For all the energy we spend putting together ToV documents, style guides, and personas, it’s easy to slack on stock photography.
But what’s the difference between visual language and the written word? Our blog posts, emails, landing pages—they’re all part of our company’s DNA. They’re all indicators of what’s important to us.
Our blog relies heavily on Unsplash for stock photo needs—not just because there are enough stock photos to forever feed our needs, but because their work fits our goals. We care about diversity, and we want that to be visible throughout our branding. Blogs, emails, and landing pages included.
The voices of our editorial team have come together to share some examples of what we love in, and on, Unsplash.
(And if you’d like to get in on the fun, you can submit your favorite photo in the Diversity category for the Unsplash awards here until December 7th).
Shayna Hodkin, Managing Editor, Inside Design
InVision’s all about empowering designers, which is what I love about the company and my role. When choosing stock photos, I look for imagery that supports this mission—particularly photos highlighting women and people of color in leadership positions.
Photographer: Matthew Reyes
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: Three women ready to punch Nazis and hunt zombies.
Photographer: Rawpixel
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: A powerful Black woman about to teach us some lessons.
Photographer: Rawpixel
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: Who runs the world?
Stephanie Gonzalez, Copywriter
Growing up in the 80s and 90s, the idea of the perfect model was a clearly defined one for me: tall, thin, long hair, unmarked (and unaltered) skin. Not only does that image not describe what I see in the mirror, it also doesn’t describe most of the people I interact with on a daily basis. I look for stock photos that challenge this stereotypical visual, proving that “perfect” is what you make it.
Photographer: rawpixel
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: Perfect beach bodies.
Photographer: Nathan Dumlao
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: Perfect skin.
Photographer: rawpixel
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: Perfect hair.
Kaysie Garza, Content specialist
If someone types on a Mac in public and no one takes an elegant photo, did they even type? In tech, the composition of popular stock photography is limited, but I’m not necessarily opposed. To stand out, I look for photos that are customizable with a unique perspective. If everyone wants shots of users typing or presenting in boardrooms, no sweat—but let’s showcase underrepresented people in those same natural scenarios.
Photographer: Rawpixel
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: Computer scientist typing
Photographer: Rawpixel
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: Two designers working
Photographer: NESA by Makers
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: Pair programming in office
Alisa Calvillo, Social Media Marketing Manager
We exist to serve the community of designers around the world so our social media channels need to represent designers everywhere at all times. We keep universal images at the forefront with an added touch of something unexpected like composition, perspective, or location.
Photographer: Kevin O’Connor
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: Inspiration is everywhere
Photographer: Kelly Sikkema
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: But first, coffee
Photographer: Jeremy Bishop
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: Remote worker’s office
Sean Blanda, Editorial Director
Brooklyn. SF. LA. The design capitals of the U.S. are well established and it shows in our stock photography. I think we have enough photos of that Soho loft, thanks. Luckily there are lots of options in other (just as vibrant IMO) cities. Here are some of my favorites:
Photographer: Igor Oliyarnik
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: From most angles, the Rock and Roll Hall of fame in Cleveland is a simple pyramid. But when the Photographer gives it as much attention as, say, the Chrysler Building? It becomes a work of art. Funny how that works.
Photographer: Akash Singhal
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: Do you know what city this is? No? Good. (It’s Dallas)
Photographer: Braden Jarvis
If Unsplash asked me to caption, I’d say: Oklahoma City, showing off.
Recognize your favorite Unsplash photographers by submitting them for an Unsplash Award. Submissions in 12 categories are open until Dec 7th and winners will be announced December 17th on Unsplash’s Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Shayna is Managing Editor of InVision's design publication, Inside Design. She lives in Tel Aviv with two big dogs.
