So, you’re diving into the world of product photography? Awesome! For any beginner photographer, nailing the perfect product shot can feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t have a fancy studio setup at your disposal.
But here’s some good news: product photography doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. You don’t need a professional studio or the latest high-tech gear to nail it.
What you need are some practical product photography tips and tricks for beginners, a little creativity, and a whole lot of patience and practice. As a product post-production company with over a decade of experience, we know about the common struggles of product photographers.
This is why we curated this article: to provide you with all the practical product photography tips you need to get your products looking as amazing on-screen as they are in person. Let’s get started:
Best product photography tips for beginners
Product photography isn’t just about pretty pictures. It’s a powerful photography approach that can make or break a sale. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned seller, the way you present your products can captivate customers and drive conversions.
Here are the best product photography tips and tricks to help you capture amazing product images:
1. Select the right camera
First things first—don’t stress about the camera. If you’ve got a DSLR or mirrorless camera, that’s awesome, but if you’re using your smartphone, that works too! Honestly, a modern smartphone can capture some pretty fantastic product shots. It’s not so much about deposit pulsa tanpa potongan having the most expensive camera; it’s about how you use it.
That being said, if you’re going the DSLR route, try to get familiar with the basic settings like ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. These will give you control over things like lighting and focus, which are key in product photography. Not sure where to start? No worries. We’ll get into product photography tips for settings in a bit!
2. Use a stable surface or shooting table
Nothing kills a good shot faster than a shaky setup. You don’t need a professional studio table—a clean, stable surface will do the trick. You can use everything from dining tables to DIY setups using cardboard boxes.
The key is making sure your product doesn’t move around during the shoot. If you’re working with small products like jewelry, a raised surface or small table can make things much easier to shoot.
3. Invest in a high-quality tripod
If you’re thinking, “Do I really need a tripod?”—the answer is YES! This might be one of the most straightforward product photography tips; don’t overlook it! Even the steadiest hands will struggle to hold a camera completely still, and that’s how you end up with blurry images. Tripods are the unsung heroes of product photography.
They keep everything stable, allowing you to focus (literally) on the details. The good news? You don’t need to drop a ton of cash—there are plenty of affordable tripods for both cameras and smartphones; just make sure they are made from durable materials with some weight.
4. Choose lenses wisely
If you’re using a professional DSLR or mirrorless camera, picking the right lens can really up your game. For most products, a 50mm lens is your go-to. It’s versatile, gives great clarity, and doesn’t distort the image.
Want to capture those intricate details in a piece of jewelry or craft? This is the product photography tip for you: Invest in a macro lens, you will not regret the decision.
And if you’re using a smartphone? Consider buying a high-quality clip-on lens. They can simulate the effects of pro lenses without costing a fortune!
5. Pick an appropriate background
You have probably heard that product photography tips countless times before. Again, we need to emphasize that the importance of having the right background for product photos is not something you can ignore. You want your product to be the star, not your cluttered kitchen counter.
A clean, neutral background like white or light gray is usually the safest bet. It’s simple, it doesn’t distract from the product, and it’s what customers expect from most eCommerce platforms.
Of course, you can get creative with backgrounds if you’re shooting lifestyle images, but make sure they complement—not overshadow—your product.
6. Ensure your backdrop is wrinkle-free
Wrinkled backdrops? Big no-no. A wrinkled cloth or paper backdrop can make even the most beautiful product look unprofessional. Before you start shooting, take a few extra minutes to smooth out any wrinkles. If you’re using fabric, give it a quick iron or steam. For paper or vinyl, make sure it’s securely taped down to avoid creases. This small yet crucial step will make a big difference in the final product photos.
7. Achieve proper lighting
This is one of the most important product photography tips to follow, to capture the best possible product photos. When choosing what light to use, natural light is your best friend, especially if you’re just starting out.
Find a window with indirect light and set up your products nearby. You want soft, even lighting that avoids harsh shadows. If you’re shooting in a dim room or need more control, consider getting a couple of affordable softbox lights or LED panels.
These will help mimic that natural light look without creating too much contrast.
Pro Tip: Never mix lighting types. If you’re using natural light, don’t add a yellow indoor lamp. It’ll mess with your color balance and make product editing a nightmare later.
