Etsy Insights: Streamlining product photography

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Hi there, my name is Paige Everson, and I'm the owner of TheCozyBungalowShop. For the past two and a half years, I've been selling vintage and antique home decor. This venture began after I decided to leave my career as a wedding photographer to spend more time with my family. Being an Etsy seller has allowed me to blend what I consider my two greatest strengths, my 14 years of experience in the retail industry with my 15 years pursuing my creative passion in photography. My goal was to create a shop with beautifully curated items that are also visually appealing.

Drawing on my photography background, I've learned that time is valuable, especially when it comes to photographing products. To work smarter, not harder, I photograph my items in an assembly line fashion. This makes things go quickly and efficiently, but also allows me to easily photograph items together in order to cross-promote and reduce the number of images required.

In the image above, I line up all the products I plan to list and photograph each one in 10 different ways. This includes:

1 styled with another item
2 solo shots
1 close-up
2-3 photos of each angle or side
1-2 showing any defects or damage
1 of the maker’s mark
1 photo of me holding the item or placing it beside a recognizable object to illustrate its scale.

One of my most effective time-saving techniques is styling 2-3 pieces together in at least one shot as shown in the photo below. Customers appreciate seeing how an item can be used. Instead of using random props, I style the item with other pieces that I will be listing separately. This allows me to reuse some of the same images in multiple listings (just be sure to use a different cover image for each).

Here I’m selling a 1920’s English Bovril cup. I’ve styled it with several other items I will be listing separately.

5 3.jpg

Another advantage of styling your products together is the opportunity for cross-promotion. Within a listing, you can include a phrase like, "basket not included, but listed separately here," along with a link to the other item. This encourages potential buyers to explore more of your
shop and increase the possibility of selling both items.

Below is another listing photo where I photograph the same binoculars I used when styling the Bovril cup. I can use the cup image in one of the listing images for the binoculars. I’m also styling the binoculars with a french gratuity plate. I can use this image for both the binoculars listing and the gratuity plate listing. I will also link the other items in my product description.

Improving your product photography isn’t just about taking good photos—it’s about creating a process that supports your creativity (and efficiency!). By following this process for each photoshoot, I can create listing images that are visually compelling, spark interest, and hopefully help boost sales.

Do you have a tip or process that works well for you when photographing your items? Let me know in the comments!

TheCozyBungalowShop

Posted 1 year ago · Edited 1 year ago·Last reply 1 year ago

224 comments

weddinggiftcandleart

·1 year ago

perfect photos

BerrysNails

·1 year ago

Thank you so much for the guide! I wish I had props like those ones, it is difficult when your product is tiny

BerrysNails

·1 year ago

Thank you so much for the guide! I wish I had props like those ones, it is difficult when your product is tiny

TheCozyBungalowShop

OP1 year ago

I think your photos look great!

BerrysNails

·1 year ago

Thank you so much! I struggle and I am trying to learn more about how to light things up and how to make colors more accurate ot the listings I am selling. I feel like getting into Etsy is a never ending learning experience

pearlflyStore

·1 year ago

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PlatinumCustoms316

·1 year ago

Owner

Amazing work. Alot better then my listings thats for sure

Rocksilverartisan

·1 year ago

https://www.etsy.com/in-en/listing/4329718991/turquoise-bracelet-handmade-bracelet

https://www.etsy.com/in-en/listing/4329228255/spinner-ring-anxiety-spinner-ring-925?

https://www.etsy.com/in-en/listing/4329226803/citrine-bracelet-handmade-bracelet?

GemsForArtist

·1 year ago

https://www.etsy.com/shop/GemsForArtist?ref=seller-platform-mcnav

DreamyBoxCo

·1 year ago

Really a good and useful article! Thank you for sharing these wonderful experiences. I will try to take beautiful pictures like you

LittleZcrochet

·1 year ago

how beautiful photos

BygoneBlingJewelry

·1 year ago

Thank you so much for sharing this!

KCongshop

·1 year ago

Your shop is love

Pingrafias

·1 year ago

Thank you for this guide!

KnoticalBlessings

·1 year ago

That is so beautiful. I immediately thought I had to have it. Well done!

TheChicNerd

·1 year ago

This helps of course thank you. but being a photographer must help your cause, This was really helpful and definitely worth trying but all I keep thinking about is that I am not gifted in the department of photography.

