The need for bags is rising, particularly among working women who depend on durable bags to get them through their hectic days. These bags serve as more than simply accessories; they are vital components of their ensembles, dependable allies, status symbols, and portable safes.
Many people think that shoes and purses should be the two most expensive pieces in a woman’s wardrobe, with everything else coming in second.
As the majority of buyers, women are frequently easier to persuade to purchase goods, particularly something as functional, timeless, and adaptable as a purse.
Nearly 40% of eCommerce sales come from impulse buys.
So, what makes customers eager to spend?
- Stunning, high-quality images
- Attractive prices with discounts
- Fear of Missing Out from limited-time offers
Professional bag photography can help your sales in many ways, but the most important thing is to avoid the problem that comes with bad photos: customers will leave your site right away.
If you don’t take high-resolution, high-quality pictures, you might look sloppy and untrustworthy. This could cause your customers to lose trust in you and, eventually, their business.
Especially when it comes to bags, showcasing all the nifty features and that undeniable swag can be tricky. This guide will have you shooting bag photos that’ll make even Mary Poppins say, “Now that’s a bag with some serious posing potential!”
Why Professional Photos Matters in eCommerce Sales
Think about it. You’re scrolling through an eCommerce site, phone in hand, and BAM! A blurry picture of a bag attacks your eyeballs. Can you even tell if it’s a gym bag or a sophisticated satchel for channeling your inner Indiana Jones? No? Exactly.
High-quality, professional images are your store’s window display. They draw customers in, convey the quality and details of your products, and significantly impact your sales. Crisp, clean, and captivating photos are essential to make your bags stand out in the crowded online marketplace.
Understanding the Fundamentals Before Shooting
Before you grab your camera, let’s talk about the basics. First, know your bag. Is it a luxurious leather handbag, a sporty backpack, or a chic evening clutch? Each type of bag has unique features that should be highlighted. Next, consider the angle and composition. Aim for shots that show the bag’s functionality and style – think front, back, sides, and interior. A consistent style and background help maintain a cohesive look across your product range.
The Equipment You Need
You don’t need a Hollywood budget to get started, but a few essentials will make a world of difference:
- Camera: A DSLR or a high-quality mirrorless camera. Smartphones can work too, but for the best results, go for a camera with manual settings.
- Tripod: To keep your shots steady and consistent.
- Lighting: Softbox lights or continuous LED lights to illuminate your bag evenly.
- Background: A clean, white backdrop is a classic choice, but feel free to get creative if it suits your brand.
- Props: Stands or stuffing to help your bag keep its shape.
Setting the Stage
- Find the Perfect Spot: Natural light is your friend, but avoid direct sunlight (unless you want a blinding glare effect).
- Backdrop Magic: Iron out any wrinkles in your backdrop and position it behind your bag.
- Tripod Time: Mount your camera on the tripod and position it for the best angle (usually head-on or slightly angled).
Shooting the Image
Time to click! Ensure your camera settings are optimal: set a low ISO (100-200) to avoid graininess, use a narrow aperture (f/8-f/11) for a sharp image, and adjust the shutter speed based on your lighting. Take multiple shots from different angles – front, back, sides, top, and interior. Capture close-ups of any unique features like zippers, logos, or intricate stitching. Don’t rush – take your time to get the perfect shot. You can also place a small object (like a notebook or phone) next to the bag to show scale and add depth to the photo
Retouch the Image
We’ve captured some stunning shots of your bag, bathed in perfect lighting and showcasing every detail. But hold on, there might still be a small dust or a slightly uneven strap. Retouching can take care of this problem!
The goal here isn’t to completely transform your bag, but to enhance its natural beauty.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Dust Busters: Nobody wants to see a speck lurking on their potential new bag. Use the “spot healing” tool to zap away any unwanted dust particles or blemishes.
- Wrinkle Rescue: Leather bags can show slight wrinkles, especially if they’re new. The “clone stamp” tool can be your hero here. Simply copy a smooth area of the leather and use it to “stamp” over any wrinkles. Be subtle and work in small sections for a natural look.
- Strap Sass: Is a strap looking a little wonky? The “liquify” tool can be your friend (use it sparingly!). You can gently nudge the strap into a straighter position, but avoid making it look unnaturally rigid.
Remember: Less is More!
The key to retouching is to keep it subtle. You want to enhance the natural beauty of the bag, not create a digital Frankenstein’s monster.
Bonus Tip: Color Correction
While natural light is ideal, sometimes photos can have a slight color cast. Most editing software allows you to adjust the white balance and color temperature to achieve a more accurate representation of the bag’s true colors.
By following these simple tips, you can transform your bag photos from dusty diamonds to polished eCommerce eye candy!
Key Takeaways: Practice Makes Perfect
The best product photographers take tons of photos and learn from each shoot. Don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t a masterpiece. The more you shoot, the better you’ll get. Experiment with different angles, lighting setups, and backgrounds to find what works best for your brand. Keep your images consistent, and always aim for quality.
So grab your camera, set the scene, and let your bags shine. Happy shooting!
