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How to Create the Perfect Featured Image for Your Blog Post
Before clicking a blog, a featured image is what you might see—spread out on your screen—before anything else. And it’s also probably why you might decide to read the blog’s content, or not.
Featured images play an important role in how a piece of content is perceived and, ultimately, understood. What’s more, a good one can ramp up engagement significantly.
However, a lot goes into creating the perfect featured image, from choosing the right images to evaluating their relevance to your content. So, let’s explore the nuances of this process together.
What Makes a Blog Post’s Featured Image Stand Out?
A major part of what makes a good featured image is its uniqueness. And while that may seem pretty obvious, it’s vital for you to use crisp and visually appealing images that speak to your blog’s essence—or the content you are trying to put out.
This can involve creating your own images rather than using generic stock pictures. And if you have to use them, opting for the paid ones will ensure you have more unique images with better quality. Another option is customizing stock images, which is something we’ll get to later.
Additionally, the typography of your image is also something to consider. You want to make sure that you use fonts that are eye-catching and readable.
Closely related to the typography is the use of colors. Colors give meaning and life to your images, and you should opt for visually appealing colors. Using consistent colors can also help build a brand identity, thus setting your content apart.
In view of the above, one important question remains: what impact do I want this image to have on a potential reader? Your answer will set the tone for the kind of featured images you use or create.
Let’s get started with the steps for creating a great featured blog post image.
1. Using Stock Images
Stock images can be incredibly useful, especially if you do not have the time or graphic know-how to create custom featured images.
There are a bunch of high-resolution stock image sites where you can download images for your blog. Many of them are free; for some, you’d have to pay to use them. And while stock images are often overused and can appear in many other blogs or ads, you can find some unique ones with a bit of digging around.
You can also add a personal touch to make your stock photos stand out. These can involve adding text, colors, graphics, or your brand logos. You might also want to consider opting for paid stock photos if you want something more unique. Sites like Unsplash, Pixabay, and Shutterstock offer a wide range of stock photos you can utilize as featured images.
Another means to get the perfect featured images would be to create them yourself—using graphic design tools. There are numerous graphic design tools you can choose from. For everyday use, an intuitive tool like Canva should do the trick. However, there are other free graphic design tools worth exploring.
We’ll use Canva to show you how to create a simple featured image for a blog post. You don’t need to be particularly skilled in graphic design to know how to use Canva, and you can whip up something great in no time.
First, open up Canva on your device. Then, click on the Create a Design icon in the top right corner of the page. Next, click Custom Size under the Create New menu. This will enable you to create a custom design of your own instead of the suggested designs.
Input the dimensions in the boxes provided. We recommend using featured images that are rectangular as this enhances the user experience. To achieve this, the dimensions should be around a 2:1 width-to-height ratio.
For example, the recommended size on WordPress is 1200 x 628 pixels. This is because it works well with most themes and can adapt to various screen sizes. It also looks good when shared on other platforms.
Once you’ve chosen a dimension, click Create New Design. This will open up a blank canvas for you to work with.
On the left, you have templates and styles to choose from. You can also insert text, graphics, or drawings. But first, let’s choose a suitable background. Navigate to the left sidebar and click Elements. Here, you can scroll to Photos and use the search bar to find one.
For example, if you’re looking for an image showing a stack of books, the words “stack of books” will do. Once you find a suitable image, you can select it by clicking on it or dragging it onto your canvas. Then, right-click on the image and select Set image as background.
There are a few ways to edit the image. Click Edit Photo at the top to see the options available. Select any option that resonates with you and reflects the type of images you’re trying to create.
Here, we’ve added the blur effect to keep the image out of focus before adding text. You can then add a rectangle shape to put your text on and transparency effects for some dazzle.
And here’s the final look:
3. Choosing a Theme
Themes are essential for building consistency and ensuring your blog stays true to its mark. Hence, you can choose a theme by sticking with certain colors, patterns, or styles that make your blog recognizable and distinct.
