Around 70% to 75% of consumers make purchase decisions after viewing an image or video of the product. Professional images don’t just help you sell products but also help you establish a strong brand presence in competitive markets. While modern phone cameras are great for everyday use and produce stunning images, they aren’t suitable for product photography. Businesses can benefit from professional product photography services, especially if they want to publish their product images on platforms like Amazon, eBay, or Etsy.
1. Expert in Product Photography
Look for a professional that offers expert product photography services because they will know how to produce an impactful image that meets your marketing goals. An expert will know how to create a meaningful composition that showcases the product’s purpose, use, and branding. They will also know how to highlight the product and make it the hero of your images.
Experienced product photographers are familiar with the rules of different platforms like Amazon or popular local e-commerce platforms. They will optimize images for WordPress, Shopify, and other such CMSs as well. These professionals are aware of industry standards and know how to research into different niches to come up with the best composition. Look for companies that specialize in product photography services to get the best results.
2. Agency Reputation
It is easier to find an agency’s reputation online with a simple search. Google reviews and ratings show up at the top of the search engine results page, which makes it easier to create a shortlist of options based on this information.
You can also look for information in local directories, social media, and check the local Better Business Bureau. The BBB will have a record of any official complaints against the agency. It will also offers accreditations or certifications to different businesses so you know they are trustworthy.
Many agencies also provide references so you can contact past clients to get a more detailed and unbiased report on the quality of product photography services. Comprehensive research into a company’s reputation ensures you find the right fit.
3. Experience in Your Niche
Customer behavior and preferences can vary from one industry to the next. A professional photographer with experience in your niche will know what kind of images and approaches work in that particular industry.
These professionals will conduct in-depth research into your niche, collecting big and small data on your customers before coming up with a plan of approach.
A tailored plan has a higher chance of success and will draw more attention in competitive platforms like e-commerce websites.
An experienced professional will also be able to offer advice on how to use the images on different social media networks or as a part of your website.
4. Professional Portfolio
Every photographer has a professional portfolio that showcases all of their work. You can browse through these images to get an idea about their style, vision, composition skills, photography skills, and editing skills.
Do the portfolio images appeal to you? Do you think they will appeal to your target audience? The portfolio also gives a look at how the photographer adapts to different brands, products, and target markets.
Study these images carefully to determine whether they highlight the product carefully and are readable. If you can’t understand what the photograph is trying to say or if the message isn’t clear, look at other production photography services.
5. Case Studies
A portfolio showcases the final result of a well-planned approach. It doesn’t tell you anything about the process behind photography. That’s where case studies come in.
Some product photography services provide detailed case studies. They will explain how they came up with the concept, what kind of research was involved, and how they were able to create images that impressed their target audience.
6. Agency Process
If the company doesn’t provide any case studies, take time to understand their planning process. Don’t choose agencies that just take good pictures. You need someone with marketing insight, creativity, and good research skills.
An experienced photographer will take the time to understand your requirements and then come up with a strategy based on research. They will plan the message and compose the image carefully to have the biggest impact on prospective customers.
In most cases, agencies will first consult with clients, carry out research, send a proposal to the clients, provide a straightforward quote, and then stage the photograph.
7. Post Production
Taking a picture is just one part of the process. While a good camera will take great images but you will still need significant editing to get professional-quality pictures.
The post-production process involves color correction, white balance correction, refining, and sharpening the image. An expert editor will make sure the image is just perfect before sending it to the client.
This process requires a lot of skill and insight. A good editor can turn even the blandest picture into something eye-catching.
8. Quotes and Pricing
Professionals use a lot of sophisticated cameras, lenses, macro lenses, and software to create stunning images. That’s why product photography services can be a bit expensive.
However, it is important to ensure you don’t pay more than you need to for the service. Look for agencies that provide straightforward quotes with no hidden costs or unreasonable exemptions.
8. Consultation
Book a consultation with a reliable agency that provides expert product photography services. Speak with them about your product, brand, and target audience. The experts will offer some recommendations and ideas about the images.
The first consultation can help you establish a rapport and determine whether the agency can communicate properly. If you don’t click with the studio, look for other options. That’s especially crucial if you want to establish a long term relationship.
Product photography services by experts offer good ROI and conversion rates. It also helps your brand image because sharp, clear, and professional pictures earn people’s trust. The steps mentioned above will help you find a trustworthy, experienced, and knowledgeable photographer for the job.
