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If you want expert product photography tips for Etsy, you’ve come to the right place. At TK Digital Studio, we’ve been doing product photography for years and know that, most importantly, it should be creative and exciting. Given Etsy is one of the best platforms for selling handcrafted goods and making the most out of your creative potential, you want to make sure all your photos have the same spark.
Great product photography is crucial for capturing the attention of potential buyers, telling the story of your unique creations, and ultimately driving sales. In this blog, we will share valuable tips and techniques to help you master the art of product photography on Etsy. In this article, we’ll provide you with actionable insights to enhance the visual appeal of your listings and stand out in the competitive marketplace. Get ready to take your shop to new heights with captivating product photography tips for Etsy that will leave a lasting impression on shoppers.
What are Etsy’s visual requirements?
Etsy’s visual requirements are different to other platforms. In general, Etsy has a much greater potential for personalisation in the way you present your shop, compared to competing platforms you might be looking at product photography tips for. For example, it isn’t unusual for sellers to include a photo of themselves or their process in their profile picture to reflect their unique crafting journey and demonstrate the carefully-made nature of their goods. However, there is still a strong focus on high-quality product photography.
Your shop icon should be at least 500 x 500 pixels and your product photographs should be around 2000 pixels wide and aspect ration of 4:3. Your shop banners should also be 1200 x 300 pixels, with images in collages being 600 x 300 pixels if you have two images, 400 x 300 pixels if you have three, and 300 x 300 if you have four. Many sellers on Etsy use images that they’ve taken themselves for their listings, and you might find that your images are the wrong size.
If they’re too big, then there are lots of tools available online to reduce the resolution. However, there is no way to increase the size of your image while keeping the resolution good and the photo free from pixelation. In this case, it’s advisable to hire the services of a professional, who can do a quick and easy shoot of your beautiful products to the precise specifications of the Etsy platform, which are all listed on their website.
How can I take high-quality product photos for Etsy?
Let’s start with the studio shot. This clear and bright photo, taken against a plain background, provides customers with an accurate representation of your product. It sets realistic expectations and reduces the likelihood of returns or exchanges. By capturing your item in its best light, you create a strong foundation for enticing shoppers.
Next up are lifestyle shots, which transport your product into an aspirational setting. By showcasing your item in its natural habitat, you help shoppers envision how it can fit seamlessly into their lives. These images evoke emotions and create a desire for your product, ultimately leading to increased sales. Equally, group shots are perfect for showcasing products sold in sets or displaying variations in colour, finish, or material. By presenting your items together, you demonstrate their versatility and allow shoppers to visualise the different options available. This can be especially impactful when offering customizations or personalised options.
You should also vary the scale and scope of your photos, not just for variety, but to properly inform your customers. This is especially important on a platform like Etsy, where people are looking for something that is unique and different. Scale shots play a crucial role in providing visual cues about the size of your product. They allow shoppers to gauge the dimensions and understand how the item would physically fit into their space.
By providing this perspective, you enhance their confidence in making a purchase. You can couple your scale shots with detailed shots, which zoom in on the intricate features and textures of your product, offering customers a closer look at its quality and craftsmanship. These images help build trust and showcase the unique aspects that set your items apart from others. They are particularly effective for items with intricate details or handmade elements.
Lastly, there are a few types of product photo for Etsy that you might not usually include on other platforms. In this way, Etsy is unique. For example, you can include images of your product’s packaging or process shots that add an extra touch of appeal. Showcasing the thoughtful packaging not only enhances your brand’s image but also conveys that your product is gift-worthy. Additionally, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the production process adds a personal and authentic touch that resonates with shoppers.
How can I create a compelling brand on Etsy?
Your shop icon and cover photo are key elements that represent your brand. The shop icon should be easily understood, scalable, and memorable, conveying the essence of your shop. Likewise, your cover photo should highlight your best photography, showcase your products in action or styled images, and be refreshed occasionally to reflect seasons or occasions. Additionally, your profile photo should present a friendly and well-lit image that builds trust with buyers. By uploading a square photo that shows your face clearly, you can create a favourable impression and strengthen your brand identity.
An important product photography tip for Etsy is ensuring that, despite the freedom offered by the platform, you clearly communicate your brand image. Your product images should align with the colour palette and aesthetic of your shop, creating a cohesive look and feel. Consider developing a photo styling palette that uses consistent colours, lighting, and props to maintain visual harmony. Showcasing different perspectives, variations, and use cases of your products through photography can provide customers with a comprehensive understanding and inspire them to make a purchase. Additionally, strategically arranging the order of your product photos can help tell a compelling story and engage shoppers from the moment they see your listing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the art of product photography is essential for success on Etsy. By studying the vast array of product photography tips for Etsy out there on the internet, combined with the right techniques and attention to detail, you can create captivating images that entice shoppers, tell a visual story, and ultimately drive sales. By incorporating different types of product photos, such as studio shots, lifestyle shots, scale shots, detail shots, group shots, packaging shots, and process shots, you can provide customers with a comprehensive understanding of your products and showcase their unique features and benefits.
If you need help with product photography or videography, please contact us. You can also find us on Facebook or Instagram.
