top of page
Writer's pictureStuart Price

The Ultimate Guide to Product Photography for Amazon: From Cut-Outs to Creative Shots

When it comes to selling on Amazon, your product images are your first—and often only—chance to make a strong impression. In the competitive world of e-commerce, high-quality product photography is no longer a "nice-to-have"; it's a necessity. Whether you're a seasoned seller or just starting out, understanding the types of images you need can significantly impact your sales.


In this guide, we’ll break down the essential shots your Amazon product listing requires, from the standard white-background cut-out to the more creative lifestyle shots that can elevate your brand. Why trust me? I am Brighton product photographer, Stuart Price, who has been helping businesses with e-commerce product photography in Sussex for years working alongside start-ups and established businesses creating images for amazon, ebay, websites and social media.


Let’s dive in!


The Classic White Background Shot (Main Image)


When selling on Amazon, the most important photo is the main image. This is the one that will appear first when customers browse through your listings. Amazon has strict guidelines for this shot—it must feature the product on a pure white background, with no additional text, logos, or borders. The product should take up at least 85% of the image area, and it should be clear, well-lit, and professionally taken.



Amazon Product Photography


The purpose of this shot is simple: give customers a clear, straightforward view of what they’re buying. A straight cut-out on white background is the gold standard here, and it ensures that your product is displayed in the cleanest, most professional way possible.


Additional Product Shots (Details and Variants)


Once you’ve nailed the main image, it’s time to give your customers more details. Additional photos are your opportunity to show off your product from various angles—whether it’s the front, side, or back, or close-up shots highlighting its features or texture.


- Product Details: If you’re selling something with intricate design or multiple components (think gadgets, jewellry, or clothing), you’ll want high-quality close-ups to showcase these features.


- Variants: If your product comes in multiple colours, sizes, or styles, ensure you have separate shots for each variant.





This step helps customers understand exactly what they’re buying and ensures that your product meets their expectations.


Lifestyle Shots (Contextual Use)


Now that you’ve shown the product itself, it’s time to tell a story. Lifestyle shots are photos of your product being used in a real-world setting, whether that’s a kitchen appliance in a modern kitchen or clothing worn by a model. These images help customers envision how the product will fit into their daily lives and give your listing a human touch.




Lifestyle Photography


For example, if you’re selling a set of candles, a lifestyle shot might show the candles lit on a dining table, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. For tech products, showing someone using your gadget in an office or home environment can help bring your product to life. These types of images build trust by helping buyers see that the product is functional, stylish, and practical.


Creative Shots (Lifestyle + Emotion)


Creative shots take things a step further by combining lifestyle elements with emotional appeal. These are more artistic images designed to spark an emotional response. The goal here is to show how your product can fit into a lifestyle or create a feeling.


For example, if you're selling a high-end backpack, a creative shot might feature someone hiking through a beautiful landscape, demonstrating both the functionality of the bag and the adventure it promises. Or, if you’re selling wellness products, a creative image could show your product in a serene, calming setting.



Creative product photography


These images help differentiate your brand and make your product stand out from the crowd. Creative shots are about storytelling and engagement, making customers not only want to buy but also feel connected to your brand.


Infographics and Lifestyle Collages


Infographics are a great way to combine product images with key selling points. They’re helpful for highlighting product features, dimensions, and unique selling points in a clean, visually appealing format. These can be particularly useful for complex products that benefit from a breakdown of their features or usage instructions.


For example, if you’re selling a high-tech gadget with several features, you might include an image showing the product with text overlaying it, explaining each feature. Just remember, Amazon has guidelines that prohibit excessive text on images, so keep it minimal and to the point.


Lifestyle Collages are similar but combine multiple lifestyle shots into one image, showing various uses or angles of the product all at once. This helps potential buyers see the broader value of your product.





The Power of Professional Photography


While DIY photography might be tempting, investing in a professional Amazon product photographer can take your images to the next level. A professional will ensure that your photos meet Amazon’s strict requirements while also helping you create stunning visuals that highlight your product’s best features.


If you’re in the Sussex area, consider working with me, a Brighton-based e-commerce product photographer who specialises in Amazon listings. With years of experience, I know exactly how to make your products stand out in a crowded marketplace. Whether you need simple product shots or a full-blown lifestyle photo shoot, hiring an expert can save you time and boost your sales.


Conclusion


High-quality product photography is one of the most effective ways to boost your sales on Amazon. From the standard white-background shots to lifestyle and creative images, each type of photo serves a unique purpose in showing your product at its best. By investing in professional photography, whether it’s for detailed shots or eye-catching lifestyle images, you’re investing in your brand’s future success.


If you're ready to take your Amazon listings to the next level, consider reaching out to me. With the right visuals, your product will not only meet Amazon’s standards—it will shine.




Comentários


bottom of page