Photo Tips for Selling Your Local Handmade and Homegrown Goods Online
Our mission at steadgoods.com is to showcase handmade and homegrown goods in a way that connects local producers and consumers – keeping food, goods, cash, and work within neighborhoods, towns and cities. As a seller on SteadGoods, your listing photos are the first opportunity you have to introduce your products to your friends and neighbors, and we want that first impression to be awesome!
To help with that, we gathered up some tips and tricks for even a novice photographer to capture their home-based product at its best:
1. Use Natural Light Natural light is your best friend when it comes to photographing your goods. It reduces harsh shadows and brings out the true colors of your items. Aim to shoot during the day near a window or outside in diffused light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can create overly bright spots and harsh shadows.
2. Keep It Simple A clutter-free background ensures that the focus remains on your product. Use a plain, neutral backdrop such as a sheet or a piece of poster board. This helps highlight the details of your item without distractions. If you want to add context, use simple props that complement but don’t overpower the product.
3. Showcase Different Angles Potential buyers want to see every detail of the product they're considering. Capture multiple angles, including front, back, side, and close-up shots of key features. This provides a comprehensive view and helps build trust with your audience.
4. Focus on Details Pay attention to the finer details that set your product apart. Highlight textures, patterns, and unique elements. Close-up shots can emphasize craftsmanship, material quality, and intricate design aspects that might not be visible from a distance.
5. Use a Tripod A steady camera ensures clear, sharp images. Use a tripod to avoid blurriness caused by shaky hands. This is particularly important for close-up shots and low-light conditions. If you don't have a tripod, try to stabilize your camera on a solid surface.
6. Edit Thoughtfully Post-processing can enhance your photos, but it's important not to overdo it. Use editing tools to adjust brightness, contrast, and color balance to match the real-life appearance of the product. Cropping and straightening the image can also improve the composition. Avoid filters that may distort the true colors and features of the item.
7. Scale It Right Help potential buyers understand the size of your product by including reference items or a scale. This could be as simple as placing a ruler or a common object (like a coin) next to the product. Clear dimensions in the product description also aid in providing a sense of scale.
8. Keep It Consistent Consistency in your photos helps create a cohesive and professional look for your online store. Use similar lighting, backgrounds, and angles for all your products. This not only enhances your brand image but also makes it easier for customers to compare different items in your catalog.
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to capturing eye-catching online listing photos that attract buyers and boost your sales. Remember, high-quality images convey professionalism, build trust, and ultimately help turn browsers into buyers.
