What Is a Hero Image?

What Is a Hero Image?

by | Apr 13, 2025 | Website Foundations

If you’ve ever visited a website and been greeted by a large, eye-catching image at the top, you’ve encountered a hero image. It’s the visual centrepiece of a webpage, designed to grab attention instantly and set the tone for the rest of the site.

You may be wondering, what is a hero image, and why does it seem to appear on every modern website you visit?

Whether you’re browsing an online shop, a personal blog, or a business website, hero images help tell a story before a single word is read.

But what exactly makes a hero image so powerful, and why do so many websites use them?

What Is a Hero Image?

A hero image is a large, high-quality visual placed prominently at the top of a webpage. It introduces the site’s message, mood, and purpose in one glance. Rather than being just a pretty picture, it’s a strategic design element that plays a major role in branding, engagement, and user experience.

Hero images come in different forms:

  • A photograph (e.g., a product shot or a lifestyle image)
  • A graphic or illustration
  • A video background
  • A slideshow of multiple images

No matter the format, the goal is the same: captivate visitors and encourage them to stay longer.

what is a Hero image?

Why Are Hero Images Important?

Web design has come a long way. Years ago, websites were mostly text-heavy, but as technology and internet speeds improved, visual storytelling became more prominent. Hero images emerged as a way to create instant impact while making sites more engaging and memorable.

Here’s why hero images matter:

✅ They grab attention immediately – In a world where visitors decide within seconds whether to stay on a site or leave, a well-placed hero image can hook them instantly.

✅ They communicate your brand’s message – A well-chosen image can tell users who you are, what you do, and why they should care—all before they even start reading.

✅ They improve user experience – A clear, visually appealing introduction helps visitors feel comfortable and confident about exploring further.

✅ They encourage action – Many hero images include a call-to-action (CTA), such as “Sign Up,” “Learn More,” or “Shop Now.” This helps direct visitors to the next step on their journey.

The Role of Hero Images in User Engagement

Hero images are not just about making a site look pretty—they play a key role in keeping visitors engaged.  If you’re building your first site, understanding what is a hero image helps you create visual impact right from the start.

First Impressions Matter – If a website looks outdated or cluttered, visitors may leave immediately. A high-quality hero image makes a site feel modern and professional.

They Set the Tone – Whether it’s a sleek, minimalist tech brand or a cosy, family-run café, a hero image can evoke emotions and expectations from the start.

They Reinforce Storytelling – The best hero images are more than just decoration—they align with the site’s purpose and message. For example:

  • A travel website might feature a breathtaking landscape to inspire wanderlust.
  • An eco-friendly brand might use a nature-inspired hero image to reinforce its sustainability message.
  • A business site might showcase a friendly team photo to highlight trust and approachability.

By capturing the right emotions, a hero image can make visitors feel connected before they even scroll down.

Best Practices for Designing an Impactful Hero Image

Choose the Right Image

Your hero image should align with your brand’s personality. Are you aiming for something bold and adventurous or calm and professional? The colours, style, and composition should match your overall branding.

Keep Text Clear and Concise

If your hero image includes text, make sure it’s easy to read. Avoid busy backgrounds that make words hard to see. Use short, strong messages that get the point across quickly.

incomplete superhero

Use a Strong Call-to-Action (CTA)

A hero image should guide visitors towards an action. Whether it’s “Get Started,” “Book a Call,” or “Explore More”, make sure your CTA stands out.

Optimise for Speed and Responsiveness

A beautiful image means nothing if it takes forever to load. Compress images so they load quickly, and ensure they display well on all screen sizes, including mobile phones and tablets.

Test and Improve Over Time

Even the best hero images can be fine-tuned. Try different layouts, colours, and messages to see what resonates most with visitors.

And Finally...

A hero image is more than just a picture—it’s a powerful storytelling tool.

Whether you’re launching a website for the first time or refreshing an existing one, choosing the right hero image can make a huge difference in how visitors perceive and interact with your site.

I’d love to hear from you—have you chosen a hero image for your site yet? What kind of visual felt right for your brand?

