How to Photograph Items for Resale: Complete Photography Guide 2026

Your photos are your storefront. In the reselling world, buyers can’t touch, inspect, or try on items before purchasing—they rely entirely on your images to make buying decisions. Master product photography for resellers and you’ll sell faster, earn more per item, and deal with fewer returns. Neglect it, and you’re leaving money on the table with every listing.

The difference between amateur and professional-looking photos often determines whether an item sells for $50 or $150. Studies consistently show that listings with high-quality images sell 30-50% faster and command 20-40% higher prices than identical items with poor photography. That’s not marginal—that’s the difference between a profitable reselling business and a break-even hobby.

This guide covers everything you need to know about how to take photos for eBay, Poshmark, Mercari, Facebook Marketplace, and every other platform. Whether you’re shooting with a smartphone or dedicated camera, processing ten items a week or a hundred, you’ll learn techniques that turn average listings into scroll-stopping sales magnets.

Phone vs Camera: What Equipment Do You Actually Need?

The Smartphone Reality

Here’s the truth most photography guides won’t tell you: modern smartphones produce images that are indistinguishable from entry-level DSLRs for resale purposes. If you’re shooting with an iPhone 13 or newer, Samsung Galaxy S21 or newer, or Google Pixel 6 or newer, you already have a camera capable of professional results.

Smartphone Advantages:

• Zero learning curve—you already know how to use it
• Instant upload to listing platforms via apps
• Excellent automatic exposure and color correction
• Portrait mode creates professional-looking depth of field
• Built-in editing tools that rival desktop software

When Smartphones Excel:

• Clothing and fashion items
• Small electronics and accessories
• Books, media, and collectibles
• Jewelry and watches (with proper lighting)
• General household items

When to Invest in a Dedicated Camera

Dedicated cameras make sense for high-volume sellers processing 50+ items weekly, sellers specializing in items requiring macro detail (coins, stamps, vintage jewelry), or those building a brand where image consistency matters.

Entry-Level Camera Recommendations:

Recommended Lenses:

• 35mm f/1.8 ($150-250): Perfect for clothing flat lays and medium items
• 50mm f/1.8 ($100-200): Classic portrait lens, great for shoes and bags
• Macro lens ($300-500): Essential for jewelry, coins, and detail shots

The honest assessment: if you’re processing fewer than 30 items weekly, stick with your smartphone. Invest the camera budget in lighting equipment instead—it’ll make a bigger difference in your results.

Lighting: The Single Most Important Factor

Lighting separates amateur snapshots from professional product photography. You can have the best camera in the world, but poor lighting will produce poor results. Conversely, excellent lighting makes even budget smartphones look professional.

Natural Light: Free and Effective

Natural light is the most flattering, most accessible, and most forgiving light source available. It’s also completely free.

The Ideal Natural Light Setup:

1. Position near a large window (north-facing windows provide the most consistent light)
2. Shoot during the “golden hours”—10am to 2pm for indirect, even light
3. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows and blown-out highlights
4. Use a white foam board ($3-5 at dollar stores) opposite the window as a reflector

Natural Light Limitations:

• Inconsistent throughout the day and across seasons
• Unsuitable for evening or early morning shooting sessions
• Weather-dependent (cloudy days actually produce better results than sunny ones)
• Color temperature shifts as the day progresses

Artificial Lighting: Control and Consistency

For serious resellers shooting 20+ items weekly, artificial lighting provides the consistency and control that natural light can’t match.

Budget Lighting Setup ($50-100):

• Two adjustable desk lamps with daylight bulbs (5000-5500K color temperature)
• Position at 45-degree angles on either side of your subject
• Use white poster board as a reflector to fill shadows

Mid-Range Lighting Setup ($150-300):

• Softbox kit with two lights ($80-150 for a complete kit)
• LED panels like the Neewer 660 ($80-100 each)
• Adjustable light stands for positioning flexibility

Professional Lighting Setup ($400-800):

• Studio strobes with softbox modifiers
• LED continuous lighting panels with adjustable color temperature
• Light tent or photography box for small items

Equipment Recommendations with Prices:

Three-Point Lighting Explained

The classic three-point lighting setup works for virtually any product:

1. Key Light: Your main light source, positioned at 45 degrees to the subject’s front-left or front-right
2. Fill Light: Secondary light at lower intensity opposite the key light, softening shadows
3. Back Light: Optional light behind or above the subject, creating separation from the background

For most resale photography, a simplified two-point setup (key + fill) produces excellent results without complexity.

