Every Etsy seller knows that having great photos is key to attracting buyers. But if you’re not an experienced photographer, how do you take good photos for Etsy?
If you want to take better Etsy product photos this blog post is for you! I’ll share my best tips, from backdrop ideas to camera tips. No matter what kind of product you’re selling there are universal key tips to help your photos excel.
Whether you’re just starting out selling products online or looking for ways to improve your existing shots, keep reading! We’ve put together some helpful advice for creating images that really make your Etsy products shine.
Use Natural Light when Possible
For any photographer, light is everything! Product photography lighting is no exception! Incorporating natural light in your photography is a great way to give off that home-made, crafty vibe without having any extra equipment.
Don’t use flash if you’re a beginner. Artificial light can often be harsh and unflattering, whereas natural light tends to be much more soft and forgiving.
If you’re taking pictures indoors, try to position yourself near a window so that you can take advantage of the natural light coming in. Find an area with ample windows and move around the room for dramatically different results!
Don’t be afraid to take outdoor product shots. The sun’s glow is the best way of getting that perfect golden look on your listings. If you’re taking photos outdoors, early morning or late afternoon is usually the best time of day to get the most beautiful light. Just experiment a little and see what works best for you and your products.
With a little practice, you’ll soon be able to show off your items in their best light and help you to make more sales on Etsy.
Experiment with Composition
Have you ever taken a photo of a product and thought it just didn’t look quite right? The composition of the photo can make a big difference in how your products are perceived. Here are a few composition tips to help you take better photos of your products:
1. Make sure the product is the star of the photo. It should be the main focus and fill up most of the frame.
2. Get close to the product. This will help to show off its details and give it a more intimate feel.
3. Experiment with different angles. Try taking photos from above, below, or even from the side. You may be surprised at which angle showcases your product in the best light. Flat lay product photography is very popular on Etsy, so practice a few shots from directly above.
The perfect composition can be difficult to achieve. But when you do find it – that’s where the real magic happens in photography.
Choose Backgrounds Wisely
The right background can make or break your product shots. In general, it’s best to use simple background to let your product shine. Most Etsy sellers choose white or light-coloured backdrops to show off their products without distractions. A plain wall or sheet of paper will do the trick. Avoid busy backgrounds that will distract from the product.
But if you want to create a unique look for your Etsy store you can experiment with patterned or textured backgrounds. Paper can be a great DIY background for product shots. Try crumpling or layering it for another atmosphere.
Try a mix of lifestyle shots and clean background shots for the same product. You can take a round of product photos on a clean background, then add some photography props to mix it up! Take lots of different photos! Then compare the results and see which ones work best.
It’s always a good idea to get some feedback from others when you’re starting out. Ask friends or family members which photos they think are most successful. Social media is another great way to test effectiveness. Post a version of each background on your Instagram page and see which gets the most likes. If your image is turning heads on Insta, it’s likely to be just as eye-catching on Etsy.
Use the Right Gear
With the right equipment, you can take amazing Etsy product photos that will make your customers want to buy! That doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune, especially if you are more interested in your store than photography in general! Your smartphone can work wonders if you experiment with the camera settings. But if you’re really serious about getting great product photos, then you need to invest in the right gear.
With a little research, you can find models that will give you the ability to capture high-quality images, without breaking the bank. If you’re just getting started, you may want to compare camera specs for entry-level DSLRs or mirrorless cameras.
However, if you’re looking to take your product photography to the next level, you’ll need to invest in lenses too. Any experienced photographer will tell you that choosing the right lens is just as important as the camera itself when it comes to taking great photos. Different lenses offer different advantages and choosing the right one can make a big difference in the quality of your photos.
A wide-angle lens will capture more of the product in a single frame, while a telephoto lens can help you get closer to the action. When taking product photos, it’s important to use a lens that will capture all the details of the item. A macro lens is a good option for this, as it allows you to get up close and personal with your subject.
Fortunately, there are plenty of great options out there, so doing some research and finding the right fit for your needs shouldn’t be too difficult. With the right camera in hand, you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning product photos that will help boost your business.
Conclusion
By following these simple tips, you can take better Etsy product photos that will grab attention and boost sales. So get out there and start experimenting!
Put your best foot forward when taking product shots for your Etsy store, and not only will your photos look great, but you’ll be on your way to boosting sales and growing your business.
Happy shooting!