"Making it work." #Mood of the season. I’ve talked with a bunch of makers, who are wary about photographing/modeling their work while in lockdown. I’m by no means an expert on the subject (you've seen my awkward #bts), but this past year of solo shoots has taught me something I want everyone to hear: When it comes to making sales, professional photos aren't a make or break factor.
There it is! I said it! Over the years, I’ve spent a lot of money to photograph products I never sold. And on the flip side, I've sold many products whose pics I quickly snapped with my iphone. So try not to stress about how profesh your at-home photoshoot is. So long as you capture the essentials, you’ll be set. Here 5 tips to help you focus you efforts:
#1 Make a shot list for each product
When you're in the middle of a shoot, it’s easy to forget things or get caught up in one shot - especially when you’re the one doing everything. So prepare a shot list beforehand. It’ll keep you on track and make sure you capture everything you want to highlight for your customer.
#2 Always photograph the basics
On a minimal background, get a pic of the front, back and 3/4 view of your product, as well as some details and a shot for scale. These might not be the most exciting images, and you might not even use them. But just in case, take them anyway. These product images need to concisely show your customers what they’d be buying. So you want to have those straight-forward images at your disposal for the listing. Trust me, you never regret having more options than you need.
#3 Find the light
Having bright, indirect light is so important, especially if you’re not well-versed in Photoshop. It allows you to take clear shots without harsh shadows and usually doesn’t require much editing. So find the good light in your home and roll with those locations. Maybe it’s by a window. Maybe it’s outside on the shady side of the house. Test out different spots and see. (I literally move half of my studio across the room whenever I do a shoot, and it’s well worth the effort.)
#4 Use what you have
Think of this as a creative challenge. How can you use what you already have to storytell around your product in beautiful and compelling ways? Do you have a wall that gets good light or a table with nice texture? Maybe that’s your location. Are there flowers growing in your yard? Add a few to spice up your flat lay. Catch my drift? You don’t have to shell out $$ for paper rolls or lighting equipment. Like you can, but it’s not necessary for a successful shoot that’s going to convert to sales.
#5 have fun with it
This shoot needs to get done so you might as well enjoy it. Put on some good music, give it your best and be patient with yourself. Behind every image I’ve taken are so many awkward outtakes, esp when I’m modeling. It can take 100+ photos to get a few good shots. Sometimes, none come out . It can be frustrating, but it’s also okay. I'm not a photographer or model. I don't have to be great at this. I just have to get it done, and that’s all you have to worry about too - getting it done. Do your best, get your products out there, and you can always go back and get professional pics taken after the lockdown is over.
These are scary, uncertain times for us all, and the fact you’re stepping out of your comfort zone to show up your business/hobby/passion is incredible! That’s an A++ in my book, and I hope you’re proud of yourself too. If you have any questions or want to show me your latest at-home shoot, you know where to find me. Good luck boo! You got this!
xKristine