Radio’s Visual Problem: Why Our Images Need a Makeover

Let’s be real: radio stations need to step up their image game. We’ve all seen it — images going out with logos plastered everywhere, stretched beyond recognition, or just looking like someone hit the “90s Photoshop Effects” button. The worst is when you see these coming from big brands. This isn’t just a minor issue; it’s holding us back, especially when visual-first competitors like Spotify and Apple are out there looking sleek and modern.

1. The Photoshop Problem

Too often, radio stations rely on anyone who knows their way around Photoshop to handle all image needs. But knowing how to use the software doesn’t automatically make someone a designer. There’s a huge difference between knowing the tools and creating visuals that stand out. We can’t afford for our stuff to look like it was made as a high school project when we’re competing with polished, professional visuals from literally everyone else in the entertainment industry.

2. Enough with the Logo Overload

This one is big. Radio is still stuck in this old habit of slapping a logo on everything. We don’t need logos screaming at us from every corner of an image. It’s especially bad on social media; too many logos make everything look like a cluttered ad, not content someone wants to stop and check out. If your design is good and your brand style is strong, people will know it’s your station without the “look at me” approach. Also- if they are looking at you on socials, you know your logo is right there in the profile image, right?

3. Stop Stretching Your Images

It’s shocking how many times I still see images that are stretched out or pixelated. We’re not in the dial-up days anymore. Basic things like image resolution and sizing should be automatic by now. It’s a small detail, but it’s the difference between looking polished or looking like a throwback to 1999.

4. Look Around — Everyone Else is Doing This Better

This might sting, but every other player in the game — streaming services, podcasts, satellite radio, and even influencers — are all nailing their visuals. If we want radio to stay relevant, we’ve got to up our standards here. When managers or directors let subpar visuals go out, it isn’t just their station that looks outdated; it reflects on the entire industry. We’ve got to start thinking of ourselves as part of today’s media landscape, not an old relic.

5. Trends Change; So Should We

Visual trends come and go, and we’ve got to keep up. Drop shadows and flashy effects might’ve looked sharp a decade ago, but they don’t cut it now. Your images should say, “we’re fresh, we’re relevant,” not “we’re still hanging onto MySpace.” By staying current, you’re showing your audience that you’re part of the here and now, not just reminiscing about the good old days.

6. Images Are Your Brand’s First Impression

When someone scrolls past your station’s post, the first thing they notice isn’t your witty caption — it’s the image. This is the “welcome mat” to your brand. If it looks slapped together or dated, why would anyone want to stick around? Visuals are part of the package, and it’s time we treated them like they matter just as much as our audio.

7. It’s Time for a Visual Overhaul, Radio

Honestly, this is such an easy win for radio. We have the tools and talent out there; it’s just a matter of giving visuals the priority they deserve. We need to start thinking of images as a crucial part of connecting with our audience, not just something we tack on at the end. Better visuals don’t just help your station; they elevate radio as a whole. Let’s give people a reason to be excited about our brands, not a reason to scroll past.

P.S. Oh yeah — You need help with this? It might be helping look at your stuff, and give feedback/consult. Maybe I can link you with someone that can make you look better visually. You don't need someone in house, especially to make things LOOK good. There are talented people everywhere. It's a gig economy. How can I help? email me. bo@disruptivesoul.com