When putting your car up for sale online, the way you present it can make all the difference. High-quality photos are essential for attracting potential buyers. To assist you in this endeavor, we've compiled a comprehensive guide to help you showcase your vehicle effectively and take remarkable photos on your own. Whether you're using a professional camera or a smartphone, following these tips will ensure you achieve outstanding results.
Begin with a spotless car. Before snapping any pictures, give your car a thorough cleaning. Wash and dry the exterior, and vacuum and clean the interior. Remove any personal items from inside the car. While it does not need to be professionally detailed, it should be as tidy as possible.
Opt for an outdoor location for your photoshoot. Avoid taking pictures in your driveway or in front of your house. Instead, find an open or picturesque spot free of other cars, people, or distracting elements.
Prepare your device. Ensure your smartphone or camera is set horizontally (landscape) for all shots. This orientation allows for a better view of the car and facilitates image cropping and arrangement. Stick to the standard mode for most shots, and reserve wide-angle for tight interior spaces.
Take advantage of open shade, overcast skies, or late afternoon sunlight for the best lighting conditions. If shooting in bright sunlight, position the car in solid shade rather than dappled light. Adjust the car position if necessary to avoid harsh shadows or glare.
Start with exterior shots. Begin with 12-15 overview photos of the exterior, capturing each side, front, rear, and angled shots of all four corners. Ensure all doors, hood, and trunk are closed. For convertibles, take shots with the top raised and lowered. Adjust the car's position if necessary to avoid harsh shadows or glare.
After the overview shots, capture close-up images of any blemishes, dents, or damage on the exterior. Transparency is key, so include flaws to provide potential buyers with a comprehensive view of the car's condition.
Surprisingly, standing outside the vehicle provides the best perspective for interior overview shots. Capture both seats and the dashboard from this angle.
Photograph the interior components, including the odometer, gauge cluster, stereo, climate control, and other details.
Capture shots of the engine bay from various angles, focusing on components such as carburetors, ignition systems, and belts. Highlight small details that potential buyers may find interesting.
If possible, take photos of the underside of the car. If a lift is unavailable, use ramps or stands to get a clear view. Document any rust, damage, or leaks.
Take clear photos of the VIN, data plates, and any stickers or labels. Ensure all characters are legible. Also, photograph relevant documentation such as service records and receipts.
Ensure your photos are current and under 10MB each. Resize images if necessary using bulkresizephotos.com.
Print this checklist and tick off each shot as you take them. While not all shots may apply to your car, strive to capture as many as possible for a comprehensive listing.
