Still of Ben Affleck as Batman Flexes Social Media Marketing Muscle

Two seemingly ordinary pictures set the Web ablaze in recent weeks, serving up priceless media attention for properties with plenty of cash to commit to traditional marketing moves.

Late last month we saw a simple photograph of actors huddling in a large room to explore the script for the next Star Wars installment. The image became a sensation, confirming casting rumors and letting fans know of the new actors joining the franchise.

One picture. Countless social media shares.

Today, Warner Bros. took its turn using social media to its advantage. Director Zack Snyder sent out an image of Ben Affleck in full Batman gear standing in front of the latest Batmobile. The still is our first official glimpse of Batman vs. Superman, the sequel to the 2013 hit Man of Steel hitting theaters in 2016.

Trailers and teaser trailers used to be the best way to gin up interest in a film property. Now, all it takes is a simple photograph to coax social media users to do the film studio’s bidding for them.

Follow Christian Toto on Twitter @TotoMovies