Backgrounds: Clean, Consistent, Professional

Your background choices communicate professionalism and build buyer trust. Cluttered, inconsistent backgrounds signal amateur seller and reduce perceived value.

White Backgrounds: The Universal Standard

White backgrounds are platform-safe, universally professional, and allow your items to be the star. eBay, Amazon, and most professional marketplaces prefer or require white backgrounds for main listing images.

White Background Options:

• Poster board ($3-5): Cheap and replaceable when dirty
• Seamless paper rolls ($25-40): Professional studios use this; available in 4-foot and 9-foot widths
• Fabric sweep ($20-40): Reusable, wrinkle-prone but effective
• Lightbox/tent ($25-150): Built-in white background, ideal for small items

Pro Tip: Create a seamless “infinity” sweep by curving your background from horizontal surface to vertical wall. This eliminates the visible horizon line where floor meets wall.

Alternative Background Strategies

While white dominates, other backgrounds work well for specific categories:

Gray Backgrounds:

• Excellent for silver jewelry, white items, and electronics
• Professional without the harshness of pure white
• Hides minor dust and imperfections

Black Backgrounds:

• Dramatic for luxury items, watches, and gold jewelry
• Creates a premium, high-end aesthetic
• Challenging to light properly without reflections

Lifestyle/Styled Backgrounds:

• Effective for Poshmark, Depop, and fashion-focused platforms
• Wooden surfaces, marble tiles, or fabric textures
• Should complement, not compete with, your item

Wood/Natural Textures:

• Great for vintage, artisanal, and bohemian items
• Creates warmth and authenticity
• Popular on Etsy and Instagram-driven platforms

Background Investment Priority

If budget is limited, prioritize backgrounds in this order:

1. Large white foam board ($5)
2. Gray seamless paper roll ($30)
3. Portable lightbox for small items ($40)

Camera Settings and Techniques

Smartphone Photography Settings

iPhone Settings:

• Enable Grid (Settings > Camera > Grid) for composition alignment
• Use Portrait mode for shoes, bags, and medium-sized items
• Tap to focus, then swipe up/down to adjust exposure
• Shoot in Photo mode, not Live Photo (saves storage, reduces blur)
• Enable ProRAW if available for maximum editing flexibility

Android Settings:

• Enable gridlines in camera settings
• Use Pro/Manual mode for white balance control
• Set white balance to “Daylight” for artificial lighting consistency
• Avoid digital zoom—move physically closer instead

DSLR/Mirrorless Settings

For dedicated cameras, these settings produce consistent, professional results:

Recommended Starting Settings:

• Aperture: f/8 to f/11 for product photography (sharpest range for most lenses)
• ISO: 100-400 (lower is better; avoid visible noise)
• Shutter Speed: 1/125 or faster for handheld; any speed works with tripod
• White Balance: 5000-5500K for daylight/artificial, or use custom measurement
• File Format: RAW for maximum editing flexibility, JPEG for speed

Focus Tips:

• Use single-point autofocus aimed at the most important feature
• For flat items (clothing, books), ensure your camera is parallel to the item to maintain focus across the entire surface
• Use manual focus for macro shots and detailed close-ups

Essential Composition Techniques

Rule of Thirds: Enable your camera’s grid overlay. Place key elements along grid lines or at intersection points for naturally pleasing compositions.

Fill the Frame: Your item should occupy 70-80% of the image. Excessive empty space around items makes them appear smaller and less significant.

Consistent Angles: Shoot all similar items from identical angles. This creates a cohesive, professional storefront appearance and helps buyers compare items easily.

Multiple Angles: Every listing needs multiple perspectives:

• Front/main view
• Back view
• Left and right sides
• Top-down (for clothing, accessories)
• Close-ups of details, logos, labels
• Condition shots (imperfections, wear)

Photographing Different Product Categories

Clothing and Apparel

Clothing photography divides into two approaches: flat lay and hanging/mannequin.

Flat Lay Method:

• Lay items flat on a clean white surface
• Smooth all wrinkles (steamer is essential equipment)
• Style naturally—don’t overstuff or stretch
• Shoot directly overhead for consistency
• Best for: t-shirts, pants, shorts, accessories

Hanging Method:

• Use invisible hangers or clear plastic hangers
• Hang against a white wall or seamless backdrop
• Steam immediately before shooting
• Best for: dresses, blazers, structured items

Mannequin Method:

• Dress mannequin torso or full form
• Creates shape and helps buyers visualize fit
• Invest in a good mannequin ($50-150) if clothing is your primary category
• Best for: fitted items, professional clothing

Essential Clothing Shots:

1. Full front view
2. Full back view
3. Brand tag/label close-up
4. Size tag close-up
5. Fabric content tag
6. Any flaws or wear (required for accurate representation)
7. Detail shots (buttons, zippers, unique features)

Electronics and Tech

Electronics require special attention to cleanliness and detail.

