PATTERN PHOTOGRAPHY - NOT JUST A PRETTY PICTURE
photos in your pattern do MUCH more than show the garment!
You may not have considered all the benefits of spending time on your pattern photography. Read on!
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🧦 Yes, it’s true that the main objective of pattern photography is to show the garment. What you see is what you get, right? Not necessarily! Your photos are just a stepping-off point for knitters. Good photos not only convey important information, but help knitters envision and adapt the garment to suit their needs, opening their eyes to endless possibilities.
When and where do I wear it? Photos are meant to inspire. They set a tone for the use and function of the garment. If your garment is a chunky, hard-wearing sweater, photos may picture it being worn in an outdoor setting by a campfire. The knitter quickly gets an idea of not only WHAT the item is, but HOW it fits into their lifestyle.
Will it work in my wardrobe? Most knitters like clothes but are not always sure how to style them. A good pattern photo shows how to style the garment in a way that helps people picture it in their wardrobe. How is the garment intended to be worn? Can it be layered? Transition from season to season? Used as both a headband and a neck-warmer? Showing the garment styled in multiple ways can sell your design by advertising its diversity.
Informational - For those knitters who are more about form than style, a picture shows vital construction information. Many people find comfort in knowing ‘if I follow XX pattern exactly, I will get XX garment as my outcome.’ How wide is the ribbing and where does it start? Is it a raglan or are the sleeves set-in? This important information should be depicted very clearly in the photos.
Yarn selection - Yarn is a huge factor when choosing a pattern. Your photos should show what the item will result in if the listed yarn is used. We all know a ball of yarn looks much different in our hand than it does in garment form. Alternative yarns may be suggested, but your knitters will appreciate a sample photo using the yarn recommended in the pattern.
Inclusivity - The same design can look very different on X, Y and Z body! With pattern photography, you have the ability to show the garment on a range of bodies. If this is not possible with the sample(s) made, it may be helpful to include a suggestion as to where a knitter can view the design in multiple sizes. For example, if the pattern is published on Ravelry, we can click on the Projects section and see finished products in a range of sizes. If using test knitters, they may agree to share modelling photos of the finished garment in their size.
Reduce tech editing time - Having clear, high quality photos to submit to you tech editor makes the process go smoothly. The more the editor can see details of the item, the easier it is to check the pattern for accuracy.
Phone quality photos are fine! - Most newer phones are more than capable of taking photos that will meet your needs. A fancy camera and studio lighting are great if you have access, but indoor or outdoor photos taken in the right conditions will get the job done. If you are outdoors, the best conditions are slightly overcast, near dawn or dusk. Make sure to include multiple angles of the item and close-ups of any special details. Pick a location in line with where you would wear/use the garment and avoid filters that modify the shape or distort important features.
Spending just a small amount of time on your photos can make a big difference in increasing your pattern sales!
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