8. Incorporate reflectors and diffusers
You’ve probably noticed that sometimes one side of your product looks too dark, or you’re getting weird shadows. Incorporate reflectors and diffusers in your photography session, following this product photography tip will solve these issues.
A reflector (you can even use a piece of white foam board) will bounce light back onto your product, evening out those shadows. A diffuser (like a thin white sheet or special fabric) softens harsh light, making your product look way more flattering.
You don’t have to spend much on these tools—a DIY reflector or a plain white sheet can do wonders!
9. Adjust your camera settings
Manual settings may sound intimidating, but learning them will give you way more control over your shots. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Aperture: A lower f-stop (like f/1.8) blurs the background and highlights the product. For wider shots where everything needs to be sharp, use a higher f-stop (like f/8 or f/11).
- ISO: Keep your ISO low (100-200) to avoid grainy images. Boost it in low light, but not too much—too high an ISO can add unwanted noise.
- Shutter Speed: The faster your shutter speed (e.g., 1/200), the more you freeze motion. For product shots, go slower in low light, but remember to use a tripod to avoid blur.
Play around with these settings and get comfortable with them. It will take your product photography to the next level!
10. Use a gray card for color accuracy
Ever notice that your product’s colors don’t look quite right in photos? That’s usually a white-balance issue. A gray card helps fix that by giving your camera a neutral reference point to adjust the colors. Just place the gray card in the shot, snap a picture, and then adjust your camera’s white balance settings to match it.
This way, your product colors will come out looking true-to-life, which is essential if you don’t want customers complaining that the “red” dress they bought is actually pink. Following this product photography tip will help you significantly reduce the return rate.
But remember, don’t let the colors overpower the product itself. Keep it simple and make sure the product remains the focal point.
11. Eliminate Distractions from the frame
This is one of the most overlooked product photography tips. You’ve got the perfect product setup, but wait—what’s that? A coffee mug in the corner of the shot? A wrinkled cloth sneaking in? These little things can steal the spotlight from your product and make your photos look messy.
Before snapping away, scan your frame for anything that doesn’t belong. Remove clutter, stray cords, or even a tiny shadow that shouldn’t be there. The focus should be 100% on your product, with no distractions competing for attention.
A clean, simple frame creates a more professional look and keeps your customer’s eye exactly where it should be.
12. Shoot in RAW format for flexibility
Always photoshoot in RAW format if your camera allows it. JPEG images compress a lot of data, which limits your options when editing. RAW, on the other hand, keeps all the data, giving you far more control over details like exposure, color, and shadows in post-production.
This is a huge lifesaver if you need to correct mistakes later, like adjusting the lighting or fixing the color. Sure, RAW files are larger, but that extra file size is worth it for the flexibility and quality you get in return.
13. Embrace the rule of thirds in composition
Want an easy product photography tip to improve your composition? Utilize the rule of thirds. Imagine the frame divided into a grid with two vertical and two horizontal lines.
Place the most important elements of your product at the intersections of these lines. This rule can help you create a more balanced and visually appealing shot.
For example, place your product off-center and leave some space in the direction it “faces.” It feels more natural and gives a sense of movement. Many cameras and smartphones have a built-in grid overlay, so turn that on and see how it transforms your compositions!
14. Highlight intricate details
When photographing products with intricate details—think jewelry, watches, or textured fabrics—make sure to capture those features up close. Macro photography is perfect for this. It allows you to zoom in on fine details that may otherwise be missed in a standard shot.
Don’t be afraid to take a few extreme close-ups, especially if your product has unique craftsmanship. Customers love seeing the texture, stitching, or sparkle of your product up close, as it makes them feel more confident in what they’re buying.
15. Apply color theory in your shots
This product photography tip is so important that we can’t stress this enough. From selecting the right backdrop to choosing the color temperature for your lights, knowing about the color theory will make your product photography journey much smoother.
You will know exactly what colored background to use, which colored props will work better with your products, and more!
Color isn’t just about accuracy—it’s also about emotion. When setting up your product shots, think about how colors work together. Want your product to stand out? Use complementary colors (like blue and orange) in your background or props.
