Tips for Effective Product Photography for Online Sales

Choose the right equipment

When it comes to product photography, the right equipment can make all the difference. You don’t need to break the bank, but investing in a decent camera and lens is essential. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a macro lens will help you capture the fine details of your products. If you’re on a budget, a high-quality smartphone camera can also do the trick, especially with the right lighting and setup.

Lighting is another crucial aspect. Natural light is your best friend, but if that’s not an option, consider investing in softbox lights or ring lights. These can help eliminate harsh shadows and create a more professional look. Here at iWeb, our expert solution architects often recommend using a lightbox for smaller items, which can provide consistent and even lighting.

Set up a proper background

A clean, uncluttered background ensures that your product is the star of the show. White or light grey backgrounds are popular choices because they make the product stand out and are easy to edit. You can use a sweep, which is a seamless background that curves at the bottom, to avoid any distracting lines or shadows.

For a more creative touch, consider using textured backgrounds or props that complement your product. For instance, if you’re photographing jewellery, a marble slab or wooden surface can add a touch of elegance. The team at iWeb often uses Adobe Commerce’s advanced editing tools to enhance these backgrounds further.

Master the art of lighting

Lighting can make or break your product photos. Natural light is ideal, but it’s not always available. Soft, diffused lighting works best for most products. Avoid direct sunlight as it can create harsh shadows and highlights. If you’re shooting indoors, position your lights at a 45-degree angle to your product to minimise shadows.

Reflectors can also be handy. They bounce light back onto the product, reducing shadows and highlighting details. You can use professional reflectors or even a simple piece of white cardboard. Our talented team at iWeb often uses Adobe Experience Cloud to fine-tune lighting in post-production, ensuring every detail is perfect.

Focus on the details

Close-up shots are essential for showcasing the finer details of your products. Use a macro lens or the macro setting on your camera to capture intricate details like stitching, textures, or small components. This is particularly important for items like jewellery, electronics, or handmade crafts.

Don’t forget to use a tripod to keep your camera steady, especially for close-up shots. This will help you avoid any blurriness and ensure your images are sharp. iWeb’s 29 years of e-commerce experience has shown that detailed product photos can significantly boost customer confidence and sales.

Use a tripod for stability

A tripod is a must-have for any serious product photographer. It keeps your camera steady, ensuring sharp, clear images. This is especially important for long exposure shots or when you’re working in low light conditions. A tripod also allows you to maintain a consistent angle and composition across multiple shots.

If you’re shooting with a smartphone, consider using a smartphone tripod or a stabiliser. These tools can help you achieve professional-quality photos without the need for expensive equipment. Our talented in-house team at iWeb often uses tripods to ensure consistency and quality in every shot.

Edit your photos professionally

Editing is where your photos can truly shine. Basic adjustments like cropping, brightness, contrast, and colour correction can make a significant difference. Software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom offers advanced editing tools that can help you achieve a polished look. If you’re not comfortable with these tools, there are plenty of online tutorials to get you started.

For those who prefer a more automated approach, Adobe Experience Manager and Adobe Analytics offer powerful editing and optimisation features. These tools can help you streamline your workflow and ensure your photos are always top-notch. iWeb’s e-commerce expertise includes extensive experience with these platforms, making us an ideal partner for your digital transformation.

Showcase multiple angles

Customers want to see your product from every angle before making a purchase. Providing multiple views can help them make an informed decision and reduce the likelihood of returns. Start with a standard front shot, then capture the back, sides, and any unique features or details.

360-degree photos or videos can take this a step further, allowing customers to interact with the product online. This immersive experience can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and boost sales. Our talented UK team at iWeb often integrates these features into e-commerce platforms like Magento and Adobe Commerce.

Optimise images for web

High-quality images are essential, but they can also slow down your website if not optimised correctly. Compress your images to reduce file size without sacrificing quality. Tools like Adobe Photoshop or online services like TinyPNG can help you achieve this balance.

Ensure your images are in the correct format. JPEGs are great for most product photos, while PNGs are better for images with transparent backgrounds. Also, don’t forget to add alt text to your images for better SEO and accessibility. iWeb’s track record in e-commerce shows that optimised images can significantly improve website performance and user experience.

—

For more tips and expert advice on product photography and e-commerce solutions, reach out to iWeb today. Our talented team is here to help you transform your online store and boost your sales. Contact us to learn how we can support your digital journey.