This makes it easier for people to engage with your content—they can form connections between your content and the theme and are able to recognize it easily.
Ensure your theme represents your content and what you aim to achieve with it. For example, a fashion blog can use themes that involve fabric prints or pieces. These overarching elements could be present in every featured image and help to highlight the blog’s purpose. Additionally, you should also select a color palette that is representative of the content you post.
To help you stay consistent with the theme you’ve chosen, consider setting up a Brand Kit in Canva. This is a repository of all the elements that make your brand unique, and it makes it much easier to apply them across your featured images.
4. Size and Style Considerations
One important thing to take note of when creating a featured image is its size. Whether you’re publishing on a blogging platform or on your own website, you need to make sure it’s an appropriate size that is optimized for cross-platform sharing.
Most publishing platforms will have recommended image sizing, which you can use. For example, on WordPress, there are Thumbnail, Medium, and Large dimensions for how your image appears on various platforms. However, if it’s your own website, you should consider a size that fits within your existing layout.
5. Your Featured Image Needs to Be Relevant
The last point—and probably the most important of all— is relevancy. Regardless of the theme, style, or image you’ve chosen, it’s important that it is actually relevant to the content.
The whole point of a featured image is to give readers a glimpse of what the content is. As such, your featured image should elicit in readers the same feeling they’ll get from reading your post—or, at least, propel them to read the post.
In choosing a featured image that is relevant, consider the topic or theme the content aims to pass across and apply that considerably. For example, If you are using stock images, you should include relevant keywords in your search to get decent results.
You can also add customizations to your images to make visual communication easier. For example, an image with a text overlay may better convey the intended message than a plain one.
Featured Images Set the Stage for Your Blog Posts
A featured image is undoubtedly one of the best ways to increase engagement with your blog content. And quite frankly, you need people to actually click on your posts to appreciate the content that you’ve created.
By incorporating the tips we’ve provided in this article, your blog can be better optimized for reader engagement.
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12 Proven Methods to Make Money Blogging in 2024
This is a contributed article.
The world of blogging continues to thrive in 2024, offering a compelling avenue for creative minds to share their knowledge, build an audience, and even turn their passion into profit. Whether you’re a seasoned blogger or just starting, there are numerous effective strategies to monetize your blog and achieve financial success. Here, we delve into 12 proven methods to make money blogging in 2024:
1. Embrace Niche Expertise:
Standing out in the vast blogosphere requires focus. Carving a niche allows you to cater to a specific audience with targeted content. This not only builds a loyal following but also positions you as an authority in your chosen field. Whether it’s gardening techniques, travel hacking tips, or the intricacies of cryptocurrency, delve deep into a subject you’re passionate and knowledgeable about. Targeted audiences are more receptive to monetization efforts, making them ideal for success.
2. Content is King (and Queen):
High-quality content remains the cornerstone of any successful blog. In 2024, readers crave informative, engaging, and well-written content that solves their problems, answers their questions, or entertains them. Invest time in crafting valuable blog posts, articles, or videos that resonate with your target audience.
- Focus on evergreen content: Create content that remains relevant for a long time, attracting consistent traffic and boosting your earning potential.
- Incorporate multimedia: Spice up your content with captivating images, infographics, or even videos to enhance reader engagement and improve SEO.
- Maintain consistency: Develop a regular publishing schedule to build anticipation and keep your audience coming back for more.
3. The Power of SEO:
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) ensures your blog ranks high in search engine results for relevant keywords. This increases organic traffic, the lifeblood of any monetization strategy.
- Keyword research: Use keyword research tools to identify terms your target audience searches for. Strategically incorporate these keywords into your content naturally.
- Technical SEO: Optimize your blog’s loading speed, mobile responsiveness, and overall technical aspects to improve search engine ranking.
- Backlink building: Encourage other websites to link back to your content, boosting your blog’s authority in the eyes of search engines.
