How to Take Pictures for eBay Items Using Studio Kit
A good photograph can help sell an item on eBay. Photographs are the only way a bidder can see exactly what they are bidding on in an online auction. Photographs verify the condition of an item, show its distinctive features, and can help the bidder see that the item's description is accurate. Proper lighting is the key to a good photograph.
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Things You'll Need
- Digital camera
- Studio kit with two or three lights
- Heavy white paper
- Product to be sold
Instructions
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Instructions
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1
Pick a contrasting background. Heavy white paper works well for most items. If your item is a light color, however, it may be better to use a darker background.
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2
Place a large box on the table.
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3
Drape the paper from the box to the edge of the table. Secure the edge of the paper on the box with tape or a heavy object. The paper will be your backdrop.
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4
Place the item in the center of the backdrop.
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5
Place one of the kit's light stands on each side of the product. If the kit comes with three lights, locate the third light above and slightly behind the item to illuminate the top of the product.
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6
Adjust the position of the lights to eliminate harsh shadows.
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7
Focus your camera on the item.
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8
Use a small aperture (from f/8 to f/16) to give yourself a large enough depth of field. Set the camera on aperture priority mode, or "A" on the camera's mode dial. With this setting, you set the aperture manually while the camera sets the shutter speed for proper exposure.
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9
Take the picture.
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10
Check the exposure using the display on the back of the camera. If the photo is overexposed, move the lights away from the subject. If the photo is underexposed, move the lights closer to the object.
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Tips & Warnings
Take more than one photograph.
Take close-ups so buyers can see details of the item.
Take pictures of the item's flaws.
Use a tripod.
Do not use your flash. Flash makes colors less vibrant, creates "hot spots" and makes unsightly reflections on the object, especially if the object is metal or plastic.