TheChicNerd

·1 year ago

TheCozyBungalowShop

OP1 year ago

True, but who do you go to for advice on different subjects? Isn’t someone who specializes in that field? They would know best how to guide you. I my goal was to use easy examples of how anyone can improve in their photos.

4chicksvintage

·1 year ago

Most people struggle in learning their trade...don't focus so much on the negatives of your talents...

plainandfancyvintage

·1 year ago

Your photos are amazing! What do you use to take them?

plainandfancyvintage

·1 year ago

Your photos are amazing! What do you use to take them?

TheCozyBungalowShop

OP1 year ago

Thank you! I use professional equipment, but you can get similar results with just a phone. The most important things are your surface, backdrop and lighting. Make sure you have plenty of indirect light, and a neutral backdrop and surface. You can even get 3 pieces of dollar store white foam board. One can be your surface, one your backdrop and the third can act as a bounce for indirect side window or door light. Hope this helps.

4chicksvintage

·1 year ago

I struggle with lighting issues...every room in my home is darker than I want it for taking photos. I bought a light ring...umbrella reflector & diffusers. My location for that photograpy setting is on the north side of my home.

The ring can show a "ring" reflection on my photos, so I quit using it. The bulb in the umbrella reflector is not the right kind. What type would you recommend?

I saw a '85W 5500k CFL Light Bulb' advertised in one product online.

Would that be suitable?

CherryDTF

·1 year ago

<span class="">Thank you very much for sharing your tips and information</span>

CodysKorner

·1 year ago

Thanks for the useful tips and how to incorporate more than one item in your listings into photographs. I’ve been on here 8 years and still so much to learn. Not the greatest at photography so this definitely helps. Also sizing as some don’t really measure for their own home and using something to help potential buyers see the size (like using a coke can) helps to see dimensions.

AntiquesAtlanta

·1 year ago

Your photography is lovely. Thanks for the innovative tips.

EternalOrgonite

·1 year ago

Thank you for the helpful information!

SCRAPSYNTHE

·1 year ago

Merci pour ce partage. Isabelle

PrettyAndPracticalB

·1 year ago

All so beautiful and helpful!

Is there anything specific I can better my shop on? https://prettyandpracticalb.etsy.com/

PrettyAndPracticalB

·1 year ago

All so beautiful and helpful!

Is there anything specific I can better my shop on? https://prettyandpracticalb.etsy.com/

4chicksvintage

·1 year ago

Your photos look great! So clean looking...neat. Your story is interesting & compelling. So many people don't realize all the abundant health concerns with many products sold on the market today in the USA & world...At least you care & are doing something about it!

CherryDTF

·1 year ago

It was a very clear and instructive text. Thank you!

GrimalkinGlassworks

·1 year ago

Awesome guide! I absolutely loathe taking photos so any time saving tips like these are SO welcome and valuable. Thank you!

BavarianHeritage

·1 year ago

oh wow, thank you so much for sharing your work. it's very interesting to get insights into the work of other sellers, especially when it's of such high quality. i find your photos very appealing and the composition very successful. compliments!!!

BavarianHeritage

·1 year ago

TheCozyBungalowShop

OP1 year ago

Thanks so much!

Thingsintimestore

·1 year ago

Thank you for such wonderful insight. I really appreciate it.

kurtchristian88

·1 year ago

tks

linenorbit

·1 year ago

good

4chicksvintage

·1 year ago

Thank you!!

4chicksvintage

·1 year ago

Sometimes, the photos I take especially for the cover photo shows the image totally. I can even crop it, then when the photo is actually uploaded part of the image is not showing. For example, I may have a china saucer with a sugar bowl in the photo. The tip of the saucer may not be in the photo when it is uploaded into the frame.

I can be think I didn't do the best job taking the photo and go back to the photo on my phone and see the items are in the frame. Any suggestions? And I have clicked on a photo after it has been uploaded and see it is showing in full...perhaps, sometimes the customer doesn't see what I see in the backend.

TheCozyBungalowShop

OP1 year ago

Take the cover photo image a little farther away. There is a slight crop that happens in preview window, so if you have more background showing around the image it’s less likely to get cutoff. Of course, you can get closer and show more details in your other images.

4chicksvintage

·1 year ago

Thank You!!

MigomiButik

·1 year ago

Thanks

CocomiaElite

·1 year ago

Thank you

Veysora

·1 year ago

Amazing! Thanks a lot !

