Pictures: 14 tips for successful sales

Pictures are a major part of an item’s description at Windup Closet. Viewers review the images in detail before even considering placing a bid. As a result, good pictures lead to higher returns. Additionally, good quality images help to prevent buyer dissatisfaction. Please have a look at our list of fourteen tips, designed to help you create the perfect visual accompaniment to your item(s).

1. Use Daylight

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Daylight helps enhance an item’s details. Lamp light obscures an item’s true colours, and flash photography can cause shading and, thus, an unattractive finish.

2. Steady your camera

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Move your camera, and your images lose focus. Use a tripod or use some other means of securing your camera when taking pictures.

3. Only depict the item(s) you’re selling

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Other items can distract potential bidders, detract from what’s on offer, or even cause confusion as to what is included. Any other items depicted should be as neutral as possible.

4. Use a neutral background

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A neutral, uniform background helps your item stand out. Consider using a sheet or a (large) piece of cardboard/paper.

5. Take pictures from all sides

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Bidders are interested in seeing as many details as possible. Therefore, you should always include images of the back, bottom, top, and sides.

6. Make sure your items are presentable and clean

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To present your item in the best light, it is worth cleaning it properly before taking pictures.

7. Use neutral points of reference

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For items of unusual or irregular dimensions, please include a reference of scale within the photo with something like a measuring tape. Please make sure the reference doesn’t detract/distract from what is on offer.

8. Accurately reflect the condition

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Signs of wear and tear or (minor) damage must be mentioned in the description, as well as very clearly depicted. This gives bidders transparency into an item’s condition and possibility of restoration/repair.

9. Tagged photo

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How to tag a photo → write your Windup Closet username, today’s date and the word “Windup Closet” on a piece of paper. Take a photo of the piece of paper placed alongside the item as proof of ownership.

10. Your best picture is your calling card

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The first image in your series of pictures will be used as the main picture, visible from the auction page. This is the picture used for gaining attention so make sure to show your item from its best angle.

11. Leave nothing out

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If your item consists of more than one item, do make sure to add at least one image showing an overview of the entire lot. This should include any manuals or certificates!

12. Avoid self-portraits

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Be aware when taking pictures of items with reflective surfaces, or reflective backgrounds.

13. Do not adjust for colour

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Processing your pictures digitally should be limited to tilting the angle, and cropping the edges. Never adjust for colour.

14. Represent relevant details

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Bidders pay very close attention to marks and stamps, serial numbers, signatures/autographs, screws, markings, labels, tags, logos, hardware, stiches, etc. Include images of any such defining features. If you're listing shoes, be sure to include photos of both shoes.