Layout of multi-purpose status update box

Question

I'm building a status update box similar to the one found on Facebook and Google+. Mine will allow for multiple types of posts such as status updates, code snippets, images, projects and applications. I'm just looking for suggestions on the layout. I do like the Google+ layout with grey icons at the bottom right representing the different types of posts, but I'm not sure how clear it would be what you can post. My options are a bit unique. Facebook labels their choices, but I feel they have more of an outdated look with small colored icons. So I'm looking for a combination of the two where I can use icons, but somehow make it obvious what can be posted. I'd also like to possibly incorporate the arrow keys on the keyboard to choose what you're posting.

This is what I have so far and I really don't like how it looks.

Answer 1

How about a colour coded difference. Klicking in one would give the input field another colour. Or hovering over "image" would give an example text that appears in the input box and dissapears when you are "mouse out"

Answer 2

I feel using the image icons make for a nice visual and minimalist look. Out of curiosity, people do tend to hover over to see if there's any tooltip to explain the required functionality.

You could also have a little icon on the corner which can "Toggle" the labels with the images to allow users to hide/show the labels if required.

This way you can use both the ideas and allow visitors a little personalization in addition to using well perceived conventions as little icons that they are already familiar with.

Answer 3

If you're feeling ambitious (assuming this isn't something you've already got on the roadmap) you could have your update box auto-recognize the type of content being posted, and highlight the corresponding icon:

^{download bmml source – Wireframes created with Balsamiq Mockups}