Original Images vs Stock Photos: What AI Trust Algorithms Prefer
Original images are powerful Experience signals in EEAT—they prove you had physical access to what you're reviewing. Stock photos and manufacturer images don't demonstrate experience—anyone can download them. AI systems increasingly distinguish between authentic visual evidence and generic imagery.
Image Strategy
- • Original photos prove ownership and usage
- • Phone photos are fine—authenticity beats quality
- • Stock photos don't count as experience evidence
Why Original Images Matter #
Stock Photo
Generic product on white background
Anyone can use this. No experience proof.
Original Photo
Product on your desk, your environment visible
Clearly your photo. Proves ownership.
How AI Identifies Image Type #
- Alt text: “My photo of...” vs generic descriptions
- Context: Unique environments, personal spaces
- Metadata: EXIF data, timestamps
- Reverse search: Is this image used elsewhere?
What Original Images to Include #
Product Reviews
- Product in your environment (on your desk, in your hand)
- Unboxing shots
- Detail close-ups of features you discuss
- Before/after or comparison shots
- Wear/usage photos after extended use
Software/App Reviews
- Screenshots of your actual dashboard
- Your real results (blur sensitive data)
- Feature demonstrations
- Error messages if discussing issues
Quality Requirements #
Original images don't need to be professional:
- Clear enough: Subject visible and in focus
- Relevant: Shows what you're discussing
- Authentic: Clearly from your environment
They don't need:
- Professional lighting
- Expensive cameras
- Perfect composition
Product Manager at Seenos.ai. Pioneer in AEO research since 2024, exploring the convergence of SEO and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization). Led multiple AI-powered content optimization projects that achieved 300%+ citation increases in ChatGPT and Perplexity.