Just a few hours ago, yet another Facebook feature was released — embedding photos on comments. It’s a no-brainer for Facebook users. Instead of attaching a link to a photo which creates a preview (sometimes this doesn’t work 100% of the time), you can now just upload an image.
But how can we leverage this new capability beyond personal use with friends?
Event Audience Engagement
This feature can be used during virtual events. As an organiser of the Social Media Club Auckland event, participants can share creative photos to respond and engage in discussions. A limitation worth noting: this feature hadn’t yet been rolled out to Facebook pages, potentially limiting brand usage.
Beyond the Foursquare Check-In
Businesses can use photo comments to increase engagement. For example, cafes could invite customers to post pictures of favourite foods, or poll patrons about weekend specials through visual responses.
Showcasing a Portfolio
Creative professionals — photographers, graphic designers, illustrators — could use photo comments to display their work. A thread about “the best beach pictures you’ve ever taken” could generate numerous photo submissions.
Product Recommendations
We trust what our friends suggest when we’re looking for a product or service. Photos can communicate more effectively than text alone when recommending hotels, phones, or clothing.
What other ideas do you have? Share them on my Facebook wall.