Preparation:

• Clean screens with microfiber cloth (fingerprints are deal-killers)
• Remove dust from ports and crevices with compressed air
• Power on devices to show working condition when possible
• Remove personal stickers and residue

Photography Tips:

• Avoid reflections on screens—angle device or adjust lighting
• Show all ports and connectivity options
• Include power-on shots demonstrating functionality
• Photograph all included accessories (cables, cases, original boxes)
• Document any scratches or wear honestly

Shoes and Footwear

Shoe photography is an art form that significantly impacts sale prices.

Standard Shoe Shots:

1. Side profile (both shoes together, angled)
2. Front view (toe boxes facing camera)
3. Back view (heels visible)
4. Top-down view showing inside
5. Sole close-up (shows wear honestly)
6. Brand logo/label
7. Size tag inside
8. Any scuff, wear, or damage

Presentation Tips:

• Stuff with tissue paper to maintain shape
• Clean soles with magic eraser before shooting
• Use shoe trees for dress shoes and boots
• Position at slight angle for dynamic presentation

Jewelry and Small Items

Small items demand close-up capability and precise lighting.

Equipment Needs:

• Macro lens or smartphone macro attachment ($15-30)
• Lightbox eliminates harsh shadows
• Ring light provides even, consistent illumination
• Ruler or coin for scale reference

Technique:

• Use a tripod to eliminate camera shake at macro distances
• Manual focus for precise control
• Photograph against gray or black backgrounds (white reflects into silver/gold)
• Include scale reference in at least one photo
• Multiple angles showing all facets and conditions

Photo Editing: Quick Fixes That Sell

Raw photos rarely upload directly to listings. Quick editing transforms good photos into great ones.

Smartphone Editing Apps

Free Options:

• Snapseed (iOS/Android): Professional-level controls, completely free
• Google Photos: Basic adjustments with one-tap enhancements
• iPhone Photos App: Surprisingly capable built-in editing

Premium Apps ($3-10):

• Lightroom Mobile: Industry standard, syncs with desktop version
• VSCO: Great presets, popular with fashion resellers
• TouchRetouch: Removes background distractions, worth every penny

Essential Edits for Every Photo

Brightness/Exposure: Listing photos should be slightly brighter than real life. Increase exposure 10-20% for inviting, professional appearance. Avoid overexposing—blown-out whites lose detail.

White Balance: Ensure whites appear white, not yellow or blue. This is critical for accurate color representation. Buyers return items that look different than photos.

Contrast: Moderate contrast increase (10-15%) adds punch and visual interest without looking over-processed.

Crop and Straighten:

• Center your item within the frame
• Straighten any tilted horizons
• Maintain consistent framing across listings

Background Cleanup: Use TouchRetouch or similar apps to remove dust spots, background distractions, or floor shadows.

Batch Editing for Efficiency

High-volume sellers need efficient workflows:

1. Create a preset with your standard adjustments
2. Apply preset to all photos from a shooting session
3. Make individual tweaks only where necessary
4. Export at platform-optimal sizes

Desktop Software for High Volume:

• Adobe Lightroom: $10/month, industry standard, excellent batch processing
• Capture One: $15/month, superior color handling
• Darktable: Free, open-source Lightroom alternative

Platform-Specific Photo Requirements

Each platform has different requirements and buyer expectations. Optimize accordingly.

eBay Photo Requirements

• Minimum: 500 x 500 pixels
• Recommended: 1600 x 1600 pixels for zoom functionality
• Format: JPEG preferred
• Background: White preferred for search visibility
• Quantity: Up to 24 free photos—use them all
• First Photo: Most important; this appears in search results

eBay’s search algorithm favors listings with more photos. For maximum visibility, include 8-12 images minimum. Check our eBay Listing Optimization Guide for more tips on creating listings that rank and convert.

Poshmark Photo Specifications

• Dimensions: Square format (1:1 ratio)
• Recommended: 1080 x 1080 pixels
• Cover Photo: Critical—this is your scroll-stopping moment
• Style: Lifestyle and styled flat lays perform better than plain white
• Quantity: 8 photos maximum

Poshmark is visual-first. Your cover photo determines whether shoppers click. Invest extra time in that first image.

