The problem with auction sites is that you can't handle the goods first so a photo and a description are all you've got to go on. That makes taking the right photo of vital important.
Ways of getting the picture
The first thing to realise is that you don't need an expensive camera - a digital 'point and shoot' camera or a good camera in a 'camera phone' is quite OK.
As an alternative you can use a film camera, have the film developed and then printed and finally scan in the print. However, this is not such a good idea as the picture deteriorates as it passes through the various stages and you have to wait until the film is processed.
Another way, if the object is small, is to place it on a photocopier tray and photocopy it as it is. This can work for some items but the result is often not that good.
A digital camera, even an inexpensive one, can handle most of these pictures and, of course, the image is digitised from the outset and taken straight from the camera to the computer where it can be correctly sized and uploaded.
Taking the shot
Choose a plain background that shows the article well, often this will be white. This may mean using a sheet of white paper or white faced board but be aware that this can give a very harsh result. An alternative is a white cloth that is completely flat and which will give a less reflective, 'richer' look.
You can also use a plain wall or any other large expanse of a plain, contrasting colour depending on the size of the article.
If it is very large, like a car or boat, then taking it in it's native surroundings may be the best answer. If so, try to take it from an angle that shows it at its best with the least number of other distractions.
If you are photographing indoors, make sure that you light the article well and, if possible, try not to use flash as this can give a harsh light. Flash will also reflect back at the camera if the surface is polished or made from metal.
Digital photos are cheap so never take just one, take a selection using different backgrounds, alternative lighting and object positions so that you can choose the one that looks best.
Remember that any damage or imperfections or features of the article might need a separate photo and, if necessary, learn how to use the 'macro' feature to take a close up. On most cameras this is easy and can give a satisfying result but try to take a selection to allow you to choose the best.
To improve your chances of taking the best picture, spend a little time looking at the photographs other people have taken and try to find one that you think is good and then emulate it.
Once you have the picture
A lot can be done by using photo manipulation software to show off items to their best so it is worth learning how to do this. Your camera may well come with some basic photo editing software that will help you. It is a complex subject so be sure to read the help file.
You then need to crop or resize the photo, save it as a JPEG and it is ready to be uploaded. All auction sites have a section where they give you information on the recommenced size and type of picture to use and instructions on how to upload.
Finally, if you photographed a small object and enjoyed doing it, be aware that there is a branch of photography that specialises in taking photos of small objects at close range which is both challenging and fun to do.