4. Monetization Magic: Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing allows you to earn commissions by promoting other companies’ products or services. When a reader clicks on your affiliate link and makes a purchase, you get a commission.
- Choose relevant affiliates: Promote products or services that align with your niche and resonate with your audience.
- Transparency is key: Disclose your affiliate relationships clearly to your readers and build trust.
- Integrate strategically: Don’t just bombard readers with links. Weave affiliate promotions naturally into your content, highlighting the value proposition.
5. Display Advertising: A Classic Approach
Display advertising involves placing banner ads, text ads, or other visual elements on your blog. When a reader clicks on an ad, you earn revenue.
- Choose reputable ad networks: Partner with established ad networks that offer competitive rates and relevant ads for your audience.
- Strategic ad placement: Place ads thoughtfully, avoiding an overwhelming experience for readers.
- Track your performance: Monitor ad clicks and conversions to measure the effectiveness of your ad placements and optimize for better results.
6. Offer Premium Content:
Providing exclusive, in-depth content behind a paywall can generate additional income. This could be premium blog posts, ebooks, online courses, or webinars.
- Deliver exceptional value: Ensure your premium content offers significant value that justifies the price tag.
- Multiple pricing options: Consider offering tiered subscription plans to cater to different audience needs and budgets.
- Promote effectively: Highlight the benefits of your premium content and encourage readers to subscribe.
7. Coaching and Consulting:
Leverage your expertise by offering coaching or consulting services related to your niche. Readers who find your content valuable may be interested in personalized guidance.
- Position yourself as an expert: Showcase your qualifications, experience, and client testimonials to build trust and establish your credibility.
- Offer free consultations: Provide a limited free consultation to potential clients, allowing them to experience your expertise firsthand.
- Develop clear packages: Outline different coaching or consulting packages with varying time commitments and pricing structures.
8. The Power of Community: Online Events and Webinars
Host online events or webinars related to your niche. These events offer valuable content while also providing an opportunity to promote other monetization avenues.
- Interactive and engaging: Structure your online events to be interactive with polls, Q&A sessions, or live chats. Click here to learn more about image marketing with Q&A sessions and live chats.
9. Embrace the Power of Email Marketing:
Building an email list allows you to foster stronger relationships with your audience and promote your content and offerings directly.
- Offer valuable incentives: Encourage readers to subscribe by offering exclusive content, discounts, or early access to new products.
- Segmentation is key: Segment your email list based on reader interests to send targeted campaigns that resonate more effectively.
- Regular communication: Maintain consistent communication with your subscribers through engaging newsletters or updates.
10. Sell Your Own Products:
Take your expertise to the next level by creating and selling your own products. This could be physical merchandise, digital downloads, or even printables related to your niche.
- Identify audience needs: Develop products that address the specific needs and desires of your target audience.
- High-quality offerings: Invest in creating high-quality products that offer exceptional value and user experience.
- Utilize multiple platforms: Sell your products through your blog, online marketplaces, or even social media platforms.
11. Sponsorships and Brand Collaborations:
Partner with brands or businesses relevant to your niche for sponsored content or collaborations. This can be a lucrative way to leverage your audience and generate income.
- Maintain editorial control: While working with sponsors, ensure you retain editorial control to maintain your blog’s authenticity and audience trust.
- Disclosures are essential: Clearly disclose sponsored content to readers, upholding transparency and ethical practices.
- Align with your niche: Partner with brands that complement your content and resonate with your audience.
12. Freelancing and Paid Writing Opportunities:
Your blog can serve as a springboard for freelance writing opportunities. Showcase your writing skills and expertise through your blog content, attracting potential clients.
- Target relevant publications: Identify online publications, websites, or magazines related to your niche and pitch your writing services.
- High-quality samples: Include high-quality blog posts from your site as writing samples when pitching to potential clients.
