TLDR: Sure, scrolling through social media keeps you in the loop, but if you unplug for a moment, you’ll realize not much has changed. People still love authentic connections, memorable experiences, and storytelling that resonates. Brands, take note: Your visual content strategy should focus on timeless appeal, not just the latest trends.
Look around. Seriously, put your phone down for a sec. Notice anything? That’s right—it’s still 2008 out there. Sure, we’ve traded flip phones for the latest gadgets and pagers for smartwatches, but the fundamentals of human connection haven’t changed. As much as we love checking out the latest trends and memes, there’s something about disconnecting that brings us back to basics. And guess what? This is a goldmine for brands thinking about their visual content marketing strategy. Let’s dive into why going back to basics could be your best strategy yet.
Authentic Connections: The Real Deal Still Wins
Remember 2008? Social media was still figuring itself out, and people were more into having real conversations over coffee than posting their latest matcha latte on Instagram. Even today, when you unplug, those real, face-to-face connections are what matter most. It’s a reminder that, at our core, we crave authenticity. And so do your customers.
• Show, Don’t Tell: People can smell inauthenticity from a mile away. Your audience wants to see the real side of your brand, not a curated, overly-polished version. Use your visual content to tell stories that are genuine and relatable. Think behind-the-scenes looks, candid moments, and user-generated content that feels real, not staged.
• Create Timeless Visuals: Trends come and go faster than you can say “Vine” (RIP), but timeless visuals have staying power. Invest in high-quality photography and video production that captures the essence of your brand in a way that feels authentic and lasting.
Authenticity never goes out of style. Show the real side of your brand, and your audience will stick around.
Memorable Experiences: Focus on What Matters
In 2008, we weren’t worried about getting the perfect shot for Instagram Stories. We were more focused on living in the moment—whether it was a concert, a family barbecue, or just hanging out with friends. Brands today can take a cue from this simpler time by focusing on creating experiences that are memorable for their audience, not just photo-ops.
• Capture the Experience: Use your visuals to capture the full experience of what your brand offers, not just the end product. Whether it’s a music venue, a coffee shop, or a fitness class, show the atmosphere, the energy, the little moments that make it special.
• Engage Beyond the Screen: Encourage your audience to engage with your brand in the real world, not just through a screen. This could mean hosting in-person events, creating interactive experiences, or even sending a handwritten thank you note. These moments are memorable and create a lasting impression.
Focus on the moments that matter. Your audience wants experiences.
Storytelling That Stands the Test of Time
We all love a good story—whether it’s a book, a movie, or a brand narrative. Back in 2008, storytelling wasn’t about going viral; it was about connection, emotion, and resonance. The same applies today. Your brand’s story should be more than just a fleeting trend. It should be something your audience connects with on a deeper level.
• Tell Stories, Not Ads: Your visual content should do more than just promote a product. It should tell a story that resonates with your audience and makes them feel something. This could be a narrative about your brand’s journey, the people behind your products, or the impact you’re making in your community.
• Stay True to Your Brand: Don’t get caught up in trying to keep up with every new social media trend. Stay true to your brand’s core values and tell stories that align with those values. Your audience will appreciate the consistency and authenticity.
Great storytelling never fades. Focus on narratives that resonate, not just trends that fade.
Look Up, Tune In, and Connect
In all, if you put down your phone and look around, you’ll see that the basics of connection, experience, and storytelling haven’t changed much. And that’s a good thing. For brands, this means doubling down on what’s real, what’s memorable, and what’s truly impactful. Forget chasing the latest social media gimmick. Focus on creating visual content that tells a story, engages your audience, and stands the test of time.
Because at the end of the day, when the apps have changed and the trends have moved on, it’s the brands that stayed true to themselves that people will remember.
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Raised Media Co. is a NYC-based commercial photography and video production agency specializing in experiential visual content. We help brands tell compelling stories through high-impact photos and videos.
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