The Secret Ingredient to Stunning Portfolios? Great Stock Imagery
We’ve partnered with Editorial Stock Images to offer you 15% off your membership using code JANUARY15.
Because your work deserves to be seen in the best light possible.
Is the design magic getting lost in translation?
You’ve poured your heart into that design project — the branding is flawless, the website flows like a dream, and the client is over the moon. But when it’s time to showcase it? That magic can sometimes get lost in translation.
You know that feeling when you’ve finished a branding or website project and you know it’s some of your best work — but when it comes time to share it? Something falls flat. The design is strong, but the mockups or imagery aren’t doing it justice.
Yep, I’ve been there too.
As designers, we pour so much time into our client work, but when it comes to showcasing it beautifully — especially in a portfolio, case study, or website — things can feel rushed or unfinished. And that’s such a missed opportunity.
One of the easiest (and most impactful) ways I’ve found to bring a project to life is through carefully chosen stock imagery — not just any stock photos, but ones that actually feel aligned with your studio’s aesthetic. Ones that make your work look like it belongs in a design book.
Here’s how the right stock imagery can completely transform how your work is received:
5 Ways Elevated Stock Imagery Levels Up Your Design Portfolio
It sets the tone for your studio style
Your portfolio isn’t just a collection of past work — it’s a visual pitch to future clients. Stock imagery that feels modern, editorial, and intentional can instantly communicate your style without saying a word.It helps your designs breathe
White backgrounds and standard mockups are fine… but they don’t always give your designs the space or context they deserve. A beautiful backdrop (like textured paper, layered fabric, or styled desks) adds dimension and warmth.It creates consistency across your site
Using cohesive stock images helps tie your case studies, blog, and services pages together — especially when you haven’t photographed every project. Think of it as building your own visual language.It gives you more control over your brand story
Sometimes, your clients don’t give you final photos. Or the ones you do get don’t quite match the vision. Good stock imagery gives you the ability to present your work the way you intended it to be seen.It saves you time (and still looks polished)
You don’t need a styled shoot for every single project. A strong stock photo library helps you create beautiful visuals quickly — without scrambling for mockups or over-designing every layout.
At January Made Design, I’ve been leaning on Editorial Stock Images lately to help tie everything together — and it’s honestly like a new lease on life – I am ALWAYS excited to add a new portfolio item, because I have the perfect images to match.
The ESI stock photo membership is built by creatives, for creatives — so it doesn’t feel like you're digging through the same tired library. The imagery is editorial, timeless, and packed with personality.
If you want to elevate your next case study, portfolio piece, or even your own studio brand — ESI is worth a look.
We’ve partnered with them to offer you 15% off your membership using code JANUARY15.
Because your work deserves to be seen in the best light possible.
Check out how I’ve used ESI stock in these gorgeous custom brands:
Did you find this post helpful?
You can buy me a coffee below to say thank you ♥️☕
Share me on Pinterest!
