Not a professional photographer and don't have a high-end camera? No problem. Here's some tips for taking pics with only a smartphone.
1. Your Space
Make sure your product is clean, lighting is good (natural light is best), and the backdrop/setting isn't too complicated. The backdrop can be a whiteboard or curved white paper. Your product should be the focus of the photo
2. Additional Lenses
Does your product require close-ups or wide angles because of size? Consider getting specialized lenses for your camera or smartphone.
3. Choose Appropriate Settings
Select the largest file size and highest resolution settings allow on camera or smartphone. This allows the highest quality image and details. It may be too large for final use, but this can be reduced later if needed. Remember: it can't be increased later if wanted.
4. Clean Your Lens
Your image is only as good as your lens. Make sure to clean it before photoshoot. Especially with smartphones as they are in pockets, purses, and other places with dirt and grime.
5. Steady Your Camera
Get a small tripod. It's a small purchase, but can provide a lot of help. Once you've created a "perfect shot," you can replicate it many times. It will also prevent blurring requiring shots to be retaken.
6. Avoid Common Mistakes
- Use your rear-facing camera instead of your selfie cam:—Usually has the best resolution and easier handling.
- Flash off: Use as much natural light as possible. If more light is still needed, two LED lights can be used and are affordable.
- No zooming in: Digital zoom lessens quality. Need a close up; move closer.
- Take enough detailed photos: Take photos of all angles: top, bottom, left, right, front, back, close, far, and anywhere else you can imagine. And anything a customer's hand would touch like buttons, zippers, ribbons, controls, etc.
7. Editing
Your smartphone or desktop computer has photo editing tools. And you don't need much. Make sure it's bright enough, boost contrast so whites and blacks are strong, adjust "warmth" to make sure white doesn't look "dirty," and add a bit of clarity.
8. Trial and Error Experimenting.
Try to have fun. Some things will look good. Some will not. Adjusting will always be necessary. For example, I have less natural sunlight available in the winter than in the summer, which requires using LED lights. The summer sun is more yellow that I have to edit the warmth. And look at other shop's set ups and use them as inspiration.
