You don’t want to be one of the 28% of small businesses without a website. But you also don’t want to have a website that looks bad. So, how do you strike the right balance between good visuals and clear content?
Focus on the background. And read on to learn how you can choose the right background image for your website!
Consider Image Size
When you’re selecting a background image, aim for images with high resolution. They should be at least 72 pixels per inch — but they also should be optimized to avoid slowing down your website.
And from a size standpoint, 1920 x 1080 pixels is best. This size will ensure that the image can stretch and consume the entire width of the screen. Otherwise, you might distort the image or end up with a tiling effect, which can look bad when unintentional.
Don’t Overlook Contrast
Choose an image with a dynamic range of values that will catch someone’s attention. Whether you’re choosing Zoom background images or Teams background images, you need enough contrast.
More importantly, your image should provide enough contrast against any headlines or images layered on top of it. In other words, avoid putting delicate images on top of a light gray background. Everything will look too washed out.
Along the same lines, don’t use overly saturated colors everywhere. Bright purple in your background image will vibrate if you use bright yellow or red on top of it.
Try Keeping Background Images Simple
One approach to background images is to limit the bells and whistles. Sometimes a solid color for the background is effective, especially if you have a text-heavy website. For instance, if you’re a writer showing off your prose, you don’t want a lot competing with that.
Choose a neutral, like gray or white, to spotlight a portfolio. Choose brighter solid colors, like red or orange, as the backdrop to announcements about new product releases. And for a slight twist on this idea, introduce a gradient for a subtle color transition.
Add Animations or Dynamic Elements
With animations, you can introduce movement into your website background. You can even try an image background eraser so you can integrate new elements into an existing picture. Consider adding a moving sky, for instance, behind two figures in an image.
Try not to use both animations and intense colors at the same time. A moving image loaded with saturated colors will overwhelm a viewer and potentially make them click away.
And when someone sees text, they will read it. Another way to grab someone’s attention is by embedding a few keywords or a text-based logo into your background image.
Find the Right background Image
Spend time finding the best background image for your style and needs. Ensure that you’re choosing an image large enough to consume the full space. And find an image with a range of values and dynamic effects that will complement any text or graphics placed on top of it.
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