General Tips for All Asset Classes: Quality Photos

Quality pictures are imperative to online auction success!

Objective:
Provide clear, honest, and high-quality photos that accurately represent the asset, its condition, and its surroundings to help buyers make informed decisions.

Be Thorough and Transparent:
Buyers appreciate honesty, which builds trust and reduces post-sale issues. Always disclose flaws, wear, and the true condition of the asset. If possible, show the asset in its natural environment (e.g., a couch in a living room, a commercial stove in a kitchen). This not only demonstrates how the asset fits within a typical setting, but also gives buyers a sense of scale and context that a standard product shot may not provide.

Use Clear, Concise Language:
Avoid jargon in both descriptions and captions. Ensure the photo details are clear and align with the description, helping the buyer understand the asset’s features and condition easily. Provide context where needed (e.g., showing a piece of furniture in a well-lit living room can communicate its appeal more effectively than just a plain background).

Anticipate Common Questions:
Think about what a buyer might want to know and ensure your photos answer these questions. This could include functionality, wear, and included accessories. For example, photos showing the appliance plugged in and working (if relevant) will preemptively address functionality concerns. A clear shot of a couch with visible wear on the upholstery will help the buyer assess the degree of use.

Use Natural Environments:
When possible, photograph the asset in its natural environment. For furniture, this means taking photos of couches, tables, and chairs within the living room or dining room. For equipment, consider showing how it fits into the workspace or kitchen. This approach will provide context and scale, helping buyers imagine the asset in their own space, which leads to more engaged and confident buyers.

Avoid Redundancy:
Don’t overuse adjectives like “amazing” or “perfect.” Let the condition and features of the asset speak for themselves through accurate, clear photos and concise descriptions. For example, instead of saying "perfectly pristine," say "excellent condition with only minor wear on the back cushion."

Spell Out Abbreviations:
Avoid assuming buyers will understand industry-specific abbreviations or terms. Spell them out when necessary for clarity. For example, if the asset has a certain power rating or feature, make sure it's clearly labeled and explained in both the description and the photo captions.

Photo Composition Tips:

• Lighting: Use natural, diffused light when possible. Avoid harsh lighting or shadows that obscure details. Overcast days are ideal for even lighting, but make sure the entire asset is illuminated.
• Angles: Capture multiple angles to provide a well-rounded view. For furniture, shoot from the front, back, and sides. For equipment, photograph key components like control panels, features, and moving parts.
• Close-ups: Include close-up shots of any imperfections, wear, or unique features. Don’t shy away from showing the condition honestly.
• Context: Show the asset in use or set up in its natural environment whenever possible. This can increase buyer confidence as they can see how the asset fits into a realistic setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Inconsistent Lighting: Ensure all photos are well-lit and clear. Avoid dark, blurry, or shadowed shots that may mislead or confuse the buyer.
• Lack of Context: When possible, include an object for scale (e.g., a person sitting on a couch or a kitchen appliance in use) to help buyers visualize the asset in real life.
• Ignoring Details: Provide close-up photos that show important aspects such as serial numbers, brand labels, and the condition of specific areas that may experience wear.