Quick answer
Good product photos use soft, even light, a clean background, several angles, close-up details and a sense of scale or use. A modern phone works for most needs: shoot near a window, use a white or simple backdrop, keep the camera steady and edit lightly. Book a studio for premium launches and catalogues.
Key takeaways
- Light matters more than the camera
- Clean backgrounds keep focus on the product
- Show angles, details and the product in use
- Keep edits natural and consistent
Light
- Shoot near a large window with indirect light.
- Avoid harsh midday sun and mixed lights.
- Use a white board to soften shadows.
Background
- White or light grey for marketplaces.
- Simple textures (wood, linen) for Instagram.
- Keep clutter out.
Angles to capture
- Front.
- Side and back.
- Close-up of details.
- In use or worn.
- Size comparison.
Phone settings
- Clean the lens.
- Tap to focus and lower exposure slightly.
- Use a tripod or steady surface.
- Shoot in the highest quality setting.
Editing
- Adjust brightness and white balance.
- Keep colours true to the product.
- Use the same edit style across all photos.
Video
Short clips of the product in use work well for reels and listings. See reels that sell.
Studio shoots
For premium launches, catalogues and lookbooks, a studio gives control over light and backgrounds. Book Cygnus Studio in Guwahati, or read how to prepare for a studio shoot.
A simple home setup
- A table near a large window.
- A sheet of white foam board as a backdrop.
- A second white board to bounce light into shadows.
- A phone tripod.
- Tape, clips and a cloth to clean products.
This setup costs little and gives clean, consistent results.
Shot list for every product
- Main image on a clean background.
- Back and side views.
- Close-up of texture, label or detail.
- Product in use or worn.
- Scale shot next to a common object or hand.
- Packaging.
Consistency across a catalogue
Use the same background, angle, distance and edit settings for every product in a range. Consistent photos make a catalogue look professional and help buyers compare products easily.
Real example
Cafe Iniesta launched with 45+ dishes photographed for menu and social.
