Writing strong descriptions for your Media Gallery

Virtual Tour's AI Search feature leverage descriptions in you media gallery to return content to visitors. Having strong descriptions will help users find content that matters to them. Consider the below tips when writing descriptions for your photos, videos and panoramas. 

Be Descriptive and Specific:

• Clearly describe the supplemental Media photos/videos and include relevant context.
• Include specific details like the name of the building, event, or individuals (if applicable).
• Example: "Students engaging in a group study session at the Smith Library."
• Example: "Freshmen during orientation week participate in team-building exercises on the Quad."

Keep It Concise:

• Keep captions brief and to the point.
• Aim for one to two sentences that effectively convey the key information.
• Example: "Students relax in the campus gardens between classes."

Use Active Voice:

• Write captions in active voice to make them more engaging and dynamic.
• Example: "Professor Smith demonstrates advanced chemistry techniques in the lab."

Highlight Unique Features:

• Focus on what makes the subject of the photo or video unique to the institution.
• Mention any special features or historical significance.
• Example: “The state-of-the-art robotics lab in the Engineering Building offers students hands-on learning opportunities.”

Focus on Benefits:

• Emphasize how the features or activities shown in the photo benefit students.
• Highlight learning opportunities, community engagement, or support services.
• Example: "Career services hosts frequent networking events, connecting students with industry professionals."

Use Keywords for SEO and AI Personalization:

• Include relevant keywords that your tour visitors might search for.
• This helps improve the visibility and AI search results for the virtual tour.
• Example: "Modern student housing with private study rooms and communal lounges." 

Incorporate Quotes When Appropriate:

• If the photo includes specific members of the institution or organization, consider adding a brief quote to give a personal touch.
• Example: “Senior Jessica Perez: ‘The support from the faculty here has been incredible.’”

Tell a Story About a Student or Alumni:

• Share a brief success story or highlight a student’s journey to provide a personal touch and inspire prospective students.
• Include key details such as the student's background, challenges overcome, achievements, and future aspirations.
• Example: "Maria, a first-generation college student, found her passion for environmental science through our sustainability program. With the support of dedicated faculty and access to cutting-edge research facilities, she secured an internship with a leading environmental organization and is now preparing for graduate school."

Align with Brand Voice:

• Ensure the tone and language used in the captions align with your overall brand voice and messaging.
• Example: "Our vibrant campus community is at the heart of everything we do."

Be Inclusive Without Being Exploitative:

• Highlight the diverse and inclusive nature of the institution thoughtfully.
• Avoid tokenism and ensure that all individuals and groups are represented authentically and respectfully.
• Example: "Our campus events celebrate a wide array of cultural traditions, creating a vibrant and inclusive community."