Do you ever wonder about some other ways to photograph your line? I know I always did…..and it took some expensive shoots to teach me some simple tricks! So here is my short list of what to include when shooting your new collection. If you are not an experienced photographer or can't fake it, I suggest hiring someone as your photos are soooo important. They are the first thing people see when looking at your line and they need to convey so much through the internet or a catalog. You should be able to find someone on elance.com or even craigs list, if not at a local college, who can shoot your line for a fair price.
1. Always take one shot on a white background. It is always best for the media in case you need to provide a photo last minute in order to get the "spot".
2. Take single shots in whatever you feel best relays the feel of your brand. Be sure the item is clearly visible and the buyer can see the details.
3. I like to offer group shots of each specific collection as well as shots mixing and matching different lines that go together within my seasonal collection. Some buyers like to mix it up.
4. If you can add some lifestyle shots portraying the lifestyle of your customer, that is an added bonus. You can use these on your website and in some catalogs too.
What kind of shots do you find work best for your customers?
xoxox
Hi Sarah,
Great tips!
I recently visited a television shopping network and noted a few things that I would like to add/expand on your list:
1. When showing a clothing line in person or when producing photo images, always use a person (Similar to your target audience) to model and wear the clothes. Shoppers respond better to an actual person wearing the clothes (To your point), rather than viewing the clothes on a rack.
2. Studio photographs of models are the best presentation and should always be on a white background (To your point). For the D-I-Y types, use a white sheet & construction clip lights (Via Home Depot – caution, the lights use quite a bit of power and do generate heat).
3. For an outside setting, be sure to use a light panel to illuminate your model. This could be a simple large sheet of white cardboard (3'x3') purchased at a local crafts store. Also, be sure there are not distracting elements happening in the background.
4. When producing photos for a jewelry and/or accessory line, use a microwave as your lightbox. The microwave (Preferrably non-working to avoid possible accidents), provides a surface that is not only clean, but also creates consistent angles & lighting.
5. Always use a camera tripod for consistency (Unless you are using a professional photographer).
6. Always use a high quality digital camera (Or, the best you can afford). When hiring a pro or semi-pro photographer, always inquire about their equipment list.
The equipment list should be similar to following: A Canon DSLR (Used in Real Estate and high end photography, but could be other high resolution digital camera), optical zoom/wide lenses, 3-point light kit, a diffuser, light panel, tripod, additional or an extra secure digital high capacity (SDHC) memory card, light box (Optional), and a light meter.
Hope this helps.
Great tips! You're right, photography is incredibly important. My early photos (all taken by myself) make me shudder now, but I still have work to do. Thanks for the list!
I really like the tip of the lifestyle shot. I have been thinking about doing something different for my Real Estate profile. Thanks for the tips!
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