Mercari Photo Guidelines

• Recommended: 720 x 720 pixels minimum
• Format: Square preferred for app display
• Quantity: Up to 12 photos
• Background: Clean backgrounds preferred; white performs best
• Mobile-First: Most Mercari browsing happens on phones—optimize for small screens

Facebook Marketplace

• Dimensions: Flexible, but 1200 x 628 pixels optimal
• Format: JPEG or PNG
• Quantity: Up to 10 photos
• Background: Lifestyle images often outperform plain backgrounds
• Context: Include scale references—buyers want to understand size

Depop Photography Style

• Aspect Ratio: Square (1:1)
• Size: 1080 x 1080 pixels
• Style: Authentic, editorial, “Instagram-worthy”
• Modeling: Worn items consistently outperform flat lays
• Aesthetic: Your personal style is your brand on Depop

Building an Efficient Photo Station

For consistent, high-quality results across hundreds of items, build a dedicated photography station.

Budget Photo Station ($50-100)

Components:

• Folding table ($20-30)
• Two desk lamps with daylight bulbs ($15-20)
• White foam board backdrop ($5)
• Tripod or phone mount ($15-25)
• White reflector board ($3)

Setup: Place table near window for supplemental natural light. Position desk lamps at 45-degree angles. Mount white foam board behind table, curved onto surface for seamless background.

Professional Photo Station ($300-500)

Components:

• Sturdy 4x4 foot table ($50-100)
• Two-light softbox kit ($100-150)
• Seamless paper roll with stand ($60-80)
• Quality tripod with phone/camera mount ($50-100)
• LED light panel for fill ($50-80)

Setup: Dedicate a permanent corner or closet to photography. Pre-position all equipment for quick shooting sessions. Consistent setup ensures consistent results.

Speed Photography: High-Volume Workflow

Reselling profitability depends on volume efficiency. Streamline your photography workflow:

Batch Processing Method

1. Preparation Session: Gather all items to photograph, clean and prep everything at once
2. Photography Session: Shoot all items consecutively without stopping to edit or list
3. Editing Session: Batch edit all photos with consistent settings
4. Listing Session: Upload and create listings in rapid succession

Time Targets

Efficient resellers target these benchmarks:

• Simple items (books, media): 2-3 minutes per item including all photos
• Medium items (electronics, household): 5-7 minutes per item
• Complex items (clothing, shoes): 8-12 minutes per item
• Detailed items (jewelry, collectibles): 15-20 minutes per item

Workflow Optimization Tips

• Create a checklist of required shots for each category
• Position items in a queue on your workspace
• Shoot all angles of one item before moving to the next
• Name files systematically (SKU_angle_01.jpg) for easy organization
• Upload to cloud storage immediately for backup and mobile access

Common Photography Mistakes to Avoid

Inconsistent Lighting: Mixing natural and artificial light creates color casts. Choose one source and stick with it for entire shooting sessions.

Distracting Backgrounds: Remove all clutter visible in frame. That pile of laundry in the corner? Buyers notice.

Wrong White Balance: Yellow-tinted photos look amateur and misrepresent item colors. Fix white balance in editing if you didn’t nail it in camera.

Insufficient Photos: More photos = more confidence = more sales. Don’t be lazy with your angle count.

Over-Editing: Overly saturated, filtered photos misrepresent items and lead to returns. Edit for accuracy, not Instagram likes.

Ignoring Flaws: Not photographing defects leads to returns and negative feedback. Document everything honestly.

Poor Focus: Blurry photos kill sales instantly. Use adequate lighting and proper technique to ensure sharpness.

Shooting in Low Light: Grainy, dark photos communicate unprofessionalism. Add more light or wait for better conditions.

Conclusion

Product photography for resellers isn’t about artistic expression—it’s about clear, honest representation that builds buyer confidence and justifies your pricing. Master the fundamentals covered in this guide, and you’ll see measurable improvements in sell-through rates, final prices, and customer satisfaction.

Start with what you have. Your smartphone and a $20 investment in basic lighting and backgrounds can produce results that rival professional studios. As your volume and revenue grow, reinvest in equipment that removes friction from your workflow.

The most important step? Start practicing. Photograph items you already own. Compare your results to top sellers in your categories. Iterate, improve, and watch your reselling business transform through the power of professional photography.

Ready to put your photos to work? Use Underpriced to analyze your inventory and find hidden profit opportunities across all your marketplaces.