When I started learning how to take product photos, I felt like I was throwing pasta at a wall, hoping something would stick. (Though I’m not sure what “stuck” would mean for me in photography terms.)
Like a lot of makers and craft sellers, I didn’t really know what I was doing. I’d set things up, take some photos, move things around, and hope that I got something decent.
Once in a while, I’d get a photo I actually liked. Not exactly amazing, but at least it wouldn’t look like I was shooting in a basement with an overhead light.
It was at least a small win.
But it turns out that I started doing something - simple and easy - without even thinking about it. I didn’t know at the time, but this small habit was helping me improve my photos. And still today, it’s something I make a point to do to keep getting better results.
The Small Habit That Helped Me Get Better
From my very first setup, without thinking much about it, I started doing something really simple: I took a photo of my setup.
And when I really liked how my photo came out, I’d really make it a point to take a quick photo of the setup.
I’d make sure I’d include everything from:
- Where the lighting was
- Where the product was placed
- What props I used
- What background I selected
- What tools I used
It wasn’t anything fancy or complicated. Just a quick reference to what worked for me.
How To Photograph Your Setup (Honestly, It’s Super Easy!)
The next time you’re getting your space set up, and before you start taking photos, take a quick photo of your setup.
Be sure to get a shot that shows your lighting placement, background, product, props, and anything else that would be helpful to know.
If you make any changes and you find your photos look better: Take another photo.
You can also photograph your setup from different angles, like a bird’s eye view (overhead), from where your camera is placed and so on.
And that’s it! Nothing complicated. Literally a simple photo to refer back to in the future.
(Optional) Keep a folder on your phone or computer to keep track of your setups with your results.
Pro Tip: Using your phone to take photos? Before putting it on your tripod (if you’re using one and if not, I strongly suggest it!), take a quick photo of your setup.
No tripod? Take a photo of your setup when you’re done and before you take everything down.
Or if you can, use another device (another phone, camera or even a pen and sketch book!) to document your setup. Use whatever option is accessible. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Use whatever tool will help you reference what you did later on.
Why Photographing Your Setup Works
At the time, I didn’t think I was doing anything groundbreaking.
But over time, looking back, I realized I was saving myself from trying to remember what I did before. To notice things that I may have missed in the moment.
Oh, this photo is too dark. It’s probably because my light’s too far away.
The shadows are too intense, so I should find a way to fix that.
These props feel awkward, maybe I should try something different next time.
It became a visual reference that allowed me to repeat what worked or adjust what didn’t, instead of feeling like I was starting from scratch each time.
Stack Your Progress One Photo At A Time
It can be hard to see progress, especially if you’re in the beginning stages of learning to photograph your crafts. It can feel like you’re always starting from square one, thinking “Umm, okay, now what?”
But the truth is, you’re not starting over.
The great thing is that this small, yet powerful habit of photographing your setup can help you track your progress. Having a reference to what you’ve done previously will help you learn to observe more about what you’re doing every time you take product photos.
Building your photography skills happens only by taking one photo at a time.
Your photos don’t have to be magazine-worthy or like the photos you may see online. You just have to give yourself time and space to build on what you’re learning every time you pick up your camera, even if that’s your smartphone.
Final Thoughts
When your photos don’t seem to be turning out the way you want, it can feel like you’re going around in circles. Or feel like you’re “not good at this.”
But please remember that photography is a skill that can be learned.
Building a small habit like photographing your setup can help you start understanding what’s working and why.
You’ll start to observe more about what you’re doing.
You’ll figure out what lighting makes your work look best.
You’ll see what makes your photo look better.
And most importantly, you’ll start to feel a little less confused and lost when you pick up your camera.
So the next time you photograph your work, take a photo of the setup to document your process. It’s not just a behind-the-scenes moment to share on social media, but a step towards capturing better photos of your crafts.
What’s one small win you’ve had when it comes to taking product photos? Comment below and let's celebrate - big or small, it all counts!