How to Photograph Toys & Games for Reselling

Essential Photography Equipment for Toys & Games

To truly capture the appeal of the toys and games you’re reselling, you don’t need a professional camera. A smartphone with a decent camera, good lighting, and a simple backdrop can make a world of difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Smartphone Camera: Make sure your phone camera is set to the highest resolution. Clean your lens before shooting to avoid blurry images.
• Lighting Setup: Natural light is your friend — shoot near a window during the day. For consistent results, use a ring light or a light box, especially for smaller items like action figures or LEGO pieces.
• Backdrop: A plain white or neutral-colored backdrop works best, eliminating distractions and highlighting your item. Poster board or fabric can work well.

Exact Shots Needed for Toys & Games

Capturing every angle and detail of your toys and games is critical. Here’s a breakdown of the essential shots:

• Photo 1: Front View of Packaging - Show the front of the box at eye level. If sealed, this is where you emphasize box condition.
• Photo 2: Back View of Packaging - Collectors care about box details; the backside often has unique artworks or information.
• Photo 3: Close-Up of Accessories - For loose figures, lay out all accessories. Missing parts can drastically reduce value.
• Photo 4: Detail of Damage - Zoom in on any damage, paint chips, or missing stickers. Transparency builds buyer trust.
• Photo 5: Assembled LEGO Sets - If possible, show the assembled set. For loose sets, spread pieces to demonstrate completeness.

Accurately Photographing Condition

Condition is king in toy reselling. Follow these tips to highlight condition accurately:

• Lighting: Use ample light to reveal wear or damage. Shadows can obscure these details.
• Angles: Take photos from multiple angles to provide a comprehensive view of the item’s condition.
• Macro Mode: Use this feature for close-ups of small details like scratches or paint wear.

Common Photography Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t lose sales due to amateur mistakes. Here’s what to look out for:

• Busy Backgrounds: Distracting backgrounds take focus away from the item. Stick to simple, clean backdrops.
• Underexposed Photos: Dark, shadowy images make items look unappealing. Ensure good lighting to avoid this.
• Blurry Images: Use a tripod or stabilize your phone to keep your shots crisp and clear.

Photo Editing Tips for Toys & Games

Editing can enhance your photos, but over-editing can erase important details:

• Background Removal: Use tools to remove distractions, but ensure it looks natural.
• Brightness/Contrast: Adjust these to make colors pop and details clear, but avoid making it look artificial.
• Keep It Real: Some imperfections should remain visible; they’re part of the item’s history.

How Many Photos to Include Per Listing

The more, the better! eBay allows up to 12 photos, Vinted up to 20, and Etsy up to 10. Use as many as possible to give buyers a full understanding of what they’re purchasing.

Complementing Photos with Descriptions

Great photos need strong descriptions to match. Use tools like ListingGenie to craft descriptions that highlight the visual and physical aspects of your toys and games.

FAQs About Photographing Toys & Games for Resale

• Why is natural light better for toy photography? - Natural light provides the most accurate color representation and doesn’t cast harsh shadows.
• What’s the best phone camera setting for toy photos? - Use the highest resolution setting, and if available, enable HDR for better detail.
• How do I make sure all parts are visible in the photo? - Lay out all pieces neatly, and photograph from above to include everything in one shot.
• Should I edit out all imperfections? - No, leaving minor imperfections visible builds trust with buyers, as they know what to expect.
• How can ListingGenie help with my listings? - It assists in writing detailed, appealing descriptions that effectively accompany your photos.