Pixabay is a popular stock images and video website that allows users to search, use and contribute content to their commons-based media platform. As an open media platform, Pixabay relies on volunteer content contributors to upload and share their creative works under a public domain license. This allows anyone to freely use the Pixabay content for both commercial and non-commercial purposes without attribution.
While Pixabay aims to provide free high-quality stock content to all, they also rely on volunteer content writers to provide relevant keywords, descriptions and tags to maximize discoverability and usability of the images/videos on their platform. This makes content writing for Pixabay an invaluable activity that helps increase engagement and traffic on the site. Some key things to keep in mind when writing content for Pixabay are:
Research Thoroughly: As a content writer for Pixabay, it is important to do comprehensive research about the image/video you are writing content for. Understand the visual elements, technical aspects, context and any other relevant details. Research can include looking at similar content on Pixabay or other stock sites to understand prevalent keywords, tags and descriptions. This comprehensive understanding will help you write optimized, accurate and helpful content.
Use Relevant Keywords: The keywords are one of the most important aspects of Pixabay content as they help images/videos show up in relevant searches. It is important to include 5-10 specific, long-tail keywords that accurately describe the visual elements and context of the content. Focus keywords should include related terms, synonyms, adjectives to maximize relevance. Check keyword popularity/demand using keyword tools.
Provide Helpful Descriptions: Along with keywords, write 2-3 well-crafted sentences to describe what the image/video is about at a glance. Mention prominent visual elements, context, mood, colors, objects etc. in an engaging, crisp manner. Descriptions act as summaries to help users understand if the content is suitable for their needs at first view. Avoid unnecessary filler words.
Use Relevant Tags: In addition to keywords and descriptions, utilize 15-25 specific tags that expand upon the context and give additional details about the content. Tags could highlight attributes like art medium, artistic style, emotions evoked, occasions, activities shown etc. This levels up the discoverability through long-tail, niche searches.
Maintain Consistency: Follow a consistent writing structure, terminology and tone across all the content you contribute. Maintain accuracy by double checking details. Ensure keywords, descriptions and tags complement each other to provide a coherent understanding of the content. Consistency streamlines the experience for users browsing through related content assets.
Optimize for Searchability: Write all elements keeping search engine ranking factors and user behavior in mind. Use keyword density, phrase matching and LSI keywords techniques to make the content optimized for searchability and relevant for user searches. Headings, bolding/italicizing also aid discoverability in image/video previews.
Adhere to Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with Pixabay’s content writing guidelines like character limits, formatting rules, prohibited terms etc. and strictly follow them to ensure swift approval of contributions. Reach out to the Pixabay support team for any clarifications on writing standards if required. Well-written, appropriately formatted content aligns with platform best practices.
Provide Credible Information: As an open platform relying on volunteers, Pixabay content must be accurate, truthful and credible. Fact check details, do not plagiarize from other sources and get necessary permissions if sharing third party creative works. Credible information protects Pixabay’s reputation as a reliable stock content destination and contributor recognition.
Stay Updated: Periodically check Pixabay blog/announcements for any updates to guidelines, features or writing tips. The algorithm and user search behavior evolve over time. Stating updated with industry best practices keeps content optimized and engagement high. Content writers can also provide feedback to Pixabay about needed updates.
Review Regularly: Set a schedule to regularly review older contributed Pixabay content and update it based in latest optimization techniques, fixes to any errors, addition of new keywords/tags etc. A content audit keeps earlier contributions relevant in rapidly changing environments. Engaging in editorial updates also shows continued commitment towards the platform.
These are some of the key aspects creative professionals must keep in mind while contributing high-quality, optimized content to the Pixabay stock library. Following best practices can help maximize discoverability and usability of visual works while strengthening the platform catalogue. Volunteer content writing is a valuable effort for Pixabay that helps boost their repository of royalty-free assets.