1. The Studio Shot
What: Your product, on a plain-Jane background, well lit for all to see.
Why: A studio shot is the clearest way to show potential customers what you’re offering. When shoppers are browsing thumbnails, they’re drawn to clear, bright photos that really show off the product. An added bonus to this type of shot is that clear photos set a realistic expectation of what a customer will be receiving in the mail, helping you to avoid the hassle of returns and exchanges.
How: You don’t actually need a professional photo studio to pull of this shot. Just use a plain background and plenty of light. If your creations are small you can tape a piece of white paper onto a wall and let it curve down onto the table or floor to make a seamless backdrop. If you’re selling clothes or larger wares, try hanging a white sheet on your garage door or an available wall.
Next, lighten up! Bright, indirect light is the best option for capturing clear photos. Set up near a big window in the middle of the day or, if you’re outside, shoot in even shade. You can use a light-colored piece of paper or a reflector to bounce extra light onto your subject. Or, check out Photojojo's Foldio, a mini white photo studio with built-in lights, to keep set up to a mininum.