How to Take Pictures: Tips Every Reseller Should Know
Great photos are one of the key elements that can make or break a sale. Think about it—how likely are you to buy a shirt from a seller with a pile of laundry or leftover pizza from two nights ago in the background? You’re more likely to click on items that have clean, professional-looking backgrounds. Whether it’s white, gray, or wood, a tidy backdrop instantly boosts the appeal of your listing. Here are a few things you need to succeed with product photography on platforms like eBay, Mercari, Poshmark, or Etsy.
Camera
A good camera can drastically improve photos. Upgrading to a phone or tablet with a high-quality camera, such as the iPad Pro with flash, makes a noticeable difference. For those starting out on eBay, using a tablet with a good camera and the eBay app is recommended, as it simplifies and speeds up the listing process. A tablet with a high megapixel camera and flash is essential for capturing clear, professional photos. Ensure that the chosen device includes a flash, as not all iPad’s have this feature.
Background
A clean background can make all the difference in making a listing stand out. It helps create a professional and appealing look, which is essential for selling on eBay. The most important rule when taking product photos for eBay is to make sure there is nothing distracting in the background. Investing in a plain backdrop or a stylish wood surface can elevate photos. For those not ready to spend, creative solutions like using a white sheet or a clean, neutral surface can work just as well.
Take inspiration from the photos of favorite online stores or trending posts on social media. These are the types of photos that attract attention and encourage clicks. Keeping the background simple, neat, and inviting is key.
Neewer Backdrop | There are plenty of backdrops available on Amazon, but this is the one we recommend. When selecting a backdrop, make sure to choose one that’s at least 6×9 feet and made of fabric material for the best results. Keep in mind, no matter which one you choose, it’ll likely need some ironing or steaming when it arrives to get rid of any wrinkles.
iPad Pro | The iPad Pro is a great tool for capturing high-quality images and listing items all from the same device. If you don’t have a tablet, your smartphone can do the job as well. Make sure you buy the Pro to have a flash option.
Dress Form
A dress form—is an important investment for clothing listings. It helps display items in a way that shows how they fit and look when worn. A solid-colored dress form, such as white, is recommended as it complements most clothing items and adds a clean, polished look to photos.
Using a dress form not only makes photos more professional but also gives potential buyers a better understanding of how the items will look in real life.
Lighting
Good lighting is essential for high-quality photos. Natural light is the best option. When possible, taking photos near a window with ample light is ideal. Avoid harsh artificial lighting that creates shadows or makes clothing appear overly shiny. If natural light is not available, affordable ring lights or softbox lights can provide the necessary illumination.
Clean the Item
Before taking your product photos, it’s essential to make sure your item is spotless and looks its best. Use a lint roller to remove any dust, pet hair, or lint, especially for clothing or fabric items. A clean, smooth surface helps the product look fresh and more appealing to buyers. For fabrics with wrinkles, a steamer is your best friend—it quickly removes creases without the risk of burning or damaging the material, giving your items a crisp, professional look. Taking the extra time to ensure your product is clean and wrinkle-free will make a significant difference in the quality of your photos and ultimately in your sales.
Steamer | A steamer is a must-have for removing wrinkles from clothes before listing them. It’s quick, efficient, and much easier than ironing, making it perfect for getting your items ready to sell. A steamer ensures your clothes look fresh and presentable in photos, which can lead to better sales. Plus, it’s gentle on fabrics, helping to maintain the quality of your items while getting them wrinkle-free and ready for the next buyer.
Lint Roller | A lint roller is an essential tool for ensuring your products look clean and presentable in photos. Whether you’re photographing clothing, shoes, or other items, a lint roller quickly removes dust, lint, and pet hair, giving your products a polished, professional appearance. It’s a simple, affordable way to ensure your listings look their best and help attract more buyers.
How to Improve eBay Photos and Listings
These tips will significantly enhance the quality of eBay listings. However, even for those just starting out and not ready to invest too much in an eBay store, there are low-cost options. Taking photos outside for natural light, using a simple white sheet for a background, and exploring flat lay photography are all great alternatives.
When buying items to resell, it’s important not to overspend on inventory. The key to making money lies in finding good deals, so listings can be priced competitively. Staying organized—keeping track of inventory and shipping sold items promptly—is essential. Retaking photos for items that aren’t selling can also help.
One thing to remember: If you don’t list, you don’t last. The more listings posted, the more sales made, and the more profits earned. So, don’t give up—keep listing, because eBay works.
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