You don't need a fancy camera, your cell phone will do a great job!

Do your church website photos need updating? Make a list and getting snapping! If your whole website needs a refresh, I'm here to help. Click the button below to schedule a free consult call. I'd love to hear more about your church and how you want to grow your presence online.