The Ultimate Guide for Using AI Images on your Radio Station Website

A few weeks ago, I created a podcast titled “Best Practices for Using AI-Generated Images on Your Radio Station Website.” Since then, I’ve uncovered even more insights for you. This exploration has become increasingly relevant, especially after a recent complaint by a listener about AI images not fitting news stories quite well. This feedback highlights the ongoing need for careful consideration in our visual content strategy, particularly when it comes to AI-generated and stock images. The use of these has raised concerns about authenticity and effectiveness. Let’s go deeper into the impact of generic images on content effectiveness and explore expanded best practices for using images responsibly on your radio station’s website.

The Impact of Stock Images on Copy Effectiveness

Before AI images, we had to rely on the pictures we were given or legally obtained stock images.  While convenient, stock images can negatively affect the effectiveness of your copy:

• Reduced Credibility: Generic stock photos can make your content appear less authentic, potentially undermining the credibility of your message.
• Lower Conversion Rates: Studies have shown that using authentic photos instead of stock images can lead to significantly higher conversion rates, with one test revealing a nearly 35% increase in conversions.
• Decreased Engagement: Stock photos are often easily recognizable and can be subconsciously ignored by users, reducing overall engagement with your content.
• Lack of Brand Consistency: Generic stock images may not align with your station’s unique brand identity, potentially diluting your visual message.

Now that we understand the negative impact of stock images, we should apply the same scrutiny to the AI images we create.  While the initial podcast and article were more generic for managers, most of these best practices are for the daily content creators who create and use AI images.

Best Practices for Image Use in Radio Station Websites (Updated)

To maintain authenticity and enhance the impact of your content, consider the following best practices:

1. Opt for Less Obvious Images

• Replace full-scene images with close-ups or detail shots
• Use “hands taking notes in a boardroom” instead of an entire boardroom scene
• Choose “a stack of vintage books” rather than “The Vintage Market in {your town}”

2. Avoid Location-Specific Imagery

• Use generic landscapes or cityscapes
• Focus on close-ups of relevant objects or scenes
• Prevent distraction and maintain the credibility of news articles

3. Depict Generic Actions, Not Specific Individuals

• Show people engaged in universal activities (e.g., riding a bus, playing sports)
• Avoid images of people in specific roles or situations (e.g., a named official speaking at an event)

4. Consider Alternatives to AI Images

• Use official logos (e.g., fire department, local government)
• Incorporate infographics or data visualizations
• Feature abstract or symbolic imagery related to the story theme

5. Prioritize Relevance and Context

• Ensure every image directly relates to the story’s content
• Ask if the image adds value to the story
• Consider if the image could be misinterpreted or mislead the audience

6. Disclose AI Image Use

• Add a small watermark or tag to AI images
• Include a general disclaimer on your website about the use of AI-generated imagery

7. Maintain Consistent Style

• Define acceptable styles, color schemes, and themes
• Ensure consistency across your website to maintain a professional appearance

8. Prioritize Original Photography

• Use original photos of your team, studio, and local events whenever possible
• Leverage the authenticity that resonates more strongly with your audience

9. Leverage User-Generated Content

• Encourage listeners to submit photos related to your station or local events
• Increase audience engagement while providing authentic imagery

10. Implement a Consistent Visual Style

• Establish a cohesive look for stock or AI-generated images
• Apply specific filters or editing techniques to align with your brand identity

11. Optimize for Mobile

• Ensure all images are optimized for mobile viewing
• Cater to listeners accessing your website on smartphones over desktops

12. Implement Proper Attribution

• Clearly attribute the source of AI-generated or stock images
• Maintain transparency without distracting from the content

13. Regularly Audit and Update Images

• Periodically review your website’s imagery to ensure it remains current and relevant
• Avoid outdated visuals that can make your station appear behind the times

14. Use Caution with AI-Generated Images

• Be aware of potential biases and inaccuracies in AI-generated images
• Avoid misrepresenting the radio station or a place, person, or event within the image
• Always review these images carefully for issues before publication

15. Incorporate Local Landmarks Responsibly

• Use real photographs of recognizable landmarks rather than AI-generated or stock approximations
• Maintain authenticity when featuring local scenes

16. Diversify Your Image Sources

• Mix different types of visuals, including photographs, illustrations, and graphics
• Create a more dynamic and engaging website

17. Focus on Emotional Impact

• Choose images that evoke emotions relevant to your content
• Enhance the connection between your stories and your audience

By implementing these best practices, you can harness the power of visual content while maintaining journalistic integrity and audience trust. Remember, the goal is to enhance your stories visually without compromising on accuracy or authenticity. As AI technology evolves, we’ll surely adjust these best practices as new developments emerge. Until then, this strategy will help create a more authentic, engaging, and effective visual presence for your radio station’s website, enhancing the impact of your content and strengthening your connection with your audience.