I will say from the outset - I am in no way an expert on photography! In fact, I really struggle to take good photos and when I first set up Butterfly-Crafts, my photos were shocking! I thought it would be good to photo my cards on a black so that they were the main feature, that was until someone kindly pointed out to me that the black was washing out my cards.

So, after a long hard think I decided to use a silver background, I just bought some wrapping paper, and use two props in all of my photos: purple butterflies and a purple pen, that way my store front has a uniformity to it and I am so pleased!

I have gathered a few tips on photography and would like to share:

• Do not use a flash as this can distort the product colour


• Use indirect light as direct light can create harsh shadows


• Buy daylight, tungsten or halogen lightbulbs as incandescent ones can create a yellow effect


• Use soft, diffuse lighting such as a photographer's umbrella or a light box.


• Use a tripod as your hands will shake no matter how steady you think you are.


• Get to know your camera as some digital cameras have manual settings allowing you to programme the shutter speeds and apertures.


• Think about using the macro setting (I do!) as this will help focus when taking up-close pictures


• Be creative with your backgrounds/settings or just use something plain. Something too busy will distract from the product


• Take multiple shots of the same item (I take about 10) and think how the buyer would want to see the item. I photo my cards from all angles I can think of and then close up on specific parts. Make jewelry? Then make sure you photograph the reverse of the item if appropriate.


• Learn how to use a photo editing software as you will need it!

Some links you may find helpful:

• Understanding your camera settings


• An introduction to the depth of field


• What is aperture and why should you care


• Shutter speed and its effect on photos


• ISO: What is this funny little number?

Coming the next time for Business Tips (Friday) - Having an online presence