TheUnstitchd
In the competitive world of online retail, getting perfect photos of your clothes and accessories is not just an option—it’s a necessity. These photos are the visual representation of your brand and often your customers’ first interaction with your products, so they’re very important.
Great product photography can drive sales, evoke professionalism, and boost customer trust. And with our tips, you’ll be able to do all of these things while impressing your audience.
10 Steps to The Perfect Retail Photography Session
Whether you’re a boutique owner shooting new arrivals or a fashion enthusiast showcasing an outfit on Instagram, the following steps will guide you to achieving flawless product images.
Step 1: Plan Your Photoshoot
Start by assessing the clothes and accessories that you want to photograph. Identify their unique features and decide what kind of backgrounds, props, or models would complement them. Also, consider their purpose: are they for an online store or an Instagram post?
Step 2: Choose the Right Equipment
Investing in the right equipment is crucial for professional photos. A quality DSLR or mirrorless camera can be a game-changer. Also, consider getting a sturdy tripod for stable shots, external flashes for better lighting control, and diffusers or reflectors to soften harsh shadows.
Step 3: Choose the Right Editing Software
Selecting an appropriate editing software is fundamental in product photography. There are several tools on the market, but many of them are pretty complex. However, tools like Picsart allow you to edit in minutes and remove backgrounds from images with a single click.
Step 4: Prep Your Products
Before you snap a picture, make sure your clothing and accessories are in pristine condition. Clothes should be clean and free of wrinkles—a good steam prior to shooting could work wonders. For accessories, polish them until they shine, removing any smudges or fingerprints.
Step 5: Experiment With Different Angles
Avoid limiting yourself to conventional front-on shots. Be daring and experiment with various angles. A top-down angle works for flat lays, while a 45-degree perspective can add depth. Play around to discover which angles highlight the unique aspects of your clothing and accessories.
Step 6: Adjust Your Camera Settings
Don’t rely on auto mode for your photo shoots. Take control of your camera by manipulating settings like aperture, ISO, and white balance. By adjusting these settings to suit the lighting and the product you’re shooting, you can enhance the overall quality of your photographs.
Step 7: Think About Composition
Keep in mind the rule of thirds and leave some breathing room around your product. This means not overcrowding the frame but allowing for a focus on the product with enough space around it. A well-thought composition increases visual interest and the photo’s impact.
Step 8: Take Multiple Shots
One shot is never enough, so ensure you capture several photos of each product from different angles and lighting. This gives you more options to choose from during the editing process and increases the odds of getting a perfect photo that truly showcases your product’s best features.
Step 9: Be Consistent With Style
Maintaining a consistent style is key, particularly for building a brand identity. This consistency entails similar lighting, angles, and editing styles throughout all your photos. While it’s fine to experiment, once you find an aesthetic for your brand, stick with it to create a cohesive story.
Step 10: Update Regularly
Fashion is always evolving, and so should your product photos. Keep track of changing trends and update your photos regularly, either by re-shooting or freshening up the edits. Continually updated images will keep potential buyers engaged, ensuring that your store remains attractive.
In Conclusion…
Armed with these steps, you are now ready to present your clothes and accessories in the best light possible. Remember that each product has its own unique qualities and story to tell. Don’t be afraid to experiment, practice often, and always keep an eye on evolving trends.