You’ve spent hours, maybe even days, working on your latest sewing project. Naturally, you want to show it off in the best light—literally and figuratively! Great photos don’t just happen; they’re the result of thoughtful planning, attention to detail, and a few tricks. In part one of a three part series let’s dive into some easy-to-apply tips that’ll take your sewing photography to the next level, making your work stand out in every shot.
1. Good Lighting is Everything
Natural light is your best friend! Whether you're showing off a new garment, bag, or home décor item, the quality of your lighting can make or break the photo. For soft, even lighting, shoot near a window or step outside during the day. Avoid using direct overhead lights, as they can create harsh shadows or wash out the vibrant colors of your project. Make sure to keep an eye out for "hot spots" or spots of sunlight that peek through your shade and give your subject a mottled look.
Pro tip: Overcast days can actually be perfect for shooting, as the clouds act like a natural diffuser, providing soft light without any glare.
Why it matters: Natural lighting not only enhances your project but also gives it a true-to-life appearance. Your followers will appreciate seeing the accurate colors and textures, especially if you're showing off intricate details like stitching or fabric prints.
2. Clean and Simple Background
A clutter-free background keeps the focus on your beautiful creation. Whether you're using a simple wall, a wooden table, or a fabric backdrop, a neutral setting ensures that nothing distracts from your sewing project. Declutter the space, and let your work be the star of the show!
Why it matters: A busy or overly colorful background can steal the spotlight from your project. The goal is to make your sewing creation pop, not get lost in the chaos. Simple, neutral backdrops add an elegant touch and help keep the viewer’s eyes where they should be—on your hard work!
3. Highlight the Details
It’s the little things that make your projects unique, so zoom in and show them off! Whether it’s neat topstitching, decorative buttons, or a beautifully finished seam, capturing close-up shots of these special features gives your followers a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship.
Pro tip: When trying to capture all those amazing details make sure your camera is focused on what you are trying to showcase.
Why it matters: Details tell a story. Those close-ups highlight the skill, effort, and love you poured into your sewing project. Plus, it can inspire others by giving them a closer look at techniques they might want to try!
4. Shoot From Different Angles
You’re going to want to stretch before your photoshoot because this is where things get active! I’m constantly moving around—squatting, standing, and sometimes even chasing my subjects (especially if they’re little ones!). Photoshoot days are a full workout! But all that movement is necessary to capture your project from every angle. Even a small adjustment in position can make a huge impact on how the lighting hits your project or how the background frames it.
Why it matters: Moving around your subject helps you find the best lighting and angles to really show off every detail of your project. It ensures your photos are dynamic and well-lit from all sides, which can make a big difference in the final result.
5. Pay Attention to Colors and Textures
When photographing fabric projects, especially clothing and accessories, make sure your photo reflects the true colors and textures. Avoid filters that might alter the fabric's hue or finish. If you're working with shiny, textured, or patterned fabrics, adjust your lighting to avoid glare or distortion.
Pro tip: It helps to have the fabric in front of you when you are going through your pictures so you can see which ones show the true colors the best.
Why it matters: Your followers want to see your project as it is—true to color and texture. Showing the real richness of your fabrics can make your sewing creations more desirable and give a more accurate representation of the final product.
6. Keep the Focus on the Project
Make sure your project is the star of the photo by using your camera or phone’s focus feature. A slightly blurred background, also known as bokeh, can really make your project pop. But be careful! You don’t want the blur to affect the edges of your project. If you’re taking photos of constantly moving subjects (like kids), increase your camera’s shutter speed or turn on “LIVE” mode on your phone to capture them in action.
Why it matters: Sharp focus draws the viewer’s attention exactly where you want it—on your stunning creation. Blurry or out-of-focus shots can make your project look less polished.
7. Take More Photos Than You Think
Here’s a secret: sometimes the best shots are the ones you didn’t plan for! Snap hundreds of photos if you need to—play around with lighting, composition, and angles. By taking more photos, you increase your chances of capturing those magical, perfect moments.
Why it matters: The more you shoot, the more likely you’ll stumble upon that flawless shot that perfectly captures your project’s essence. Editing can fix minor issues, but starting with great shots makes the process much easier.
8. Master Your Camera or Phone Settings
Most smartphones and cameras come packed with features to help you take great photos, but they’re often overlooked. Adjusting your exposure, ISO, and white balance can drastically improve your shots. Lowering your ISO will reduce grain in low-light conditions, while increasing exposure can brighten dark areas of your project.
Pro Tip: Always remember to check your lighting after changing a setting. When you change your shutter speed it affects how much light your camera takes in. A faster shutter speed captures movements while minimizing blur, but takes in less light. While a slower shutter speed takes in more light but doesn't do well with movement.
Why it matters: Understanding your camera settings can take your photography from basic to pro-level. Play around with different settings to see how they impact your photos, and don’t be afraid to experiment!
9. Give Direction to Your Model
If you're photographing a model (even if it's yourself!), don’t be shy about giving direction. Tell them how to stand, pose, or move to highlight the best features of your project. Ask them to show off details like a twirling skirt or an inside pocket.
Why it matters: A well-directed model can make your garment or accessory look its absolute best. You’re not just capturing an object; you’re telling a story about how the piece will fit into someone’s life.
10. Show Movement Without Blurring
Showing movement can bring energy to your photos, whether it's a flowing dress or a bag being swung over the shoulder. But beware of motion blur! To capture motion clearly, increase your shutter speed (on a camera) or use burst mode (on your phone) to snap a series of quick shots.
Why it matters: Capturing movement without blur adds life and dynamism to your photos. It gives the viewer a sense of how the project will perform in real life, and it creates a more engaging and lively image.
Following these tips will ensure your sewing projects look their best, making them truly shine in every shot! Whether you’re showing off your latest make to friends or sharing it on social media, great photography can make all the difference. So get creative, play with angles, and let your sewing projects take center stage in your photos.
Check out our FAVE must-have photography essentials HERE to really help elevate your pictures even more!
If you are looking for more photography tips don't forget to check out these blogs:
✨ Happy sewing and snapping friends! 📸
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