How webshops achieve high-quality product images

WEBSHOPS Today, there is no way around high-quality product photos for online stores. But how can suitable images be obtained to present the articles in an appealing way? The Internet World trade fair has compiled the most important factors for online retailers.In online retail, product photography is an investment that is absolutely essential. On the one hand, images are important for differentiation from the competition, on the other hand, an appealing presentation of the items can be the deciding factor for or against the purchase click. When shopping online, customers cannot experience the products haptically, they are dependent on their image. Buyers appreciate it when they can see exactly what the product is about. The more accurate and better the photos are, the greater the customer's confidence in the store and in their purchase decision. If the retailer creates the images themselves, they can stand out from the competition. This is because many retailers often use the same product photos from manufacturers. But how do webshops get high-quality images? The Internet World trade fair provides an initial overview.Light, light and more lightPoorly illuminated products are a real conversion killer. This is because the quality of the images causes the customer to draw conclusions about the quality of the product or the store. It goes without saying that professionally produced product photos appear much more valuable.Mapping from above, from below and in the surroundingsIt is even better if there are different photos: e.g. a neutral one on a white or gray background and another one showing the goods in their surroundings. This makes it easy to understand the proportions without the customer having to unpack the meter measure. This also makes the product more attractive.Details matterThe store customer must be able to get an accurate picture of their desired product. Accuracy and perspective play a major role here. Zoom levels should also be designed and implemented for each product. This includes macro shots, close-ups, cut-outs and photos from a long shot. Only with this wide range of photos can the risk of returns be minimized and the customer will not be disappointed when unpacking.Self-directed product photographyThe retailer can produce the product photos themselves. Good SLR digital cameras are already available for around 600 euros. Including accessories such as flash units and photo editing software such as Photoshop, a small photo studio costs around 1,000 euros. There are software solutions for professional post-processing, some of which are already integrated into the store software. Another option is to purchase an automatic photo studio. As open systems, i.e. without automatically integrated lighting control, these are available from EUR 1,500. Closed systems with automatic lighting and cropping function cost from EUR 6,900. Whether it is worth using your own photo studio is a matter of calculation and depends on the number of product photos that the retailer requires.Outsourcing of product photographyRetailers who do not wish to take their own photos can, of course, outsource the entire process. There are now numerous service providers who specialize in the professional creation of product photos. The price depends on the desired quality and the number of display formats. Here is a rough guide: For a photo in front and rear view as well as three details, retailers will be charged 25 euros per item, including image editing. Manufacturers can expect to pay around 150 euros.