More and more in our web design projects we are applying large single images to page backgrounds to create a three dimensional appearance or a less “boxy” feel.

Viewers tend to comment on my own Twitter profile page where I’ve tried a few background images, and the overwhelming majority is in favor of organic imagery. My current profile showcases a macro shot of some budding bulbs in our office’s front yard from late spring: twitter.com/jsemerson. The page content simply floats on top of this vibrant image, giving you the feeling that the page is richer and deeper than it could be with a pattern or color.

Another one of our recent site launches exemplifies the effect that a spanning background image can have on a layout: pigeonforgetrack.com. Here the image is a computer-generated gradient with illustrated tire tracks. The background makes the homepage feel like it is part of the viewing window, and more than a box displaying information.

Utilizing great photography and CSS, we’re able to help our clients achieve a dynamic effect with their websites. As web trends move toward rich media, we’re finding new ways to make a bigger splash with bigger photography.