How to Elevate Your Product Photography

While many sellers may attempt to take their own product photos, hiring a professional photographer can make a significant difference in presentation quality for platforms like Takealot.com. Here are a few tips that will assist you.

Professional Quality

Photographers make use of high-end equipment and techniques to ensure that every image meets or exceeds the e commerce platform’s stringent requirements. Professional photography enhances the perceived value of your products, making them more appealing to potential buyers.

Expertise in eCommerce Standards

Understanding the specific requirements for eCommerce platforms is crucial for success. A product photographer is well-versed in these standards and ensures that all images conform to platforms guidelines, reducing the risk of listing rejections due to poor image quality.

Streamlined Process

It is important to choose a company  so you can focus on other aspects of your business while leaving the photography to experts. The process needs to be efficient; products to be send your photographer, and they will handle everything from shooting to editing.

Important factors to consider when loading products

Look for a supplier that offers tailored packages for resellers based on their specific needs—whether you have a single item or an extensive inventory, they can accommodate various requirements without compromising quality.

When uploading images to your eCommerce platform, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can lead to rejected listings or diminished sales potential. Here are some critical mistakes to steer clear of:

  1. Ignoring Image Specifications

all platforms have specific requirements for product images that must be adhered to strictly. Common mistakes include:

  • Incorrect File Format: Ensure your images are in either .jpg/.jpeg or .png format. Using unsupported formats will lead to rejection
  • Background Issues: All images must feature a pure white background—transparent backgrounds are not acceptable. This is crucial for maintaining a professional appearance
  • Resolution and Size: Images should have a minimum resolution of 72 DPI and must not exceed a file size of 2MB. Additionally, dimensions should be between 600px and 2048px on any side 
  1. Poor Image Composition

The way your product is framed can significantly impact its appeal:

  • Frame Fill: Ensure that your product occupies 85% to 95% of the image frame. This helps potential buyers focus on the item itself rather than the surrounding space
  • Aspect Ratio: Use an aspect ratio close to square or one of the accepted ratios (4:3, 3:2, 16:9, etc.). Avoid using an 8:1 ratio as it will be rejected
  1. Lack of Variety in Images

Uploading only one image for a product can be detrimental:

  • Multiple Angles: Provide several images from different angles to give buyers a comprehensive view of the product. This includes close-ups of important details
  • Lifestyle Shots: Including at least one lifestyle image can help customers envision how they might use the product in real life, enhancing its appeal
  1. Neglecting Product Preparation

The presentation of your product is vital:

  • Clean and Flawless Items: Ensure that products are clean and free from fingerprints or blemishes before photographing them. A poorly presented item can lead customers to perceive it as low quality
  • Proper Lighting: Utilise good lighting conditions to avoid shadows or poor visibility, which can detract from the overall quality of your images
  1. Inconsistent Photography Style

Uniformity in your product images is key:

  • Consistent Backgrounds and Styles: Maintain a consistent background and photographic style across all your listings. Mixing styles can create a disjointed appearance that may confuse potential buyers
  • Avoid Distractions: Ensure that backgrounds are plain and free from clutter, allowing customers to focus solely on the product
  1. Failing to Review Before Uploading

Always double-check your images before submission:

  • Quality Control: Review each image for clarity, adherence to specifications, and overall presentation quality. Any errors could result in rejections and additional work
  • Compliance with Guidelines: Familiarise yourself with the image guidelines of the e commerce platforms and ensure all your images meet these standards before uploading

By avoiding these common mistakes when uploading your images you can enhance your product listings’ effectiveness, improve customer engagement, and ultimately increase sales on this competitive platform.

The best selling platforms in South Africa

Selling products online can be a lucrative venture, especially on platforms like Takealot.com, South Africa’s leading eCommerce marketplace. With its vast reach and trusted reputation, Takealot offers resellers an excellent opportunity to showcase their products. However, one crucial aspect of selling on Takealot is ensuring that your product photos meet specific requirements.

Takealot vs Amazon

Takealot.com is akin to Amazon in South Africa, providing a platform for sellers to list both new and used products. Here are several compelling reasons to consider selling on these platforms.

  • Large Audience Reach: As one of the largest eCommerce platforms in South Africa, Takealot attracts millions of potential buyers. This extensive reach increases your chances of making sales compared to lesser-known platforms.
  • User-Friendly Setup: Setting up a seller account on Takealot is straightforward. The platform’s intuitive interface allows you to list your products quickly and efficiently.
  • Competitive Fees: Takealot offers competitive commission rates, enabling you to retain more profit from your sales. This financial advantage is vital for resellers looking to maximise their earnings.

To sell successfully on Takealot, you must provide high-quality product images that adhere to specific guidelines. Here’s a breakdown of those requirements:

Image Format and Size

  • Dimensions: Photos must be a maximum of 2048 pixels by 2048 pixels on any side and at least 600 pixels on any side.
  • File Format: Acceptable formats include .jpg/.jpeg or .png.
  • File Size: The maximum file size allowed is 2MB.
  • Resolution: Images should have a minimum resolution of 72 DPI.

Background and Composition

  • White Background: All product images must feature a pure white background (transparent backgrounds are not permitted). This helps your products stand out and appear more professional.
  • Composition: Your product should occupy 85% to 95% of the frame. The preferred colour mode is sRGB, and the aspect ratio should be as close to square as possible or in ratios such as 4:3, 3:2, 16:9, or 5:4.

Conclusion

Selling on credible platforms presents an excellent opportunity for resellers in South Africa looking to expand their online presence. However, meeting the platform’s photo requirements is essential for attracting customers and increasing sales. By utilising professional photography services, you can ensure that your product images are not only compliant but also captivating enough to stand out in a competitive marketplace. Investing in high-quality photography is not just about meeting requirements; it’s about enhancing your brand image and improving customer trust. With clear, professional images, you’ll be well on your way to success!