Photo Tips for Selling Items

Great photos spark interest and sell. These seven tips will help you show your item at its best — and most honest — side.

1. Clean and tidy: Remove dust, fingerprints, or smudges before you shoot.
2. Simple background: Avoid cluttered or distracting backgrounds so the item stays front and center.
3. Plenty of light: Make sure you have good lighting — natural daylight is ideal. If that's not available, use lamps or artificial light.
4. Use different angles: Shoot from above, from the side, and at an angle — preferably in landscape orientation — to capture the item's features well.
5. Don't zoom in too close: Show the whole item in the frame. On a smartphone, tap briefly on the subject to focus.
6. Multiple photos: Show the item from different angles so potential buyers have enough information to make a purchase decision.
7. Show wear and tear: Photograph any flaws and signs of use too. Being open and honest about minor imperfections saves you arguments and disappointed buyers down the line.

Follow these simple rules and your listing photos will be the best they can be — and that often makes all the difference when it comes to selling.