Great photos can mean the difference between a quick sale and an item that sits for months. Professional-quality photos build trust and showcase your items in their best light.
Equipment You Already Have
Your Smartphone is Enough
Modern smartphones have excellent cameras. You don't need expensive equipment to take great photos.
Use Natural Light
Position your items near a large window with indirect sunlight. Avoid harsh direct sunlight that creates shadows.
Essential Photography Techniques
1. Clean and Prepare Your Items
- •Clean thoroughly before photographing
- •Remove lint, dust, and fingerprints
- •Iron clothing and remove wrinkles
- •Polish jewelry and accessories
2. Choose the Right Background
- •Use a plain white or neutral background
- •Avoid busy patterns that distract from the item
- •Hang a white sheet or use a poster board as backdrop
3. Take Multiple Angles
- •Front view
- •Back view
- •Side profiles
- •Close-ups of details, logos, or tags
- •Any flaws or wear areas
Lighting Mastery
Golden Hour Photography
The hour after sunrise or before sunset provides warm, flattering light.
Overcast Day Advantage
Cloudy days provide perfect diffused lighting for product photography.
Indoor Lighting Setup
- •Position item near a large window
- •Use white foam board to reflect light and eliminate shadows
- •Turn off artificial lights to avoid color casts
Composition Tips
Fill the Frame
Make sure your item takes up most of the photo. Buyers want to see details clearly.
Use the Rule of Thirds
Position your item along imaginary lines that divide the frame into thirds.
Show Scale
Include everyday objects (like a coin or ruler) to help buyers understand size.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Poor Lighting
Dark, grainy photos suggest low quality and reduce buyer confidence.
Cluttered Backgrounds
Busy backgrounds distract from your item and look unprofessional.
Too Few Photos
Buyers want to see every angle. Provide 5-8 high-quality photos minimum.
Not Showing Flaws
Always photograph any damage or wear. Honesty builds trust and prevents disputes.
Advanced Techniques
Flat Lay Photography
Perfect for clothing, accessories, and small items. Lay items flat and shoot from directly above.
Lifestyle Shots
Show items being worn or used to help buyers visualize ownership.
Detail Shots
Capture texture, materials, and craftsmanship up close.
Photo Editing Basics
Adjust Brightness and Contrast
Most phones have built-in editing tools to enhance photos.
Crop for Impact
Remove unnecessary background and focus on the item.
Color Correction
Ensure colors are true to life to prevent buyer disappointment.
Building Your Photography Skills
Practice with different items and lighting conditions. Study photos of similar items that sold quickly and notice what makes them appealing.
Remember: great photos don't just show what you're selling - they tell a story and help buyers imagine owning your item. Invest time in photography, and watch your sales improve dramatically.
