When you're setting up a webshop, high-quality product images are indispensable. Unlike a physical store, your customers can't simply pick up a product to take a closer look, which means good product photos are crucial in persuading customers to make a purchase.


1. Ensure a clear background

A clear, preferably white background redirects focus to the product itself. You can easily create a white background with a large sheet of paper, usually available at hobby and craft stores. Alternatively, take it a step further by purchasing a flexible white plastic plate (a special background material for photos).


Product images with a white background.


2. Photograph different angles

Taking photos of your products from different angles helps provide customers with a more 3D perspective, much like physically picking up and examining an item in-store. For example, when photographing shoes, show both sides of the shoe as well as the sole and lining.


Different angles of a shoe.


3. Show product details

Many products have special details, such as prints and embroidery. Close-up photos of these elements can help persuade customers to purchase your products. If you're photographing a t-shirt with a print, for example, make sure you take a close-up of the print itself.


Examples of product details.


4. Photograph all variants

If a product has multiple variants, take photos of every available variant. If you sell a t-shirt in black, grey, and navy, for example, take photos of all three variants. This way, your customers can see all the options available and select the one they want.


Different variants of a product.


5. Use atmospheric photos

If you don't want to display your products against a white background, you can opt to use atmospheric photos. Make sure the product remains clearly visible and that the background isn't distracting.


The background should also be relevant to the product. For example, if you sell beachwear, you can display your products with a beach or swimming pool in the background. Home accessories such as cushions can be photographed on a couch.


If you have enthusiastic regular customers, you can even ask them to take photos of your products and share these with you. Photos taken by satisfied buyers can often persuade new customers to place an order.


Examples of atmospheric photos.


6. Be consistent

Last but definitely not least, consistency is the key to a professional look and feel. Make sure all your product photos are the same dimensions and that you maintain a fixed style in your photography. For example, if you take photos with a white background, continue to use this background for any future products. 



Need to edit your photos?

Once you've taken your product photos, you may want to make some edits before publishing them. While programs such as Adobe Photoshop are ideal for this, not everyone has access to this type of software. If you want to edit your photos without incurring additional expenses, try these free photo editing tools: