In the world of online auctions, especially on platforms like eBay, high-quality photos are essential for attracting buyers and boosting your sales. A compelling picture can significantly increase the perceived value of your item and ultimately lead to a higher selling price. Here’s how to take product photos that get results.
Always take multiple photos from various angles, showing close-ups of important details, and providing overall views. If selling a car, photograph it with the doors open and closed. For a DVD, showcase the front cover, back, and the disc itself.
Prioritize photo quality by ensuring optimal lighting. Natural daylight is usually best, especially on overcast days. If shooting in direct sunlight, try to do so during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer. Use a tripod to avoid blurry images, especially in low light, and avoid over or underexposing your photos.
Choose a clean, uncluttered background that complements your item. A contrasting color works well, and the background should be matte to prevent distracting reflections. For example, photograph a black computer mouse against a white or light gray backdrop.
Highlight unique features or important details with close-up shots. If you’re selling a car with low mileage, photograph the odometer. When selling a branded product, like a shirt, take a close-up of the logo or tag to showcase its authenticity.
Let your photos reinforce your product description. If you describe the stitches on a purse as “perfect”, include a close-up photo as proof.
If size is relevant, include a common object in the photo for scale. When selling a small item, photograph it next to a quarter or a matchbox to give the viewer a clear sense of its dimensions.
Finally, optimize your photo file size for faster loading. A VGA resolution (640×480) is often sufficient and results in a smaller file size (around 50KB). This ensures that potential buyers aren’t discouraged by slow loading times.