Guide
What is product photography? Types, process and cost
A guide to product photography for online stores: types of product photos, how the process works, how many you need, what affects the cost and how to compare quotes.
Product photography shows a product in a way that lets shoppers see exactly what they are buying. The photos are used in online stores, on platforms, in catalogues and in ads. A good product photo shows the true colour, shape and material, and answers the questions a shopper would otherwise settle with the product in hand.
This is all I do, and I have created more than 10,000 product photos so far. In this guide I’ve gathered what companies most often ask before their first shoot.
Types of product photos
| Type | What it’s for |
|---|---|
| White background (packshot) | Online stores, platforms and catalogues. A consistent look with the product clearly visible. |
| Transparent background (cut-out) | A product cut out by hand for ads, graphics and AI tools. |
| Detail and texture | Shows the material, fastening, cream texture and other fine points. |
| Product in use | Shows how the product is used or how it looks on a mannequin. |
For most online stores a white background is the foundation, and you add the other types where they really help the shopper or the ad. You can see examples in my projects.
How many photos does one product need?
Three shots are a good start:
- a main image from the front or at a slight angle, which shoppers see in the product list,
- a second view showing the shape, back or packaging,
- a detail shot when the material, fastening or texture matters.
Not every product needs the same number of photos. Give your best sellers more views; for simple products one is often enough.
How the process works
- Enquiry. You send some basic details, with no obligation.
- Quote. After we discuss the details, you receive an exact quote.
- Shipping. Once you confirm and pay a 50% deposit, you send the products by post or courier.
- Photography and editing. I do both in my own studio. Most projects are finished within 1–2 weeks of receiving the products and the deposit.
- Delivery. You receive the photos in a private online gallery for viewing and downloading.
- Returning the products. I send the products back, prepare them for collection or, if you prefer, give them away.
You’ll find the details on the how it works page.
How much does product photography cost?
I charge per finished photo, and the price per photo goes down on larger orders. A single price list would say little across such different projects, so start by estimating the scope: number of products × photos per product.
| Project | Calculation | Total |
|---|---|---|
| A few key products | 2 products × 3 photos | 6 |
| New collection | 20 products × 2 photos | 40 |
| Full catalogue | 150 products × 1 photo | 150 |
The total also depends on:
- combined projects: if you combine several small projects into one shoot, I can offer a volume discount,
- background type: tell me in your enquiry whether you need a white background, a transparent background or both,
- type of product: please mention reflective and transparent products such as metal and glass, where precise lighting is key,
- returning the products: return costs are listed in the quote, and for returns abroad I charge the actual shipping costs,
- timing: if you’re in a hurry, ask about express production.
What you get
- JPEG at 4000 × 4000 pixels and 300 DPI, with smaller web versions on request.
- For transparent backgrounds, PNG, and TIFF or PSD on request.
- An unlimited, worldwide and perpetual licence for web, print and TV. Copyright stays with me; a full buyout is possible by arrangement.
- A free correction or reshoot if I made a mistake.
How to choose a product photographer
A low price per photo doesn’t tell you much on its own. When comparing quotes, ask:
- Is the price per photo, per product or per day?
- Is editing included?
- How, and for how long, may you use the photos?
- What format and size will you receive?
- What happens if a photo isn’t as agreed?
- Who pays for shipping and returning the products?
- Can you add new products in the same style a year from now?
Also look at photos of products similar to yours. Experience with sharp details and difficult reflections shows most clearly on metal, glass and jewellery.
Shoot it yourself or hire a photographer?
If you have just a few products and time to learn, you can start on your own. These product photography basics will help. Remember to count equipment, your time and editing. Keep in mind, too, that a consistent look gets harder to maintain once you have more than a few products.
AI tools can quickly create a creative scene, but sharpness, colours and edges must already be right in the source photo. That’s why an accurate product photo is also a good starting point for AI visuals.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between product photography and an ordinary photo of a product?
Product photography is planned for selling: the lighting, colours, sharpness and editing all serve to show the product accurately and in the same style as the rest of your range.
Are the photos suitable for Amazon and other platforms?
Yes. I prepare white backgrounds to the requirements of Amazon, Shopify and WooCommerce. If your platform has special requirements, please mention them in your enquiry.
Can I send products from another country?
Yes. I work with clients from Germany, Austria, Sweden and other European countries. I list the return shipping costs in the quote.
How do I get an exact quote?
In your enquiry, tell me what products you have and how many, how many photos you want per product, and whether you need the products back. The quote comes with no obligation.
