It might be a long title for a blog, but it’s to the point. Before getting out your armful of scarves and taking 100 photos, a little pre-planning may help. First look at other web sites to see what works and what doesn’t. Some sites are well done with clear images that show the colors and designs. However, I have seen a few that actually had blurry images! This is a definite no-no! Please retake them until you get it right. I hate to see lovely works not presented in the best light.
Here are some simple steps:
- Take your photos using natural light as much as possible. This will save time when it comes to color-correcting your images.
- Use a neutral background for your works.
- Buy a simple, inexpensive digital camera and put it on auto. You can immediately tell if the photo worked by enlarging it on your view finder.
- If your scarf has designs on it—show them! People want to see the flowers, dogs, fruit, abstract patterns, or whatever the subject matter is. You are selling your works over the web. People can’t touch, unfold, see the shimmer, or the subtle characteristics of the silk. Your photo needs to tell the story for you. For oblong scarves, I lay both ends side by side and gently twist it at the back. This shows as much detail as possible while still giving the silk some gentle folds.
- Make a copy of your original high-resolution images before you reconfigure them to web images. You may want to use them for posters, postcards, or to send to a potential customer who’s asking to see a higher resolution image before they buy. This is part of your portfolio. Once you sell your work—you can’t take another photo.
- Take some close-ups or detail photos of your work. You can always use them as accent images for your website or on your business card.
That’s all for now. Cheers!
Diane