Leave a comment below to share your experience. And if you’re just getting started and looking for step-by-step guidance, I highly recommend checking out Wealthy Affiliate—it’s where I first began learning how to build my site with confidence.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

The Internet is for Everyone

The Internet is for Everyone

by | Apr 11, 2025 | Website Foundations

If you’ve never spent much time online, or the idea of using the internet feels a bit overwhelming, you’re not alone. Many people feel unsure about where to start, but the good news is that the internet isn’t just for the younger generation or tech-savvy experts—the internet is for everyone.

Whether you want to stay in touch with family, learn new skills, shop online, or even start a small business, the internet can open up a world of opportunities. The best part? You don’t need to be a computer expert to get started.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the basics and help you take your first steps online with confidence.

Why the Internet is for Everyone

The internet has become a big part of daily life, and it’s not just for younger people. More and more older generations are getting online, discovering new hobbies, reconnecting with loved ones, and learning things they never thought possible.

Did you know that more people over 50 are using the internet than ever before. Many are video calling family, shopping online, and even sharing their experiences on social media proving the internet is for everyone!

Young and old online showing the internet is for everyone

The internet isn’t just about social media. You can use it to:

  • Keep in touch with family and friends through emails, WhatsApp, or video calls.
  • Read the news and stay updated with what’s happening in the world.
  • Watch videos and learn new things, from cooking to DIY.
  • Find great deals on shopping and even order groceries online.
  • Learn digital skills and even build a small online business.

If you’ve been hesitant to explore the internet, now is a great time to give it a go!

How to Take Your First Steps Online

Getting online doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple steps to help you start:

1. Get Connected

First, you need internet access. If you have a smartphone, you may already have mobile internet. Otherwise, you can set up Wi-Fi at home or use the internet at your local library or community centre.

2. Choose Your Device

You can access the internet using:

A smartphone – Portable and great for beginners.

A tablet – Bigger screen, but still easy to use.

A laptop or computer – Good for larger tasks and learning.

If you don’t have a device yet, you might consider borrowing one or visiting a place where you can try before you buy.

3. Learn the Basics

Here are a few key skills to practise:

Using a search engine – Google is your best friend for finding information.

Creating an email account – This helps you stay connected and sign up for things online.

Navigating websites – Learning how to move between pages and click on links is important.

Typing and clicking – If you’re using a computer, practising with a mouse and keyboard can help.

There are plenty of free beginner tutorials available on YouTube and websites designed for digital skills training.

4. Stay Safe Online

The internet is amazing, but like anything else, it’s important to stay safe. Here are a few golden rules:

  • Use strong passwords – Avoid using easy-to-guess words like “1234” or “password.”
  • Don’t share personal details – Be cautious when entering personal information online.
  • Beware of scams – If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Stick to trusted websites – Look for websites with “https://” for secure browsing.

If you’re unsure about something, it’s always okay to ask someone you trust before clicking or signing up for anything. Or you can drop a comment below and I’d be so happy to give you a hand.

What Can You Do Online?

What you can do on the internet

Once you’re comfortable, there’s so much you can do online:

  • Stay connected – Video calls, emails, and instant messaging make it easy to chat with family. 
  • Shop safely – Order groceries, gifts, or essentials from home. 
  • Watch and learn – Enjoy free educational videos, documentaries, and entertainment. 
  • Read and discover – Access news, books, and blogs on topics that interest you. 
  • Start a project – Want to create a website or start a small online business? I’ve got a beginner-friendly guide to help you get started at Get Online Step by Step!

The more you explore, the more confident you’ll feel using the internet in your daily life.

And Finally…

The internet is a fantastic tool, and it’s never too late to learn. Whether you want to stay in touch with family, pick up a new hobby, or even start your own online journey, you can do it step by step.

The internet is for everyone so take a little piece of it just for you.

For more information these guides at Age UK cover a range of topics, including:

  • Choosing and setting up devices

  • Connecting to the internet

  • Sending and receiving emails

  • Using apps and video calling

  • Online shopping and staying safe online

If you’re looking for simple, beginner-friendly guides on how to get online, including setting up a website or learning digital skills, Get Online Step by Step can help you through the process.

There’s a whole world waiting for you online—why not take that first step today?

