A guide to better ministry photos: Part 2

We recently shared some best practices for ministry photos that can lead to more prayer for you and your ministry. This is the second of a two-part series on how to create effective photos for prayer requests and newsletters. In case you missed it, click here to read part 1.

1. Mobilizing and receiving prayer is more important than sharing the perfect photo

While ministry photos can be very powerful, nothing is more powerful than God’s work through the Holy Spirit and prayer. As Jesus said, “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” (John 15:7).

If you’re pressed for time, prioritize getting your prayer request out rather than waiting until you have an ideal photo to share. Sometimes a simple, two- or three-sentence prayer request can result in more prayer than a longer prayer request with photos.

2. Photo taking and sharing is a ministry opportunity!

Sometimes, it might feel inconvenient or awkward to take a photo while engaged in ministry activities. However, the very act of taking – and sharing – photos can build stronger relationships with the people you are serving!

Think about how you feel when a friend sends you a photo of a moment or memory you shared together. This simple act of sharing communicates how much your friend values your relationship and how important you are to them.

So don’t be shy to take and share photos with the people you serve. It’s an easy, fun way to “love one another with brotherly affection” and actively “show honor” (Romans 12:10).

3. Make a collage or add some text

Ministry partners often don’t have the time to click through long photo albums. Combining multiple photos into a collage can help you communicate ministry stories more efficiently and attractively. You can also add a Bible verse or caption to explain what’s in the photo.

There are many tools for creating collages and adding text to images. Adobe Express and Canva are two tools that offer free individual plans and clear privacy policies. They also both offer free organizational plans for qualifying non-profit organizations (non-profit information: Adobe Express and Canva).

Tip: Be mindful of privacy and security when sharing photos with your ministry partners. You can use photo editing tools to blur or pixelate faces, or to add black censor bars to cover sensitive subjects’ eyes and nose area.