AR photo technology superimposes digital images onto the real world, allowing consumers to visualize products in a context that resonates with them. This innovation is particularly valuable in marketing, where the ability to engage customers visually can significantly impact purchasing decisions. Here are some tips, compelled by the Stories AR team, on how to create augmented reality product photos and how to use them to boost sales.
How AR Photo Works in Marketing
AR photo technology uses a combination of computer vision, simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), and depth tracking to create a seamless integration of digital content with the physical environment. Consumers can use their smartphones or tablets to view products in 3D, enabling them to see how items would look in their own space or on themselves.
Applications of AR in Marketing
1. Fashion and Accessories: Brands like Zara and Warby Parker utilize AR to allow customers to try on clothing and eyewear virtually. For example, Warby Parker’s app enables users to see how different glasses look on their faces, increasing engagement and reducing the likelihood of returns.
2. Home Décor: Companies such as IKEA have pioneered AR with their app, IKEA Place, which lets users visualize furniture in their homes before purchase. Users can take a photo of their living space and overlay 3D models of furniture items, leading to more informed buying decisions.
3. Beauty Products: Sephora employs AR through its Virtual Artist feature, where customers can apply makeup virtually using their phone cameras. This interactive experience not only boosts customer engagement but also drives sales; Sephora reported that products featured in AR experiences had a 94% higher conversion rate.
4. Automotive: Brands like Audi have introduced AR apps that allow potential buyers to explore car features in 3D. Customers can see how different models look from various angles and even customize features, enhancing the buying experience.
Boosting Sales Through AR
AR product photos can significantly boost sales for several reasons:
• Enhanced Customer Experience: By allowing customers to visualize products in real-life scenarios, AR increases confidence in purchasing decisions. For instance, L’Oreal reported an 11% increase in online sales after integrating AR into their virtual try-on experiences.
• Reduced Return Rates: When customers can see how a product fits or looks in their environment, they are less likely to return items. This is particularly evident in the fashion industry, where AR has been shown to reduce return rates by up to 30%.
• Memorable Marketing: According to Nielsen, ads featuring AR elements are remembered by 70% of consumers, making them more effective than traditional advertising methods.
Areas of High Demand for AR Product Photos
1. Retail: The retail sector is seeing high demand for AR applications, with brands like Nike using AR to help consumers find the right shoe size through their Nike Fit app. This has led to improved customer satisfaction and reduced returns.
2. Real Estate: AR is increasingly used in real estate marketing, allowing potential buyers to visualize properties through virtual tours. Companies like Matterport provide AR solutions that enable users to explore properties remotely.
3. Consumer Electronics: Brands such as Samsung use AR to showcase their products, allowing customers to see how new devices fit into their lives.
Examples of Specific Photos
• IKEA Place: Users can take a photo of their living room and overlay a 3D model of a sofa, helping them visualize how it fits into the space.
• Warby Parker: The app allows users to take a selfie and try on different styles of glasses virtually, providing an engaging shopping experience.
• Sephora Virtual Artist: Users can upload their photo or use live video to apply different makeup looks, showcasing how products will appear on their skin tone.
By leveraging augmented reality in marketing strategies, brands are not only enhancing customer experiences but also driving significant sales growth across various sectors. With the Stories AR platform you can create your first augmented reality product photo for free, check the details here.
