The following websites offer free images that can be used on your website. Be sure to select the free ones, not sponsored, unless you are happy to pay for them. As a rule of thumb I try to avoid images with recognisable faces in them, unless I can get written permission from the person in the photograph (or their parent/guardian in the case of a minor).

• Pixabay
• Unsplash
• Pexels
• Every Pixel
• Dreamstime
• Morguefile
• Freeimages.com

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Think about the qualities you want your photos to express - lightness, brightness, welcoming, friendly, etc. You want to project a favourable impression. Consider whether to hire a professional photographer to take a few good images of your branch building and Reading Room.

Internal photos should appear bright and interesting, inviting and friendly. Spend some time tidying up and removing any tatty or old books before the photographer arrives. If you want people in your photos, give them some notice and plan out how you want the photography session to go.

External photos are best taken at dusk with the lights on inside, and the door open. Warm and welcoming is key. The main objective here is to help people find you, and decide whether they want to come in or not.

If you are hiring a photographer, it is also a good idea to get them to take a few images of your community - the beach, mountains, a sunset, or anything that is unique about your community or surrounding district. These can be used for promotional materials as well as on your website.

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It's important to avoid breach of copyright and obtain the right permissions before using images on your website.

Here are some important links:

• Website Guidelines on ChristianScience.com.
• Legal guide for photographers and photography businesses (Australia).
• Permissions page on JSH-Online.
• Guidelines for social media on ChristianScience.com.

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Visual appeal is not the only consideration. Read more in this introduction to choosing images for your branch website.

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