Stock Photos

One of the main elements that creates interest in ads, brochures, websites and all other print marketing are visually appealing photos. Unless you can afford to hire a professional photographer and have high-end photos taken of your product, you're often times better off to buy stock photos.

There are a variety of stock photo resellers and stock images on the Internet, the possibilities are endless. Stock photos can range from a few dollars for low-res Website files to several thousand dollars for a hi-res print quality images. Istockphoto, http://www.istockphoto.com/, is a good site with reasonably priced images, but be prepared they have a wide assortment so you may spend hours browsing the catalogue.

Having good quality images will give you the edge to capture your target audience's attention. For examples of how stock photos can make your business look professional and high-end, visit our online portfolio at http://www.xfactordesigns.com/portfolio.html.

How to Claim Your Business Listings On Google, Yahoo and Bing

In addition to design and web site development, the founder of Xfactor Designs is also a Certified eMarketer with a special focus in Search Engine Optimization. Below are a few quick tips any business can use to increase their web site exposure.

• Claim your business listing on Google
  Sounds easy and it is, but to the general business owner navigating the internet isn't always simple. Go to http://www.google.com/, type your business type and zip code into the search field (i.e. web design 85086) and if you see your business click on the MORE button below it. Once on your Google Maps page, click on "Add or edit your business" and sign into you Google account or create one. Make sure the contact details you enter are valid because Google may contact you to confirm your listing... to ensure your business listing isn't being hijacked.
  If your business listing does not show up, add it http://www.google.com/intl/en_us/services/var_1.html > Local Business Center. You will be required to log in to your Google account (or create one). Once in you'll be able to add contact details, web address, hours, photos, payment methods and much more.
• Claim your business listing on Yahoo
  Just like with Google, go to http://www.yahoo.com/ and type your business type and zip code into the search field (i.e. web design 85086) and if you come up click on the listing then select "Know more details about this business? Click here to share them with your neighbors." This will allow you to claim the listing as an employee or owner, once you sign into your Yahoo account.
  If your business listing doesn't show up, add it by visiting http://listings.local.yahoo.com/csubmit/index.php.
• Claim your business listing on Bing
  Since Bing is a newer search engine we need to help them populate their business resource section. Just like with Google and Yahoo, go to http://www.bing.com/ and and type your business type and zip code into the search field (i.e. web design 85086) and if you come up click on "Change your business listing" if you'd like to update the information and claim the listing. Prior to changing or adding any details you will be prompted to log in to your Windows Live account.
  If your business listing does not show up, add it at https://ssl.bing.com/listings/ListingCenter.aspx. If you don't have a Windows Live account, I suggest creating it prior to completing the listing form, otherwise you'll have to fill out the form twice. After completing all the details, you will need to follow the directions in the letter from Bing to complete the verification process.

As you submit your listings give yourself enough time, don't rush. Be clear and concise with your messaging and be specific.