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

Easy Social Media Tips to Grow Your Online Business

Easy Social Media Tips to Grow Your Online Business

by | Apr 9, 2025 | Social Media

Confidence

Social media can feel overwhelming when you’re new to the online world, but with the right approach and some social media tips, these platforms can become powerful allies in growing your online business. You don’t need a huge budget or a massive following to see results—just a willingness to learn, connect, and stay consistent.

1. Tell Your Story

Your business has a unique story, and sharing it helps you connect with your audience on a personal level. People love to see the journey behind a brand—why you started, the challenges you’ve faced, and what makes your business special. Consider sharing:

– Your business’s origin story
– Behind-the-scenes content
– Customer success stories

This not only builds trust but also makes your brand more memorable.

2. Share Eye-Catching Visuals

Social media is a visual space, and high-quality images and videos grab attention more quickly than text. Think about what stops you mid-scroll—a beautiful photo, a funny video, or a colourful infographic?

Infographics are especially useful for simplifying complex ideas into easily digestible visuals that people love to share.

3. Use User-Generated Content (UGC)

Encouraging your customers or followers to share their experiences with your products or services is a fantastic way to build trust. Reposting user content (with permission) showcases real-life testimonials and gives your business credibility.

Ideas for UGC:
– Ask customers to tag you in their posts
– Run a hashtag campaign
– Feature customer reviews in your stories or posts

social media tips including ugc

4. Be Consistent with Your Brand

Think of your brand as your online personality. Everything you post—from colours and logos to the tone of your captions—should feel like you. Consistency builds trust and makes your posts instantly recognisable.

Start with a few brand elements, like a colour palette or photo filter, and use them across all platforms.

5. Make Your Content Interactive

Polls, Q&As, and quizzes help your audience feel involved and offer insight into what they care about. Use tools like Instagram Stories’ poll feature, or run a fun quiz related to your niche. It keeps your content lively and your audience engaged.

6. Social Media Tips for Platform Success

Not every platform works the same way. Tailor your content to each:

– Facebook: Great for communities and longer posts


– Pinterest: Ideal for visual content and evergreen ideas


– YouTube: Excellent for tutorials and deep-dives

Use each platform’s unique features—like Instagram Reels, Facebook Groups, or Pinterest Idea Pins—to increase visibility and engagement.

social media tips for different platforms

7. Post at the Right Time

Posting at the right time boosts your reach. Most platforms offer insights into when your audience is most active. Try scheduling your content during those peak hours, and experiment to find what works best.

8. Work With Influencers & Brand Advocates

You don’t need celebrity influencers to make an impact. Micro-influencers with loyal followings can be just as effective.

Reach out to those who align with your brand values and consider collaborations like giveaways or reviews.

9. Engage With Your Community

Social media is about connection. Reply to comments, answer questions, and interact with others in your niche. It builds relationships and keeps your audience coming back.

And Finally...

Social media is a long-term game, but with consistent effort, it can drive real growth for your online business.

Start small, try out these social media tips, and most importantly—stay true to yourself. Your presence matters, and showing up authentically is your biggest strength.  For more social media tips try reading this post from Buffer

Have you tried any of these tips?

Or do you have a social media strategy that’s worked well for you?

Leave a comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts and keep the conversation going.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

Affiliate Marketing Is Evolving – What You Need To Know

Affiliate Marketing Is Evolving – What You Need To Know

by | Apr 7, 2025 | Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing has come a long way. Gone are the days of simply adding links to a blog and hoping for the best. With new laws, technology, and consumer expectations, staying ahead of the game is more important than ever.

If you’re completely new to affiliate marketing, don’t worry—I’ll break it down in plain English so you can understand what’s changing, why it matters, and how you can build a sustainable affiliate business.

Staying on the Right Side of the Law

Before we dive into exciting tech and strategies, let’s talk about the rules. The last thing you want is to build a promising affiliate marketing business only to get caught out by new regulations.

  • Privacy laws matter. Laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) exist to protect user data. If your website collects emails or tracks visitors, you need to be transparent about how you use that data.
  • Honest marketing is key. Overselling or making false claims will not only damage your reputation but could also get you in trouble. Consumers are savvy—they expect honesty, so always be upfront about what you’re promoting.
  • Ad regulations apply to affiliate marketing. If you’re using paid ads, platforms like Google and Facebook have strict rules on transparency and claims. Ignoring them can get your ads shut down or even your account banned.
Friendly Policeman for affiliate marketing legal matters

Staying informed on legal requirements isn’t just about compliance—it’s about maintaining credibility and ensuring your audience trusts you.