Want a calm, harmonious vibe? Consider experimenting with analogous colors, which are colors that are next to each other on the color wheel, such as blue and green.
16. Use props sparingly and thoughtfully
Props can either enhance your product photos or completely overshadow them. Here’s a pro product photography tip: less is more. Props should enhance your product, not distract from it.
For instance, if you’re shooting a pair of sneakers, a basketball can work as a prop to evoke action. But don’t overdo it—your product should always be the hero of the shot.
Also, make sure your props are on-brand. If you’re selling eco-friendly products, props like plants or wooden textures can complement your brand identity. Keep everything in harmony with your product’s purpose.
17. Experiment with different angles
Don’t settle for just one angle. Explore your product from every side—above, below, head-on, and at a 45-degree angle. Certain products look completely different when viewed from different perspectives, and experimenting with angles is one of the best product photography tips for capturing its best features.
For example, shooting a chair from the front will showcase its design, but an angle from the side might highlight its craftsmanship or materials. Offer variety in your shots so customers get a full picture of what they’re buying.
18. Tell a compelling story through your shots
Great product photos don’t just show the product—they tell a story. When shooting, think about how you can set the scene to evoke emotion. Is your product something luxurious? Then, use rich textures and soft lighting. Is it playful? Consider bright colors and dynamic angles.
Storytelling through your images can tap into the lifestyle your product represents. Show it in use, surrounded by elements that relate to its purpose. This emotional connection can play a crucial role in convincing shoppers to make a purchase.
19. Incorporate branding elements
Your product photography is a chance to reinforce your brand. If you’ve got a strong visual identity (and you should!), think about how to weave it into your photos. Whether it’s a signature color scheme, a recurring prop, or a specific style of lighting, keep things consistent across all your images.
Branding in your product photos builds recognition and trust with your audience. Think about Apple’s minimalist white background shots—it’s part of their branding. Consistency helps customers instantly recognize your brand, even before they see your logo.
20. Maintain consistency across shots
In eCommerce product photography, consistency is absolutely crucial. Your product photos need to have a uniform look and feel, especially if you’re shooting multiple items in the same category. This will help your online store look professional and cohesive.
The easiest way to maintain consistency? Set up a shooting template—same lighting, background, camera settings, and angles for every product. If you’re using props, make sure they complement all the products in the same way.
Don’t underestimate how much consistency in your product images can boost your brand’s credibility and trust.
21. Handle reflective items with care
Photoshooting reflective items—jewelry, glassware, watches—can feel like a nightmare. They pick up every little thing: fingerprints, smudges, even your reflection! Don’t worry, though—there are a few product photography tips you can use to work around this.
First, always handle reflective items with gloves to avoid smudges. Use soft, diffused lighting to minimize harsh reflections. You can even create a DIY lightbox using white cardboard to bounce the light softly.
Also, be mindful of your own reflection and the camera’s reflection in the product. Shoot from slightly above or at an angle to avoid this. If you’re photographing shiny items like watches or silverware, polarizing filters can help reduce glare, too.
22. Try focus stacking for depth
For products that need every detail sharp (think: jewelry or intricate items), focus stacking is a great technique. Here’s how it works: take several shots of the product, each focusing on different parts, then blend them together in post-processing to create a single image where everything is perfectly sharp.
It might sound a bit technical, but most software, like Photoshop, can help you automate the process. Focus stacking ensures that both the front and back of your product are crisp and detailed, making your photos look ultra-professional.
23. Capture multiple photos for variety
Don’t rely on just one perfect shot. Take multiple photos from different angles, distances, and with varied lighting. Customers want to see the product from every perspective. Giving them a variety of images builds trust and helps them make an informed decision.
Also, keep in mind that what works for one product may not work for another. Experiment with different angles until you find what highlights your product best. Offering a range of shots, from close-ups to wide views, will make your product page much more engaging.
24. Shoot with post-production in mind
While it’s ideal to get the perfect shot in camera, sometimes you’ll need to rely on post-production to fine-tune your images. One of our favorite product photography tips is to plan ahead for editing.
For example, shoot on a pure white background if you know you’ll need to remove the background later.
Also, be aware of any color cast caused by lighting that you’ll need to correct with product retouching. Keeping post-production in mind as you shoot will save you tons of time later!
