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Taking Great Product Photos

Tips for capturing photos that help sell your items faster

Austin Headley avatar
Written by Austin Headley
Updated this week

Photos Sell Your Items

Great photos help buyers see exactly what they're getting. They build trust and lead to faster sales with fewer questions.

The Basics

Good Lighting

  • Natural daylight is best

  • Avoid harsh shadows

  • Don't use flash (it washes out details)

  • Near a window works great

Clean Background

  • Plain surface (table, floor, white paper)

  • Remove clutter from the frame

  • Let the item be the focus

Steady Shots

  • Hold phone with both hands

  • Rest elbows on a surface

  • Tap to focus before shooting

What to Photograph

Essential Shots

Front view - The main image buyers see first

Back view - Show all sides

Close-up of brand/model - Proves authenticity

Included accessories - Cables, cases, boxes

Any flaws or wear - Be upfront about condition

For Electronics

  • Screen on (shows it works)

  • Ports and buttons

  • Battery health screen (for phones)

  • Serial number (optional, for verification)

For Furniture

  • Full piece from multiple angles

  • Close-up of fabric/material

  • Underside if relevant

  • Measurements visible or noted

For Clothing

  • Front and back

  • Tags with size/brand

  • Close-up of fabric

  • Any stains or wear

Photo Tips That Work

Show Scale

Include a common object for size reference:

  • Remote control

  • Hand

  • Coin

  • Ruler

Capture True Colors

  • Daylight gives most accurate colors

  • Avoid yellow indoor lighting

  • Check photo matches real item before uploading

Multiple Angles

More photos = more confidence for buyers. Aim for 4-8 photos per listing.

Be Honest

Photograph flaws clearly:

  • Scratches

  • Dents

  • Stains

  • Missing parts

Buyers appreciate honesty. It prevents disputes and builds your reputation.

What to Avoid

  • Blurry or dark photos

  • Too much background clutter

  • Photos from the internet (use your own)

  • Filters that change appearance

  • Screenshots of screenshots

Quick Phone Camera Tips

iPhone

  • Tap screen to focus

  • Swipe up to brighten

  • Use portrait mode for larger items

Android

  • Tap to focus

  • Adjust brightness slider

  • Use "Photo" mode, not portrait for items

Photo Checklist

Before uploading, check:

  • [ ] Item is clearly visible

  • [ ] Photos are well-lit

  • [ ] All sides shown

  • [ ] Accessories included in shot

  • [ ] Any flaws photographed

  • [ ] Not blurry

The Payoff

Better photos lead to:

  • Faster sales

  • Fewer buyer questions

  • Less chance of disputes

  • Better seller ratings

Take an extra minute on photos - it's worth it!

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