Quick Tips for Designers: How to Choose the Perfect Stock Image for Social Media
- Info @ 123RF
- 23 hours ago
- 2 min read
Boost engagement. Stay on-brand. Save time with the right visuals.
Whether you’re designing for Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or LinkedIn—your visuals do the talking before your caption is read. That’s why stock images are a powerful tool—when used right.
Let’s dive into 8 quick pro tips to help you select the perfect stock image from 123RF, backed with design insight and real results. Need visuals ASAP? Use promo code "WEEKENDINSPO15" at checkout to get 15% off your next purchase on 123RF. Valid this weekend only—don’t miss it!
1️⃣ Match the Mood with Your Message
The image should match the tone of your post. Think emotions first—are you trying to inspire, excite, relax, or motivate?
🔍 Search Suggestions on 123RF:
“Joyful lifestyle photography”
“Calm minimalist nature scene”
“Motivational mood lighting”
2️⃣ Use High-Quality, On-Brand Imagery
Stock doesn’t mean generic. Stick with images that align with your brand style—clean, colorful, edgy, soft, or bold.
🔍 Search Suggestions:
“Minimal workspace top view”
“Creative team working modern office”
“Stylish flat lay with color blocks”
3️⃣ Add Your Logo—Always
Don’t just post. Brand your content. Use space in your images to include logos or subtle watermarks, especially on shareable posts.
🔍 Search Suggestions:
“Tablet mockup with blank screen”
“Urban billboard mockup”
“Sky with empty space”
4️⃣ Use Images That Allow for Text Overlay
Images with clear negative space are a designer’s best friend when you need to add quotes, captions, or CTAs.
🔍 Search Suggestions:
“Minimalist background with copy space”
“Blurry background with person walking”
“White desk with coffee and notebook”
5️⃣ Keep a Consistent Color Story
Your feed should feel curated. Stick to a cohesive palette that echoes your brand identity and improves visual recognition.
🔍 Search Suggestions:
“Color palette flat lay”
“Pastel gradient design background”
“Monochrome aesthetic collection”
6️⃣ Crop Smart for Every Platform
Choose images that look great square, vertical, or horizontal. This helps your design adapt to Stories, Reels, Posts, and Ads.
🔍 Search Suggestions:
“Centered subject photography”
“Wide-angle minimalist background”
“Portrait orientation image with top and bottom space”
7️⃣ Create a Branded Collection for Speed
Create collections or folders in your 123RF account for each campaign, season, or visual style. This streamlines future projects and maintains brand cohesion.
🔍 Search Suggestions:
“Moodboard on desk”
“Creative branding style guide”
“Designer planning with visual assets”
8️⃣ Tap Into Design & Social Trends
Stay inspired by browsing the latest design trends—from bold Y2K aesthetics to softcore gradients, or AI-glitch visuals. Trend-driven posts feel fresh and current.
🔍 Search Suggestions:
“2025 design trends”
“Retro futuristic aesthetic”
“AI generated visual glitch art”
“Y2K social media design”
✅ Visual Content Checklist for Social Posts
Match the mood with your message
Stick to high-quality, brand-relevant images
Include your logo every time
Choose visuals with space for text overlays
Keep your colors consistent
Pick flexible images for cropping across formats
Organize visual assets into collections
Stay on top of trending design aesthetics
💡 Ready to level up your feed? Explore 123RF’s curated collections, trending photo styles, and editable templates for Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and more.