25. Learn from successful brands in your field
Take a look at the big players in your industry. How do they photograph their products? What kind of lighting do they use? What angles? While you don’t want to copy them outright, you can draw inspiration from brands that have already nailed their product photography game.
Analyze their consistency, storytelling, and how they present different products. Sometimes, just observing successful brands can give you a ton of insight into how to improve your own photos. You might even discover new ways to present your products in a more appealing way.
26. Capture contextual photos when possible
Contextual photos, also known as lifestyle shots, show your product in action or in its natural environment. These types of images help your customers visualize how the product fits into their lives.
Think about how a coffee maker looks so much better when it’s sitting on a beautifully styled kitchen counter, rather than in a plain white studio shot.
These photos aren’t just about selling a product; they’re about selling a lifestyle or a solution to a problem. They connect emotionally with customers, making them feel like they need your product to complete their lives.
So, find ways to create contextual photos that will enhance your product’s appeal.
27. Showcase your range of products
If you have several variations of a product, make sure to photograph them all. Customers want to see every option—colors, sizes, patterns, etc. The more you can show, the better!
To make it easier, try grouping similar products together in one shot. This way, you give your customers a sense of all the available options without overwhelming them with too many individual photos.
A well-organized group shot also helps keep your page looking clean and professional.
28. Experiment with various focal lengths
Different focal lengths can dramatically change the way your product looks in photos. A wide-angle lens (lower focal length) can make your product seem larger or more dynamic, but be careful—it can also distort the image.
On the flip side, a telephoto lens (higher focal length) flattens the perspective, making the product look more natural and accurate in size.
Experiment with focal lengths to see what works best for the type of product you’re shooting.
If you’re photographing small items, a longer focal length (like 85mm or 100mm) can help you capture intricate details without distortion. This can be a game-changer in your product photography.
29. Utilize a remote shutter release for precision
Blur caused by the camera shake is not an uncommon problem, especially when you’re shooting in low light or using longer exposures. One way to avoid this is by using a remote shutter release.
It allows you to snap the photo without physically touching the camera, which reduces the chance of any movement.
If you don’t have a remote, use the camera’s built-in timer feature. Set it for 2-5 seconds, press the shutter, and let the camera do its thing.
This little trick helps ensure your product shots are tack sharp, especially when using slow shutter speeds or shooting on a tripod.
30. Consider product size and scale
One of the best-kept product photography secrets? Giving customers a sense of scale. For instance, if you’re shooting a small item like jewelry, make sure to include an object for reference, like a coin or a hand, to give customers an idea of its size.
This reduces the guesswork for buyers and builds trust. It’s especially helpful when you’re working with smaller products, as online shoppers often struggle to gauge their actual size from photos alone.
31. Create your own DIY lightbox
You don’t need fancy equipment to shoot like a pro! A DIY lightbox can help create soft, even lighting for small to medium-sized products. All you need is a large cardboard box, some white paper or fabric, and a couple of external light sources (like desk lamps).
Cut out the sides of the box, cover them with white paper or fabric, and place your light sources on the outside. This setup creates beautifully diffused light, minimizing harsh shadows and making your products pop.
32. Take some packaging shot
If packaging is a selling point for your product, don’t skip this shot. It’s especially important for items that are gifted or shipped in premium packaging, like subscription boxes, luxury goods, or eco-friendly items. You might even go for packshot retouching to boost your product’s perceived value.
Pro photography tip: Keep it clean and professional. Show both the product and its packaging, focusing on presentation. Use good lighting to highlight textures and any unique design elements on the packaging.
33. Test your shots with different color temperatures
Light isn’t just about brightness; color temperature matters, too! Here are the product photography tips you are looking for: Warm light (yellowish) can create a cozy, inviting feel, while cool light (bluish) can feel sleek and modern.
Try playing with different types of light bulbs (tungsten, LED, etc.) or adjusting the white balance on your camera to change the color temperature and match your brand’s vibe.
If your product is best suited to a warm, homey look, go for warmer lights. For tech gadgets or sleek products, cooler lighting might be your go-to.
