For some people, having access to talented artists, illustrators and photographers is the foremost thing. For others, finding a theme or concept appears to be the most important element in creating a postcard.



Still, postcards are the most image-dependent among all the print projects. Without the right images, postcards would appear to lose its charisma. It might even come off as strange.

So which or what makes a great photo for the postcard? And how does one rate a photo? Without going into the details of professional photography, let us just try to limit ourselves and see how we can tell what a great photo is from mediocre. And let’s see just how we can make full use of it.

Focus

Like any message, the photo needs a subject. It is the central point of interest and is usually placed in the foreground of the shot (towards the viewer).

Just as important as knowing what to include is knowing what to exclude. Anything that isn't part of the subject or its context is only a distraction. It can clutter up the image and dilute the message.

So eliminate extraneous surroundings - usually by moving closer to the subject - and make a clear, tidy shot. A painter creates art by addition - adding more paint - whereas a photographer creates art by subtraction - removing unnecessary elements.

Color

‘Stock-quality' images make great use of color. Look for solid primary colors: bright 'sports-car' red, emerald green, lightning yellow, and ocean blue. This makes the subjects of your photo stand out better.

Alternatively, look for 'color harmony' within the subjects of the photographs, where scenes reflect somehow a seamless blend of colors. The almost similar shades of colors and tones from one family can do this. Imagine warm oranges, sunset yellows and reds.

This collection of colors presents a calm, restful image where the eye plays with the differing shades and intensities. Look for pastels, cream, or other colors provided by nature.

Dramatic Lighting

Photographs that are very intriguing and captivating are often ones that make interesting use of light. Look out for beams of light shining through clouds, trees or windows, long shadows, and the like. Photos taken at certain angles like side- and backlighting produce different effects as well.

Shoot in the warm golden hours of early morning and late afternoon. This would work wonderfully for photos because the light is not as harsh.

Develop Your Style

There are a lot of fantastic photos out there and a myriad of tutorials on how you can recreate them. But that’s only half of the story. Make something you borrowed entirely your own.

Think of it as cooking a new dish. Follow the recipe perfectly and then add in the flavors that you want that will make it your signature dish. You can touch up your photos, frame it the right way, crop it, and do whichever it is you think that would make it fit your wonderful vision of your postcard.

Quality images are a product of many years of experience and to a lesser degree, training. It is much better to keep on practicing how to take great photos and what would look great in your prints. By doing this and by studying qualities of good photos online, you will soon develop the eye and the skills to spot quality photos immediately for your postcard printing.

Remember to find the right postcard printer for you quality photos. Search for them online and compare each one to the other, carefully selecting the one who would take care of your photos and postcard design as much as you do. Once you do this, be ready to transform your images into high-quality prints you’ll be more than proud to show off.