We hope there is no need to repeat the rule that better images make for better sales. As a person running your own business, you have learned it long ago. In this brief overview, we aim to remind you how to create really impressive pictures that will drive your conversions and sales forward.
If we approach the matter systematically, we need to distinguish between two ways of product image refining. Let’s call them ‘hardware’ and ‘software’ ways, correspondingly. The hardware method is to organize an excellent photoshoot to create impressive images that will require little post-improvement. The second, ‘software’ way, is to apply quality post-production to make the images match the specific vision and goals of your business. You can use one way or another, or combine them nicely for achieving the desired effects – and increase in sales. Or, if you look for a good place to make product photo in Austin, do not forget to check with the studio what photo enhancements they will offer. By their answers, you’ll know if you can really trust them.
‘Hardware’ solutions
Pick the right equipment: if possible, do not use your phone and use a camera instead. The camera settings and capacities allow more flexibility and quality in pictures. Where your phone pictures win due to the filters, the camera will create brilliant images without any distortion or tampering.
Create high-resolution photos: it is an absolute must. If you include a zoom-in option, a photo should match it in resolution and detail. Check what the maximum resolution is allowed on the platforms where you operate and use the limit to the full.
Apply enough light: a product needs to be perfectly visible. There shouldn’t be any obscure places or spots. Big brands can afford to make dark pictures where only glimpses of the product are visible. You cannot afford it (at least, now) if you want to win the customers.
Few props (if any): if it is not a lifestyle shot, remove any distracting items. Often, customers complain that the delivered product does not look like expected because they have seen it styled with a variety of other products. On its own, a product looks totally different, remember it.
Bring out the product and its features: this tip complements the other two above. The advice to sell a story is good in theory, but customers buy a product first. Nice moody pics or arrays of items on a flat lay are good for Instagram. Yet, they can strike back when the customers write angry reviews that you deliberately hid the product details from them by overloading the pics with props. Keep it simple and minimal, it really works.
‘Software’ solutions
Some postproduction (in a reasonable amount) did not harm anyone but apply it wisely to your images. Pick the tools that work well for you and manipulate them to achieve a subtle but powerful effect.
Color improvement: fix the color if it does not match the true color of the item. You need to convey the real color as accurately as possible.
Settings improvement: remove from the picture unnecessary details (hangers, pegs, strings), let the product speak for itself.
Look and finish improvement: remove creases from fabric, fingerprints from glossy surfaces, and shadows falling in improper places (without distorting the real look of the item).
The line not to cross: do not over-engage in retouching the look of human models (if you employ them) and jewelry. Apply only the minimal touches and keep it natural.
We hope we have clarified the key points so that you would do it all just right. The more you practice, the easier it becomes. And we are always here for you to lend a hand and give some useful tips and a friendly nudge!