34. Keep a consistent aspect ratio
This is a tiny detail that many beginner product photographers overlook, but it’s crucial for eCommerce platforms like Amazon or Etsy. Keeping a consistent aspect ratio across all your product images helps your website or product listings look clean and professional.
It also prevents any awkward cropping that might cut off important parts of your product. A 1:1 square ratio works well for most online marketplaces, but always double-check the platform’s guidelines to make sure you’re meeting their requirements.
35. Clean your lens (Seriously!)
This might seem obvious, but it’s a commonly overlooked product photography tip: always clean your lens before you start shooting!
Dust, smudges, spots, or fingerprints on the camera lens can lead to blurry or hazy images, no matter how perfect your lighting and setup are.
Use a high-quality microfiber cloth or professional lens cleaning liquid to keep your gear in top shape, and you’ll notice a significant improvement in the clarity and sharpness of your shots.
Tips for capturing product photos with your smartphone
Smartphone cameras are now more capable than ever. So, it is no wonder that phone product photography is becoming popular. If you don’t have a DSLR or a Mirrorless camera, you can use your trusty smartphone to photoshoot your products.
Here’s how to make the most of it:
36. Avoid using built-in flash
This is a crucial product photography tip you should always remember. While lighting is vital for all types of product photography, your phone’s built-in flash is not ideal.
It often creates harsh light and unflattering shadows. Instead, rely on natural light or an appropriate LED panel for softer, more even lighting.
37. Use your gridlines for composition
Most smartphones have the feature to turn on gridlines in the camera settings. This helps you apply the rule of thirds—placing your product slightly off-center for a more dynamic shot. It also helps keep your shots straight and balanced.
38. Zoom with your feet, not your phone
A common product photography tip is to avoid using digital zoom on your smartphone, as it degrades image quality. Instead, physically move closer to your product to maintain crisp details.
However, If your phone has an optical zoom feature, you can use that for better results.
39. Use a tripod or stabilize your phone
Shaky hands equal blurry photos, and blurry photos can kill a sale. Invest in a small phone tripod, or stabilize your phone against a stack of books or a sturdy surface if you’re in a pinch. This helps keep your shots steady and sharp.
40. Use portrait mode for a professional look
Many smartphones have a portrait mode that adds a beautiful background blur (bokeh) effect, similar to what you get with DSLR cameras. This feature is fantastic for making your product stand out in photos by blurring the background.
Just ensure that the focus stays on your product and the blur enhances, rather than distracts, from the image.
41. Explore HDR mode for better lighting balance
If you’re shooting a product with high contrast—like a bright background and a darker object—try using HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode on your smartphone.
This mode captures several photos with multiple exposures and blends them, resulting in more balanced lighting across your shot. It can help to ensure your product is well-lit without losing details in the shadows or highlights.
42. Use a remote shutter or timer
A practical product photography tip to avoid a camera shake is to use your smartphone’s remote shutter or timer feature. Especially in low-light conditions or when using a makeshift tripod, use your smartphone’s remote shutter feature (like a Bluetooth remote or earbud button) or the built-in timer.
This minimizes any slight movements from tapping the screen and ensures your product photos come out sharp and blur-free.
43. Use editing apps for final touches
Smartphone photos need the most photo retouching and editing. Unlike professional cameras, you can’t tweak every setting or have every necessary setting required for the perfect flawless shot.
Try using apps like Snapseed, Lightroom Mobile, or VSCO, which can help you adjust the brightness, contrast, and sharpness of your images. However, it’s always best to get your product photographs edited by a reputable commercial image editing service provider.
Product photography tips for Amazon, Etsy & Google shopping
If you’re planning to sell on platforms like Amazon, Etsy, or Google Shopping, each of these has specific requirements for product images.
Let’s go over how to make sure your images meet these standards while still looking amazing.
44. Amazon product photography tips
Amazon is super strict about its image requirements, so you need to be precise to avoid any rejection from the platform.
- Main Image: Must be on a pure white color background (RGB 255, 255, 255) with no additional props, text, or logos. The product should fill 85% of the image frame.
- Image Quality: Amazon recommends at least 1000 pixels on the longest side to ensure the zoom feature works, allowing customers to closely inspect your product.
- No Borders or Watermarks: These are not allowed, so keep your images clean and simple.
