I have learned many tips and tricks that make photographing listings quick, easy, and effective since I got my start on Kidizen. For anyone who wants to start selling (and gain sales and followers in the process) my top pieces of advice are: choose a consistent and neutral background, take photos in bright, natural sunlight, use editing tools to subtly enhance them, and learn how to choose the right photos.

CHOOSE A NEUTRAL BACKGROUND
A good background is key! I find that being consistent with it works best in creating a cohesive collection for your shop. I chose a white, faux wood vinyl backdrop that I purchased from Etsy for around $20, but you don’t have to spend money to find a great surface to photograph your items on! A hardwood or tile floor in your home, a rug, or even a bedspread can serve well as your backdrop. Just make sure it is neutral, neat, consistent, and allows you to photograph in good natural light.

PICK A COLOR THAT SHOWS OFF YOUR ITEMS
I prefer lighter backgrounds because colors and patterns “pop” more due to the greater contrast. I also find that most colors photograph truer when they are against a light background.

Green Dress on Dark Background

Green Dress on Light Background

For example, I photographed this green dress first with a dark background and second against a light, and you can see the color difference based on what it is placed on.

EDIT FROM YOUR PHONE
I take hundreds of photos for my Kidizen listings and I don’t have the time to expertly edit each one. So, I shoot my photos with my iPhone and find the simple adjustments found on the photography app to be very effective! I use these tools to brighten the photo up a bit and to lessen the shadows, which can make a world of difference.

Raw Photo

Lightened Photo

For example, the photo on the left is the raw photo before any editing, and the photo on the right has been lightened a bit by sliding the adjustment to the right. My ultimate goal is to always make the clothing look as close to what I see in real life so that the buyer can get an accurate view of what they might be buying!

ADD MULTIPLE PHOTOS
Finally, I always make sure to include several photos with each of my listings. These include, but are not limited to, close-ups of any special details or fabric, any flaws that need to be mentioned, and the tag for any special sizing or brand details.