iStock Shares Visual Content Tips for the Age of AI

iStock recently published a comprehensive guide for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) on improving their SEO by effectively using visuals in the age of generative AI. The guide draws on data from the company’s visual research platform and aims to help businesses and individuals connect with their ideal customers in the evolving digital landscape.

According to iStock’s VisualGPS research, SEO is one of the most sought-after skills among SMBs worldwide. The study found that 60% of survey respondents create or source their own content, and many are exploring the use of generative AI for both content ideas and visual creation.

Helen Pollitt, iStock’s Director of SEO, emphasized how AI is changing how SMBs should approach search engine optimization. She noted that many effective and affordable tools are now available to help brands improve their rankings and increase organic traffic, from combining stock imagery with AI-generated visuals to optimizing for new, AI-powered search engines.

Key Recommendations from iStock

iStock’s new guide offers several key tips for improving visibility in an AI-driven digital world:

• Focus on SEO basics: Traditional SEO practices like descriptive file names and alt text, and saving visuals in the right formats, such as WebP and SVG, are still relevant
• Use video to attract viewers: Even though 74% of consumers watch videos to learn and get inspiration, only 11% of SMBs are currently using video
• Experiment with AI tools: Use them for tasks like keyword research, copywriting, and content creation, but be sure to label any AI-generated visuals clearly
• Align with Generative Engine Optimization (GEO): As AI-powered search engines become more influential in driving referral traffic, it’s essential to adjust your strategy to improve visibility

Why This Matters for SMBs and Creatives

iStock’s guide highlights a major shift in SEO, moving beyond a focus on just keywords and links to a more comprehensive strategy that includes visuals, AI tools, and emerging search technologies. The quality of your images and videos, whether they are stock, AI-generated, or a combination of both, directly impacts your online visibility.

For SMBs and independent creatives operating in competitive markets, adopting these new strategies could be the key to reaching the right customers instead of being overlooked. It also creates new opportunities for creatives, as businesses are increasingly looking for flexible, visually compelling content that is search-friendly and adaptable to AI-driven platforms.