For additional images (secondary images), you have more flexibility. You can include lifestyle shots, close-ups, or images of the product in use to show different angles or features. Just make sure the images are sharp and high-quality.
Read also: How does photo retouching drive more sales on Amazon?
45. Etsy product photography tips
Etsy buyers love creative, handmade, and vintage products, so your photos should reflect the personality of your items.
- Main Image: This needs to grab attention but still be simple. Etsy allows more artistic flexibility than Amazon, so your main image doesn’t have to be on a pure white background. However, ensure it is clear and well-lit.
- Size & Quality: Etsy recommends at least 2000 pixels wide, which ensures your photos look great when zoomed in.
- Lifestyle and Detail Shots: Etsy shoppers love to see your product in real-life situations. Include multiple images—show close-ups, different angles, and the product being used in a relatable way. Make sure the colors are accurate and consistent across all images.
46. Google shopping product photography tips
Google Shopping prioritizes clean, clear product images that help buyers make quick decisions.
- Main Image: Should be on a solid pure white background, with the product taking up 75% or more of the frame. No additional text, watermarks, or props.
- Resolution: At least 1000 pixels in width or height. The higher the resolution, the better Google’s algorithms can process and display the images.
- Multiple Images: Google allows up to 10 images per product, so take advantage of this! Use different angles, close-ups, and lifestyle shots to give customers a complete picture of your product.
Product photography tips for different types of items
Every product is unique, and so are the challenges they bring for photographers. Here are specific tips for capturing different types of items:
47. Clothing
Photographing clothing requires a good mix of detail and lifestyle shots. Customers want to know how the fabric drapes, fits, and moves, but they also need to see the details up close, like stitching, buttons, or fabric texture.
Product Photography Tip: Use a mannequin or a model to show how the clothing fits. Flat lays can also work for casual or folded items, but the key is to make the garment look crisp and wrinkle-free. Pay attention to lighting so you can show the true color of the fabric.
48. Jewelry
Jewelry is all about sparkle, shine, and intricate details. But it’s also incredibly tricky to shoot because of its small size and reflective surfaces.
Product Photography Tip: Use diffused lighting to minimize harsh reflections. A macro lens is a must for capturing those tiny details and focusing on clean, elegant backgrounds—nothing should compete with the jewelry’s brilliance.
Read more: How to photograph jewelry items
49. Watches
Watches combine the challenges of reflective surfaces and intricate details. You want to highlight the craftsmanship and functionality, especially features like dials, straps, and unique materials.
Product Photography Tip: Use a mix of close-ups and lifestyle shots. Show the watch on a wrist to provide context, and use soft lighting to avoid unwanted glare on the face.
50. Shoes
Shoes need to be shot from multiple angles, including the sole. Customers will want to see details like stitching, texture, and how the shoe fits when worn.
Product Photography Tip: Make sure the shoes are clean and well-positioned. Use a neutral background for individual shots and incorporate lifestyle shots that show the shoes being worn.
51. Cosmetics
For cosmetics, especially skincare and makeup, the packaging, colors, and textures are what draw customers in. You’ll need a combination of clean product shots and possibly lifestyle images to show the product in use.
Product Photography Tip: Lighting is crucial here. Highlight the textures (e.g., creamy lotions or vibrant powders) and avoid harsh shadows. You can also play with reflective surfaces to enhance the premium feel of beauty products.
52. Home Décor
Home décor items are best shown in context. Customers want to see how a vase, lamp, or piece of art will look in a real room, so lifestyle shots are essential.
Product Photography Tip: Focus on clean, bright settings where the product feels like part of a home. Keep the background simple so the décor piece remains the focal point.
Understanding your target audience
Understanding your buyers is more than just knowing who they are—it’s about knowing what they want to see. Your product photography needs to speak directly to your customers’ tastes, preferences, and lifestyles.
53. Importance of Audience Research
Before you shoot anything, take some time to research your audience. What are their values, interests, and buying habits? Are they looking for luxury, eco-friendliness, or practicality? Customizing your product images to match their preferences can be the key to making a sale instead of losing a potential customer.
Pro tips for product photography: Check out competitors in your niche and see how they present their products. Notice what kind of images resonate most with their (and your) audience.
