A Guide To Product Photography Backgrounds

Photography is one of, if not the most, important aspects of selling online. Customers only have your photos to go by and good photos may be the tipping point between a sale or no sale.

Here we'll be looking at the different types of backgrounds you can give to your products to show them off to their fullest.

White or Clean Backgrounds

honeypips  /  Mountain Girl Soap

White or clean backgrounds show off your products without any fancy backdrops or other items that might distract from it. 

It is a very simple approach and shows exactly what the buyer is getting. This look can be achieved using a light tent or by playing around with your original photos using a site called Fotofuze.

They give the photo a professional air, which could lead them to being featured in blogs, treasuries or magazines more than others, although this isn't always the case.

Wooden Backgrounds

PromisePottery  /  TidalCreations

If your items are rustic or perhaps too light for white/clean backgrounds, then a wooden background may suit you.

Wooden backgrounds give a natural feel so are perfect for items that are shabby chic inspired and give an outdoorsy feel to your products. There are lots of types of wood, so choose one that compliments your items well.

You don't have to spend a lot to achieve this look and if wood isn't working for you, there are other natural backgrounds you can use such as grass, rocks, slate and bark.

Real Life Models

EngramClothing  /  Cut Copy Create

This isn't so much a background, but rather a way to display your products. Some products such as clothes and bags for example, might be more appealing to a buyer if seen on a real life model, so they can imagine the sizings better.

Real life models can have many backgrounds, such as a professional white or colour backdrop or a outdoor background, showing how they might use your product during day to day life.

Models can also work for badges, jewellery and baby clothing just to name a few. Maybe experiment with plastic models and real people to see what works best.

Framed vs Unframed

Diary Of A Design Queen  /  Kiki Mood

Most sellers usually show a framed and unframed picture of their prints now anyway, but the way you display both can be done in different ways.

Where will the frame be located? In a living room, bedroom, kitchen or bathroom? Maybe the location depends on the print or colours?

If unframed, will it be photographed flat or propped up? Will you use a dark or light background? There's lots to consider!

Overall

There are many other types of backgrounds and display methods depending on what you're selling, so a lot of it is down to experimenting.

Try to use the Macro setting on your camera to get a clearer shot and if you've got a nice day, try using natural light instead of artificial. 

Don't be afraid to ask others which photos they prefer and although it can be frustrating and time consuming, it should be worth it in the end :)

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