The Role of Data and AI in Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is becoming smarter thanks to data and artificial intelligence (AI). These tools help marketers understand their audience better and create content that actually resonates. But how does this impact beginners?

  • Better Targeting: AI can analyse behaviour to predict what customers are likely to buy. 
  • Automated Assistance: Chatbots and AI-driven emails can improve engagement without extra work. 
  • Performance Tracking: Data analytics tools show what’s working and what’s not, so you can tweak your approach.

That said, technology should support, not replace, human connection. People trust people, not robots! Keep your content personal and relatable while using AI to make your strategy more effective.

Building Trust and Authority in a Crowded Market

Affiliate marketing is competitive, but you can stand out by building trust and credibility. Here’s how:

  • Be authentic. People can spot fake enthusiasm a mile away. If you promote something, make sure you genuinely believe in it.
  • Create a community. Encourage interaction through blog comments, social media, or an email list. A loyal audience is more valuable than quick sales. 
  • Use social proof. Reviews, testimonials, and case studies boost trust and help new visitors feel confident in your recommendations.
Crowded market

One of the best ways to build a long-term affiliate business is through platforms like Wealthy Affiliate, which teaches how to grow a trustworthy website using free, organic traffic rather than relying on paid ads.

Emerging Trends in Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing isn’t standing still. New technologies are reshaping the landscape, and if you want to stay ahead, it’s worth paying attention.

Voice Search & AI Assistants

  • More people are using smart speakers and voice assistants to find information.
  • Optimising your content for natural, conversational keywords can help you stay visible.

Virtual & Augmented Reality (VR/AR)

  • Some brands are already using VR and AR to showcase products interactively.
  • As the tech becomes more accessible, expect more immersive affiliate marketing opportunities.

Blockchain & Transparency

  • Blockchain technology is helping reduce fraud in affiliate tracking and payments.
  • Expect more secure, transparent transactions in the future.

These aren’t just futuristic ideas—they’re shaping the way affiliate marketers connect with their audience today.

And Finally...

Affiliate marketing is evolving fast, but the core principles remain the same:

  • Follow ethical and legal best practices. 
  • Use data and AI wisely, but don’t lose the human touch. 
  • Build trust and authority for long-term success. 
  • Stay open to new technology, but focus on what works for you.

If you’re serious about learning affiliate marketing the right way, Wealthy Affiliate is a great place to start. It offers step-by-step training and a community that helps you grow a real, long-term business.

No matter where you are in your journey, take your time, stay informed, and keep adapting—affiliate marketing success is all about consistent learning and improvement.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

Super Affiliate System: A Beginner-Friendly Review

Super Affiliate System: A Beginner-Friendly Review

by | Apr 6, 2025 | Tools & Resources

If you’ve ever looked into making money online, you might have come across the Super Affiliate System (SAS). It’s a well-known training program that teaches affiliate marketing – a business model where you earn commissions by promoting products and services online.

But is it beginner-friendly?

Does it really work?

And how does it compare to Wealthy Affiliate (WA) – another popular platform in the affiliate marketing space?

In this review, I’ll break everything down in simple, easy-to-follow language, so even if you’re completely new to affiliate marketing, you’ll understand what’s on offer. 

What is the Super Affiliate System?

The Super Affiliate System is an online training course created by John Crestani, a well-known figure in the affiliate marketing world.

The course is designed to take you from a beginner to a skilled affiliate marketer by teaching you paid advertising techniques and how to promote products profitably.

It’s a structured, step-by-step program that walks you through setting up an online business, running ads, and scaling your earnings over time.

SAS Review

How Does the Super Affiliate System Work?

The training follows a six-week roadmap, covering key areas like:

  • Week 1: Introduction to affiliate marketing and setting up your business.
  • Week 2: Understanding paid traffic (Facebook, Google Ads, YouTube, etc.).
  • Week 3: Creating effective ads and landing pages.
  • Week 4: Copywriting techniques to boost conversions.
  • Week 5: Scaling your campaigns and automating your income.
  • Week 6: Advanced strategies for long-term success.