For example, if your target is millennial women, they might appreciate more vibrant, Instagram-friendly visuals. If you’re targeting professionals, clean, minimal, and polished images might work better.
54. Tailoring product images to demographics
Let’s say you sell high-end skincare products aimed at a luxury market. Your photos need to reflect that with clean, sophisticated, and well-lit images. Or, if you sell outdoor gear to adventure lovers, action shots of the product being used in rugged settings will be more compelling.
Pro tips for product photography: Think about the lifestyle your audience aspires to. If they’re into fitness, show your product in action at the gym or outdoors. If they’re all about luxury, use props and backdrops that elevate the product’s perceived value.
Should you edit your product photos?
Yes, 100%! Editing your product photos is as crucial as capturing them. A well-shot image can still fall short if it’s not properly retouched.
Here’s why editing should be part of your product photography workflow:
1. Fix imperfections
Even with perfect lighting and setup, small imperfections can slip through—like dust, minor reflections, or uneven lighting. Photo editing allows you to fix these issues without having to reshoot.
Professional editors can enhance product details, smooth surfaces and remove any distracting elements from your images, making your product look its absolute best.
2. Enhance colors and lighting
No matter how well-lit your shoot is, sometimes colors and brightness don’t translate perfectly in photos. Editing helps ensure that your product’s colors are accurate and that the lighting looks natural and balanced.
Color correction is essential for products where exact color matters—like clothing or home décor. An inaccurate color can lead to returns or customer dissatisfaction.
3. Boost product appeal
Editing is where you can give your product photos that extra “wow” factor. It can enhance textures, add contrast, sharpen details, and adjust shadows to make your product stand out. You want your product to pop, even on a crowded search page.
Be mindful of over-editing. While editing is important, you don’t want your product to look so enhanced that it’s unrealistic. Your photos should still reflect the true product.
4. Improve consistency
Especially when you’re dealing with multiple product images, editing can ensure they all have the same brightness, color balance, and composition. This consistency is key to building a professional, cohesive look for your online store.
Batch editing can save time and help you maintain consistency across a range of images. Professional retouching services often use workflows to ensure every image looks polished and uniform.
Let Tech Cloud Ltd assist you in bringing the best of your products!
While DIY editing tools like Lightroom or Photoshop are great for beginners, outsourcing your editing to a professional image post-production company like us can take your images to the next level.
Our professional editors have decades of combined experience and extensive expertise to make advanced adjustments that most beginners might not even consider.
Don’t hesitate to invest in professional editing, especially if you’re working with high-end or complex products. Utilizing expert post-production techniques can greatly enhance the overall quality and appeal of your photos. Contact us today to get started.
Final words
Mastering product photography isn’t about having the fanciest gear or the most expensive studio setup. It’s about understanding your products, your audience, and how to make your images do the selling for you.
Take these product photography tips to heart, experiment, and improve with each shoot. Don’t be afraid to get creative, and always aim for quality. Start applying these tips today; the more you shoot, the more confident you’ll become.
So keep practicing and refer back to this article whenever you need to refresh your learning.
Product photography FAQ
1. How can I take better product photography?
Start with natural light, use a tripod for stability, and shoot on a clean background. Focus on the details, use proper lighting, and keep things simple.
2. What is the rule of thirds in product photography?
The rule of thirds helps you compose a balanced shot by dividing your image into nine equal parts and placing your product along the grid lines for visual appeal.
3. What is the best f-stop for product shots?
For most product photography, an f-stop between f/8 and f/11 is ideal. This gives you a good depth of field while keeping the entire product in focus.
4. How do you arrange product photography?
Start by choosing a simple background. Place your product in the center or, according to the rule of thirds, ensure that there is even lighting. Keep props minimal, if any, and avoid clutter.
5. Why is product photography important in eCommerce?
When customers come across your product, the photos they see are the first impression they get. High-quality images help build trust, improve perceived value, and lead to higher conversion rates.
6. What are the 5 best product photography tips?
-Use natural light or softbox lighting.
-Keep your background clean and simple.
-Use a tripod for sharp, steady shots.
-Capture your product from multiple angles.
-Edit your images to fix imperfections and enhance appeal.