MeditationCrafts

·1 year ago

Thank you so much for sharing your advice and experience! Your insights were not only helpful but truly inspiring. It's always encouraging to learn from fellow creatives who understand the process and challenges of running a small business. I'm grateful for the tips you've shared, and I’m excited to apply them to my own journey.

BohoJwelleryBazar

·1 year ago

Thank you for sharing this beautiful experience.

Hi there! I'm Arpita Jain, the designer and maker behind BOHOJWELLERYBAZAR, where I create handcrafted boho-style brass jewelry. My pieces are all about earthy elegance, vintage charm, and a touch of whimsy. I want my photos to reflect that vibe—visually stunning yet grounded in natural textures and tones.

Over time, I’ve developed a simple but effective photography routine that helps me save time while creating beautiful, consistent product images. Here are a few tips that have really worked for me when shooting my jewelry:

1. Batch Style Like a Pro
Just like Paige from TheCozyBungalowShop, I prep all my jewelry pieces and photograph them in batches. I group complementary items—like matching earrings and rings—and shoot them together for styling shots.

2. Use Natural Light + Neutral Backgrounds
Boho jewelry shines best in soft, natural lighting. I shoot near a window during golden hour or on overcast days for that warm, even light.

3. Shoot Every Angle
Here’s my standard shot list:
Solo front shot
Side and back views
Close-up of texture/design
Scale shot (on hand or near a coin)
Packaging shot (optional)
Defect or detail if needed

4. Style With Purpose
Instead of using random props, I style my rings next to the matching bracelet or earrings laid on a handmade ceramic dish I’m also selling. That way, I can reuse those shots across listings and subtly promote other products.

5. Cross-Link Your Products
In your descriptions, don’t forget to say things like
"The necklace is styled here with our matching earrings—find them here [insert link]!"
It helps customers visualize full looks and often leads to more than one purchase.

6. Keep It Consistent
A consistent photo style builds brand identity. I stick with warm tones, soft shadows, and boho textures so my shop has a cohesive, inviting look.

TreasureHutJewelry

·1 year ago

Thank you so much for sharing this. I do nice photogrpahy, but it takes me 2-3 hours to take up to 10 good photos for one item and that is entirely too long and too exhausting. I have been trying to figure out a smarter way to do my photography because I have a lot to do but not nearly enough time the way I’m doing it. I do have some listings that are styled with matching or compatible items but I love the idea of photographing all my items styled with another compatible or matching item so that I can reuse these photos for additional listing photos. It’s been right in front of my face all this time but I never thought to do all my jewelry items this way. This will definitely save a lot of time while improving my photographs at the same time. I’ll have to look up how to add links to the items in the photo that are sold in a separate listing. I don’t yet know how to do that but I doubt it’s difficult. Thanks again for adding your streamline process to the previous shop (that vintage shop that started this thread) this is going to solve my hardest problem so far (5 years)

- Emmie

TreasureHutJewelry.Etsy.com

BlueCabooseStation

·1 year ago

Great pointers, thank you for sharing. I like the idea of identifying a number of items to list and then take the photos. I have been doing one at a time. I will try this.

No402Studio

·1 year ago

No402Studio

Thank you for your valuable information.

LuxeStudio20

·1 year ago

Organic cotton bohenian dress

Thank you for this guide!

ExploreWorldd

·1 year ago

The photos are truly inspiring. Thank you.

HantiseHome

·1 year ago

"Thank you so much for sharing these tips! They are really helpful and reminded me how important lighting and background are in product photography. Using easy tools like Adobe Express for editing will definitely make my workflow smoother. Thanks again for the valuable advice — I’m excited to showcase my products more professionally now!"

InstantPrintablesLab

·1 year ago

Beautiful

CoxRetros

·1 year ago

I can't get over the number of AI bot replies to this!

4chicksvintage

·1 year ago

What? Can you explain?

SomaBelleStore

·1 year ago

thank you so much for sharing this

giftfavorstime

·1 year ago

I was very impressed. I also want to take my photos in nature now.

ZewarStudio

·1 year ago

Interesting take, really like promoting your other listings. Any guidance for jewelry photography?

TreasureHutJewelry

·1 year ago

I would like tips on jewelry photography too since jewelry is so hard to photo, but this thread does apply to jewelry as well.

SpaceCaseTech

·1 year ago

It reminded me of an old house by the sea that comes to life for a moment only once a year when the family comes there on holiday.