The lessons are delivered through video tutorials, case studies, and step-by-step guides. You also get access to live training sessions and a private community for support.

What Other's Are Saying: Real User Reviews

It’s always useful to hear what real users think about a program before investing in it. Here’s a quick summary of common feedback from Trustpilot, Reddit, and online forums:

Positive Reviews:

Many users appreciate the step-by-step approach, the detailed training on paid advertising, and the community support.

Common Complaints:

Some beginners find the paid advertising aspect expensive and risky, especially since mistakes in ad campaigns can drain your budget quickly.

Overall, experienced marketers tend to get the most value from SAS, while beginners often feel the learning curve is steep.

Pros of the Super Affiliate System

  • Comprehensive Training – Covers everything from beginner to advanced techniques.
  • Focus on Paid Advertising – Learn how to run ads effectively on platforms like Facebook, Google, and YouTube.
  • Step-by-Step Guidance – Structured modules make it easier to follow.
  • Live Training & Community Support – Get help when you need it.
  • Real-Life Case Studies – See examples of successful campaigns.

Cons of the Super Affiliate System

  • Expensive – The course costs around $997-$2,497, which may be too much for beginners.
  • Relies Heavily on Paid Ads – If you don’t have money to invest in ads, this course may not be suitable.
  • Not Beginner-Friendly in Some Areas – Paid advertising has a learning curve, and mistakes can be costly.
  • No Free Trial – You must pay upfront to access the content.

How to Get Started with Affiliate Marketing (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’re new to affiliate marketing and unsure where to start, here’s a simple roadmap:

  1. Learn the Basics – Understand what affiliate marketing is and how it works.
  2. Choose a Niche – Pick a topic you’re interested in (e.g., fitness, tech, personal finance).
  3. Set Up a Website – This will be your platform to promote products.
  4. Create Quality Content – Write blog posts, reviews, or guides to attract visitors.
  5. Drive Traffic – Use free methods (SEO, social media) or paid ads (if you have a budget).
  6. Monetise & Optimise – Track what works, tweak your strategy, and scale up!

If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly way to get started without spending money on ads,

Wealthy Affiliate provides free training and tools to help you set up your first website and start earning commissions.

Wealthy Affiliate

Common Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid

Spending too much on ads before understanding them – If you’re not careful, paid ads can become costly mistakes rather than profitable investments.

Promoting the wrong products – Choosing low-quality or irrelevant products can hurt your credibility.

Expecting overnight success – Affiliate marketing takes time. Stay consistent and keep learning.

Not tracking your progress – Without tracking, you won’t know what’s working and what needs improvement.

Comparison: Super Affiliate System vs. Wealthy Affiliate

Both SAS and WA teach affiliate marketing, but they take very different approaches:

Feature

Super Affiliate System

Wealthy Affiliate

Cost

$997-$2,497 (one-time fee)

Free starter plan, Premium from $49/month

Training Focus

Paid advertising

Free & organic traffic (SEO, blogging, social media)

Beginner-Friendly?

Requires ad budget, steeper learning curve

Step-by-step, great for beginners

Community Support

Private Facebook group

Large, active WA community & live support

Website Hosting?

No, you need to buy separately

Included with WA Premium

Long-Term Strategy

Paid ads for quick results

Free traffic for sustainable growth

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need technical skills for Super Affiliate System?
A: No, but you do need to learn how to use paid advertising platforms effectively.

Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: Results vary—some see earnings within weeks, while others take months or even years to build profitable campaigns.

Q: What if I don’t have money for paid ads?
A: If you prefer a low-cost, beginner-friendly approach, Wealthy Affiliate teaches how to grow a business using free traffic methods like SEO and blogging.

And Finally…

Affiliate marketing can be a great way to build an online income, but choosing the right training program is key. If you have a budget for ads and are comfortable with a steep learning curve, the Super Affiliate System might work for you.

However, if you’re looking for a beginner-friendly, budget-friendly approach, Wealthy Affiliate is an excellent option to get started without financial risk.

Want to start for free? Join Wealthy Affiliate today and explore the training before committing to anything. Click on the image below to sign up for free.

Wealthy Affiliate