Photography is a captivating and immersive visual art form. As an entrepreneur, you can leverage it to spark your customers’ interest and potentially boost sales. But keep this in mind: taking stunning shots requires more than just passion.
Besides being creative, you also need an unwavering eye for detail to become an exceptional eCommerce photographer. Also, be open to learning new things every day. Supposing you’re ready, here are some great tips to improve your eCommerce product photography skills.
Table of Contents
Master your device settings
Upgrade your gear kit
Shoot from various angles and positions
Shoot in RAW format
Invest in quality image editing software
Find good lighting
Improve your photography skills to achieve your creative vision
Master your device settings
Understand how your camera works to become a great photographer. To do that, start by learning the purpose of the device’s manual and digital settings. This can help you improve your images’ look and feel.
Again, learn more about the exposure triangle, which comprises the aperture, shutter speed, and sensitivity to light (ISO). Each plays a key role in exposing an image properly.
The aperture is a hole that controls the amount of light entering the camera and hitting the image sensor. Think of it as your camera’s “pupil.” Its size can range from f/32 or f/16 to f/2.8, depending on your device. While the shutter speed affects an image’s exposure to light, the ISO determines how dark or light your photos will be.
Another camera setting you should understand is white balance. It enables you to adjust the image color. As such, you can make your photographs look more natural and realistic.
Upgrade your gear kit
If you want to take quality images and expand your style, you need advanced camera gear in your arsenal. High-end photography equipment also translates into more versatility. With it, you’ll be more confident as a photographer. This could prompt you to take on many projects and rake in more profits.
But then, brands release fancy photography gear every other week. When is the right time to get yours off the market? Replace your camera when your old one stops working or has faulty parts. If you have the finances, you can still purchase new photography equipment to get the most out of the latest technology and improve your workflow.
Shoot from various angles and positions
Taking photos from different angles can also go a long way in enhancing your photography skills. For starters, it enables you to capture wide shots with more visual interest. On top of that, this eliminates distractions in the background, allowing you to express your visual intent.
You can also explore different positions when shooting photos from various angles. For instance, you can stand on a chair or table. If your subject is a child, get down to their level to take more intimate shots. Alternatively, you can lie on your back so that the subject stands over you.
Shoot in RAW format
A large chunk of professional photographers choose RAW over formats like Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG). Their preference is fueled by various factors. To begin with, RAW images are typically large and uncompressed. Thus, they contain more image data, which translates into detailed and colorful photos.
Additionally, RAW images give you more creative control and flexibility during editing. They also present learning opportunities since you can optimize your images by manipulating aspects like white balance, ISO, focus, exposure, and metering. In the long run, this enables you to develop your photography technique.
When shooting in raw, ensure you have enough storage space to accommodate the large files. Instead of putting your camera in automatic mode, take manual control of the device. This will enable you to change its settings according to your unique photography needs and the shoot location.
Invest in quality image editing software
Some of the most successful professional photographers can attest that image editing software plays a big role in stitching photos exactly how you want them. These tools enable you to reuse images for many purposes.
For example, you can add watermarks to photos to build trust and credibility. At the same time, you could turn the same images into visually appealing animations to represent your unique brand identity.
Considering the advantages photo editing tools offer, it’s not surprising that the global image editing software market size is set to hit US $1.5036 billion in 2031. In 2021, it was worth only US $0.932 million, as per research done by Business Research Insights.
Before choosing an image editing software, ensure it’s compatible with your camera and computer. The tool should also be responsive and capable of editing large files. Moreover, software with a wide selection of ready-made filters and customizable presets makes editing your images a breeze.
Find good lighting
In photography, nothing beats good lighting. It creates contrast, highlights, and shadows, all of which contribute to the ambience of your photos. Therefore, you can use the lighting to evoke feelings, set an image’s tone, and convey a message.
So, how can you find good lighting for your photos? Opt for natural light. It allows you to explore many viewpoints. Plus, it’s flattering for different skin tones and surfaces. Moreover, natural lighting gives your images realism, tapping into the viewers’ senses.
You can also get good lighting by choosing the right time for your photoshoots. To enjoy soft, diffused light, go for the “golden hours.” These are usually an hour after sunrise and before sunset. Still, you can take gorgeous pictures at any other time of the day as long as you select the right shoot location, angle, and position.
During the photo sessions, ensure your subject doesn’t face the sunlight directly. This prevents them from highlighting their blemishes.
Improve your photography skills to achieve your creative vision
Being a great photographer comes with many advantages. To begin with, it allows you to take professional product images, drawing in more prospective customers and potentially converting them. Besides, remarkable photography skills can set you apart from competitors and boost your confidence.
When taking your shots, tell a story. Narratives add depth to images, making them more captivating. Storytelling with photography involves shooting multiple images, focusing on the small details, and planning ahead. Get your photography tools and accessories from Alibaba.com today to embark on or enhance your creative journey today.
