Product Photography Guide

Best practices for product images that sell

Guide Sections

Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced

Reading Time: ~25 minutes

Product Photography Essentials

Great product photos are the foundation of successful e-commerce sales. They are often the first and most important interaction customers have with your products. This comprehensive guide will help you create professional-looking product photos that drive sales and build trust.

Why Product Photography Matters

  • • 93% of consumers consider visuals the key deciding factor in purchases
  • • High-quality photos can increase conversion rates by up to 30%
  • • Professional images build trust and credibility with customers
  • • Good photos reduce return rates and customer complaints
  • • Quality visuals improve search rankings and marketplace visibility

What Makes a Great Product Photo

  • • Sharp focus and clear details
  • • Consistent lighting and colours
  • • Clean, uncluttered background
  • • Multiple angles and views
  • • Accurate colour representation
  • • Professional composition
  • • High resolution (minimum 1000x1000px)
  • • Lifestyle context where appropriate

Common Photography Mistakes

  • • Poor lighting creating shadows or glare
  • • Blurry or out-of-focus images
  • • Cluttered or distracting backgrounds
  • • Inaccurate colours or white balance
  • • Too few angles or detail shots
  • • Over-editing or unrealistic appearance
  • • Low resolution or pixelated images
  • • Inconsistent style across products

Photography Style Guide for Nigerian Market

Cultural Considerations

  • • Use diverse models that represent your target audience
  • • Consider local preferences for colours and styling
  • • Show products in familiar Nigerian contexts when relevant
  • • Include size references using familiar objects
  • • Use natural, authentic styling over overly polished looks

Technical Requirements

Minimum Resolution

1000 x 1000 pixels

Recommended Size

1500 x 1500 pixels or larger

File Format

JPEG or PNG

Quick Start Tips

Get started with professional-looking photos right away:

  • • Start with natural window light - it's free and flattering
  • • Use a white sheet or poster board as a simple backdrop
  • • Take multiple shots from different angles
  • • Keep your camera or phone steady (use a tripod if available)
  • • Edit photos for consistent brightness and colour

Additional Resources

Need more help with your product photography? Check out these additional resources.