How to Create Attractive & Engaging Product Shots for Instagram on a Budget

Have a tight budget and still need to create images for your Instagram feed? We get it. Every business needs beautiful visuals to stand out, but this can be tricky with limited resources. Don’t worry – there are inexpensive methods that anyone could use to put together stunning product shots for their Instagram account. 

In this blog post, we’ll offer tips on capturing stunning photos of your products without breaking the bank. So if you’re looking for creative ways to take unique product shots while staying within a budget, read on.

How to Do a Budget Restricted Product Shots for Instagram

For startups and small businesses operating on a tight budget, professional product photography might seem like a luxury they cannot afford.

Fortunately, with a blend of creativity, resourcefulness, and the right strategy, it’s possible to create budget-restricted product shots that sparkle with professional sheen. 

Let’s explore how you can achieve this and transform your Instagram feed into a visual delight.

Understanding Instagram Aesthetics

Before we get into the details of creating product shots, it’s crucial to understand the aesthetics of Instagram. Instagram is a platform where visual appeal is everything. Your images must show your product and fit seamlessly into the Instagram style.

• Embrace Vibrant Colors

Instagram thrives on eye-catching, vibrant colors. Don’t shy away from using color to make your product pop.

• Prioritize Composition

Composition refers to the arrangement of elements in your shot. Aim for a balanced, pleasant design that guides the viewer’s eye toward your product.

• Tell a Story

A product shot isn’t just about the product; it’s about the story you’re telling. This narrative can revolve around the product’s use, benefits, or connection to a particular lifestyle.

Step 1: Equip Yourself

While professional photography gear is pricey, you don’t need high-end equipment to create excellent product shots.

• Smartphone Camera

Most modern smartphones come equipped with powerful cameras capable of producing high-quality images. Make the most of this handy tool at your disposal.

• Natural Light

Natural light is a fantastic, free resource that can fill your images with a professional look. Plan your shots for the daytime when you have ample sunlight.

• DIY Lightbox

If natural light isn’t an option, consider creating a DIY lightbox. This tool can provide you with a well-lit, neutral background for your product shots. You can make a lightbox using a cardboard box, white paper, and LED lights.

Step 2: Perfect Your Setup

You can create a setup conducive to fantastic product photography even with limited resources.

• Clean Background

A clean, uncluttered background ensures your product remains the star of the shot. A white or neutral-colored wall, a large piece of cardboard, or a clean bedsheet can serve as excellent backgrounds.

• Props

Props can add context and visual interest to your product shots. Look around your home for items that complement your product and fit your brand aesthetic. Remember, less is more when it comes to props.

• Tripod

A tripod can help you achieve sharp, stable shots. If you don’t have one, stack books or use a sturdy piece of furniture to support your phone.

Step 3: Experiment with Composition

Experimentation is the key to finding what works best for your product and brand.

• Rule of Thirds

The rule of thirds is an essential photography principle that can help guide your composition. Envision your frame divided into nine equal parts by two horizontal and two vertical lines. 

Position your product at the intersections of these lines for a pleasing composition.

• Different Angles

Try shooting your product from various angles. Each perspective can highlight different aspects of your product.

• Play with Spacing

Experiment with spacing. Negative space around your product can be just as important as the product itself in creating a compelling image.

Step 4: Master the Art of Editing

Even the most beautiful raw photos can benefit from a touch of editing. And thanks to a plethora of editing apps available, you can enhance your images without any professional software.

• Use Editing Apps

Apps like Snapseed, VSCO, and Lightroom Mobile offer robust editing features for free or at a minimal cost. You can adjust aspects like brightness, contrast, saturation, and sharpness to make your images pop.

• Maintain Consistency

Consistency in editing helps build your brand aesthetic. Try to use the same filter and editing settings for all your images. This consistency will make your Instagram feed look cohesive and aesthetically pleasing.

• Don’t Overdo It

While editing can enhance your images, overdoing can make them look artificial. Aim for a natural look that enhances your product’s appeal, not distorts it.

Bonus Tips: Make Your Product Shots Shine

Here are some bonus tips that can take your product shots from good to great:

• Include Lifestyle Shots

Lifestyle shots showcase your product in use or in a setting where it might be used. These shots can help your audience envision themselves using your product, thus fostering a personal connection.

• Highlight Unique Features

Does your product have any unique features or details? Make sure to highlight them in your shots. This could be a unique design element, an interesting texture, or a unique function.

• Show Variety

If your product comes in different colors, styles, or sizes, capture this variety in your shots. Showing variety can appeal to a broader audience and showcase the full range of your product line.

• Experiment with Videos

Videos can be a great way to showcase your product from multiple angles or in action. Instagram is increasingly favoring video content, so it’s a good idea to incorporate it into your content strategy.

• Engage with Your Audience

Finally, remember that Instagram is not just a platform for sharing images but also for building relationships. Engage with your audience by responding to comments, asking for feedback, and encouraging user-generated content.

Conclusion

A tight budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the quality of your product shots for Instagram. With resourcefulness, creativity, and a clear understanding of what appeals to your target audience, you can create stunning product photography that shows your brand in its best light. 

While it may require more effort, the engagement and connection with your audience you’ll develop are well worth it. 

Remember, the key to great photography isn’t the price tag on your equipment; it’s your ability to tell your product’s story compellingly.