As I was examining my photos for my Etsy store, as well as, watching videos on how to improve my store, I discovered that I needed to do something to improve the quality of the photos so that the customers would see the product as I saw it. Previously, I would take each item outside into the natural light, as suggested, however, the light moves, of course, and the images were not consistent. So, I began to read about how to improve my images and found the Table Top Photo Photography Studio Lighting Light Tent Kit. It was a choice whether to make my own or purchase one premade. I looked at many and found this one at a reasonable cost and purchased it. The premise is that you take each photo using a white background inside the tent using table top lights. The final product is an image that is consistent, lighting is accurate, and you can replicate each image in a more precise manner. This may seem obvious to a photography student but as a store owner who is focusing on the product, it is great to find how to make a better connection between your handmade items and your future customers.
Over a period of a week, I took ten photos (plus) of each item within my store and I am very happy with the outcome. Now, rather than taking my items outside on a bright day, I can set up the lights on the table using the lighting tent and get more consistent photos that more closely show the details of my work.
Here is an example of the before and after photos of my Saint Benedict One Decade Garnet Rosary taken before using a tablecloth and the outdoor indirect lighting and afterward, two of my photos using the tent:
I am super happy with the outcome. For more examples of my photos, visit my Etsy store:
Let Our Light Shine
God Bless,
Jen