SpilledbyCaroline

·1 year ago

It’s an evocative and curated aesthetic that tells a subtle story through stillness and patina. It would resonate well with lovers of vintage decor, slow living, or handmade artistry.

HDWEARSTORE

·1 year ago

Thank you for this guide!

Macratella

·1 year ago

thank you soo much fir needed tips. This way of efficiency also creates certain vibe of the shop, which yours definitely has. I love it-the cohesion that goes with products.

architecteffects

·1 year ago

This was such a helpful post—thank you for sharing your workflow insights, Paige!
As a new Etsy seller and the creator of Architect Effects, I’ve been exploring ways to streamline my own product photography for personalized wall art.
Your tips on cross-promoting items and simplifying the process really resonated with me.

If anyone’s curious, you can check out my soft, poetic designs here:

https://www.etsy.com/shop/architecteffects

Wishing all of you continued creative success!

hopeandjoystudios

·1 year ago

I have always batch shot my photos. Sometimes with the "help" lf my assistant dogs or grandbabies. My fav pic had my granddaugjter's 1 yeat old hand reaching in to grab the baseball I use for size reference.

hopeandjoystudios

·1 year ago

hopeandjoystudios

·1 year ago

Omg typos and I can't edit! Lol.. batch shot ..not atch shlt!

TuttiCreative

·1 year ago

I'm so grateful for all your support, kindness, and the time you take to help. Feeling truly lucky to be part of such an uplifting community.

CodysKorner

·1 year ago

This has given me many wonderful ideas of how to display items to potential customers in a great and new way thank you!

HantiseHome

·1 year ago

thanks a lot.

LegaciesArtShop

·1 year ago

Doesn't this complicate which item is being listed?

LegaciesArtShop

·1 year ago

Doesn't this complicate which item is being listed?

TheCozyBungalowShop

OP1 year ago

It’s only one image, showing it styled in a vignette. The title, description and nine other images make it clear what’s being offered.

ABCJewelryMart

·1 year ago

thank you

HGKDesignerPearls

·1 year ago

I love the photos

TheJoyfulDoorJL

·1 year ago

Thank you so much for your help with this!

OldPapit

·1 year ago

As of now, I haven't listed 100 pieces. I can change the gas in the tube, I want a lighter

OktaysAtelier

·1 year ago

Thank you!

JINGERCRAFTING

·1 year ago

my brain got it,but My hand did not

HappyToysFelt

·1 year ago

<span class="">Thank you so much for sharing your experience! Great idea and wonderful photos. I will definitely try it in my store.</span>

MyWorldMyStore

·1 year ago

When you see such photographs, you can't help but imagine your own products or designs in such aesthetic and striking frames. I am sure that every product would add value to its value with such a professional and artistic presentation and would reach many more people.

KimStattiCeramics

·1 year ago

Very motivating. Cross promoting in pictures is genius, thank you for the idea.

SilverHercai

·1 year ago

Good article that provides guidance thanks.

Chiyacrafts

·1 year ago

Thank you for your guide,

My photography is good or not ?

UNIQUEWORLDCREATION

·1 year ago

THANK YOU FOR THE ADVICE AN MOTIVATION

DonkDigital

·1 year ago

Thanks for the tips!

EraGalleryArt

·1 year ago

Thanks

ForeverLeatherGoods

·1 year ago

It's really inspiring. I will definitely use it to photograph my new products. Thank you

InstaBundlesShop

·1 year ago

thank you

ArtistycaPrints

·1 year ago

Beautiful pics, intriguing and engaging! Your products are amazing and they deserve this kind of presentation! Very very helpful tips for shop selling physical products!

GPStudioShop

·1 year ago

It's impossible to look away from your photos!

GPStudioShop

·1 year ago

Do customers read the description? In my photo there is a piece of vinyl record, guitar picks and a guitar box for them. Everything is beautiful and harmonious. The description says that the record is not for sale. However, when the goods arrived, the customer had a question "where is the record?" :). Fortunately, this was an isolated incident. But you need to be on your guard!

GPStudioShop

·1 year ago

TheCozyBungalowShop

OP1 year ago

It hasn’t been an issue for me this far, but we should definitely all have shop policies in place.

CreativeFashion2022

·1 year ago

Thank you！

LorettasCottage

·1 year ago

Thanks for sharing your photography techniques and tips. Your shop is very lovely and intriguing!

LionCarpeT

·1 year ago

Wow, this is amazing! I love your way of arranging things—so creative and beautifully done

tulipmarble

·1 year ago

hello