- Develop strong writing skills: Continuously hone your writing skills and stay updated on current trends in your niche to deliver exceptional work.
Conclusion:
Building a successful blog that generates income requires dedication, strategic planning, and high-quality content. In today’s digital age, there are numerous opportunities to make money online through blogging. By utilizing a combination of methods such as affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and selling digital products or services, you can leverage your blog’s potential and achieve financial success.
Remember, consistency in posting, engaging with your audience, and staying adaptable to trends are key to thriving in the ever-evolving blogosphere. Embrace new strategies, refine your approaches, and always keep your readers at the forefront of your content creation journey. With dedication and the right approach, your blog has the potential to become a valuable source of income and a platform for sharing your knowledge and passion with the world, making money online while doing what you love.
Image Credit: DepositPhotos
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Snapchat Explores New Messaging Retention Feature: A Game-Changer or Risky Move?
In a recent announcement, Snapchat revealed a groundbreaking update that challenges its traditional design ethos. The platform is experimenting with an option that allows users to defy the 24-hour auto-delete rule, a feature synonymous with Snapchat’s ephemeral messaging model.
The proposed change aims to introduce a “Never delete” option in messaging retention settings, aligning Snapchat more closely with conventional messaging apps. While this move may blur Snapchat’s distinctive selling point, Snap appears convinced of its necessity.
According to Snap, the decision stems from user feedback and a commitment to innovation based on user needs. The company aims to provide greater flexibility and control over conversations, catering to the preferences of its community.
Currently undergoing trials in select markets, the new feature empowers users to adjust retention settings on a conversation-by-conversation basis. Flexibility remains paramount, with participants able to modify settings within chats and receive in-chat notifications to ensure transparency.
Snapchat underscores that the default auto-delete feature will persist, reinforcing its design philosophy centered on ephemerality. However, with the app gaining traction as a primary messaging platform, the option offers users a means to preserve longer chat histories.
The update marks a pivotal moment for Snapchat, renowned for its disappearing message premise, especially popular among younger demographics. Retaining this focus has been pivotal to Snapchat’s identity, but the shift suggests a broader strategy aimed at diversifying its user base.
This strategy may appeal particularly to older demographics, potentially extending Snapchat’s relevance as users age. By emulating features of conventional messaging platforms, Snapchat seeks to enhance its appeal and broaden its reach.
Yet, the introduction of message retention poses questions about Snapchat’s uniqueness. While addressing user demands, the risk of diluting Snapchat’s distinctiveness looms large.
As Snapchat ventures into uncharted territory, the outcome of this experiment remains uncertain. Will message retention propel Snapchat to new heights, or will it compromise the platform’s uniqueness?
Only time will tell.
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Catering to specific audience boosts your business, says accountant turned coach
While it is tempting to try to appeal to a broad audience, the founder of alcohol-free coaching service Just the Tonic, Sandra Parker, believes the best thing you can do for your business is focus on your niche. Here’s how she did just that.
When running a business, reaching out to as many clients as possible can be tempting. But it also risks making your marketing “too generic,” warns Sandra Parker, the founder of Just The Tonic Coaching.
“From the very start of my business, I knew exactly who I could help and who I couldn’t,” Parker told My Biggest Lessons.
Parker struggled with alcohol dependence as a young professional. Today, her business targets high-achieving individuals who face challenges similar to those she had early in her career.
“I understand their frustrations, I understand their fears, and I understand their coping mechanisms and the stories they’re telling themselves,” Parker said. “Because of that, I’m able to market very effectively, to speak in a language that they understand, and am able to reach them.”Â
“I believe that it’s really important that you know exactly who your customer or your client is, and you target them, and you resist the temptation to make your marketing too generic to try and reach everyone,” she explained.
“If you speak specifically to your target clients, you will reach them, and I believe that’s the way that you’re going to be more successful.
Watch the video for more of Sandra Parker’s biggest lessons.