Keeping Your Focus

When it comes to selecting pictures to use in your listings, there are a lot of things that should be obvious. But, if you take a look on Etsy, you will find listings which have pictures that aren't all that great. So, it's time to state some things plainly.

All your listing photos should be in focus.

The best way to ensure that you don't make this error is to take a lot of pictures when photographing your items. I mean, a lot a lot. If we assume that you're planning on having ten photos in your listing (which should be the goal), then, at minimum, you should be taking thirty pictures of your item. Although, it would not be a bad idea to take fifty shots or more when doing your photography.

Yes, this is overkill, but the idea is to select the best ten pictures. You should have a lot to choose from.

If you've been at this a while, you might know exactly what angles and views work best. But you're taking at least two of each "pose", right? That way you still have plenty of pictures to choose from.

There are photographers who deliberately choose to blur things in their photos. When you know what you're doing and you're getting the intended effect, that's fine. But those of us (like me) who aren't all that confident in their photographic skills should stick to making sure their pictures are in focus.

I will not be calling out any sellers for this, so I have some beautifully focused photos to share today.

First up, notice how this soap pops in the image:

Whipped Soap VEGAN Hot Coffee 8 oz Creme Fraiche by savor

Even in a smaller size, you can clearly see the musical notes on the plate:

Fused glass art plate by Caroline4art

We can easily see how this piece is assembled:

lidded pine needle basket with a driftwood root top by Heart of Almanor

For smaller items, like keychains, it's vital that the item is clearly photographed:

Personalized Keychain Edward Gorey by Tresijas

And see how clear this scarf is:

Silk Scarf Handpainted in Copper and Brown by Ocean Avenue Silks

How well focused are your pictures? How many photos do you take when photographing your items?

Gifty

It's the time of year when students graduate, fathers are celebrated, and birthdays begin to hit. En masse. Fun, eh?

39 Cups has several interesting mugs, some especially made for Father's Day. But I just had to feature the one for the current Zodiac sign. Just because.

Gemini Mug by 39 Cups

If you've got a little girl on your gifting list, consider giving her something fun to play in.

Woodland Fairy Tutu by Too Too Kute

Or for a boy, what's more fun than a Batman decal with his name on it (for his bedroom wall)?

11" x 20" Personalized Batman Wall Sticker by PersonalizedJewellz

If you've got a friend who loves bracelets, this would be just the thing.

Blue Water Bracelet by Steph Jordan Originals

Or this.

Tribunal Bracelet of Clockwork by The Silver Crucible

Of course, I've always been a bit more of an earring person, myself.

Green Crystal Dangle Earrings by Sweetwater Handcrafted Jewelry

Or how about a handcrafted bowl?

Straw Flower Pine Needle Basket by Heart of Almanor

Have you got a lot of gifts to give this time of year? What are some of your favorites?  

This post contributed by Liz from Zizi Rho Designs. All captions link back to the items on Etsy as well as the shops where those items came from. Make sure to check them all out.