Your products gain their reputation by performing beyond expectations once they arrive in your customer’s hands. However, first you need to get that person to click on the Add to Cart button. Your product images are crucial in snaring a shopper’s attention and converting curiosity into purchasing power. Use these best practices to help create pictures that put your products in their best light while avoiding any hint of misrepresentation.
Focusing on the Product
When building your eCatalog for your new product line, make sure that your images are highlighting the product, not the background. The item should be the only thing in the shot and be placed against a white or light gray background. Natural light allows a true representation of color and shape.
- Cameras Matter: Use a high-resolution camera with an adjustable f-stop able to provide a sharp focus on the entire item. Some iPhones offer the extra functions and clarity you need, but a good DSLR camera will not shatter your budget. If you are not confident in your skills, use your marketing budget to hire a professional.
- Avoid Using a Flash: Instead, use a light box that produces an even saturation of light around the entire product, reducing shadows.
- Multiple Angles for the Win: Snap several angles showing the back, bottom, or insides of the item. Is there a branded stamp? Capture it for your customer.
- Also Included: When selling a kit, collection, or multi-piece set, one of the images should show all the items included in the box.
- Is it Different: No matter how small the change may be among different sizes, trims, and attachments, grab a sample shot to help your customer find the right item for their needs.
- Editing is Your Friend: While you will want to avoid touching up the image of the actual product, cleaning up the background to reduce distractions is always recommended.
Lifestyle Shots Provide Context
While the static product-only image is crucial for your product page, it is also important to present your product in real-world situations. Show the automotive part after it is installed. A ball could be part of a game. The tent should appear fully erect in a campsite. Lifestyle shots are great for gaining interest on social media posts, in printed ads, and as part of your blog campaign as well. If your customer cannot actually pick up and hold the article listed on your site, they can see how it is intended to be used and that it is fully functional. The lifestyle shot should be included on the product page, but as the last image provided in the description.
Believe in the Brand
Whether you are selling a popular name brand product line or introducing your own, the brand logo must be highlighted in your product photography. If the product itself lacks a branded stamp, but arrives in a familiar branded box, add a snap of the packaging.
With the wealth of apps and technology available to the average new eCommerce business owner, it is completely possible to create a professional catalog and product pages using your own images. However, if your sample shots are not quite up to standard, do not hesitate to bring in a professional—your future sales depend on it.
