A lot of solopreneurs get stuck before they even start shooting their products. The usual thought is, “I need a DSLR, softboxes, multiple backdrops, a proper studio… then I’ll begin.” This confusion becomes the biggest barrier.
The truth is — you don’t need a perfect studio to start. You can create good photos and videos with a very basic setup at home. All you need is clarity on the essentials, and the confidence to just start.
Clearing the Confusion
When you start searching for “how to shoot products,” you’ll find hundreds of options: DSLR or mirrorless? Two lights or three? White backdrop or lifestyle setup? Tripod or handheld? The information overload is enough to paralyze anyone.
Here are the most common doubts I see:
- “Do I need a DSLR?”
No. Your phone is more than capable of shooting sharp, high-resolution content for Instagram and reels. A DSLR becomes important later for commercial work where clients expect specific file formats and lens control. - “How many lights do I need?”
For most beginners, one good light source is enough. Natural window light can do wonders, and if you shoot at night, a single ring light or LED panel is fine. - “What background should I use?”
Keep it simple. A plain wall, chart paper, or even a clean cloth is enough to start. Don’t overthink props and textures at the beginning.
And if you’re still confused? Don’t worry. Pinterest, YouTube, and Instagram are full of creators who share product photography hacks using nothing but a phone. From DIY light diffusers made of butter paper to flatlay tutorials, you can find step-by-step examples you can copy without spending anything.
The Basic DIY Setup for Products
Here’s a simple setup you can create today:
- Background: place your product against a plain wall, on white chart paper, or on a cloth. Chart paper works especially well because it bends into a seamless curve.
- Light: set up near a window during the day — morning or evening gives softer light. If shadows look harsh, use a foam board or even a white notebook cover to bounce light back. At night, a single ring light or LED placed at an angle can replace window light.
- Camera: your phone is enough. Use a tripod (even a budget one) to keep it steady. If you don’t have one, balance your phone on a stack of books.
- Extras:
- A chair or tape to hold your phone for overhead shots.
- Reflective card or foil for creative highlights.
- Everyday props like plants, books, or cups for lifestyle flatlays.
One quick recipe: place your product on white chart paper near a window, angle your phone from the front-top at 45°, and use a foam board opposite the window to bounce light. You’ll be surprised at how professional it looks.
What You Can Shoot Yourself
With this setup, you can create plenty of content:
- Instagram Reels and Stories
Show your product in use, do unboxing clips, or share a quick “pack an order with me” video. These don’t need cinematic quality — they need authenticity. - Flatlays
Arrange your product neatly on chart paper, add a small prop (like a pen, notebook, or plant), and shoot from above. Perfect for Instagram posts. - Behind-the-Scenes
Time-lapse your packaging, record your messy workspace, or share small details of your process. This builds trust and makes people root for you. - Short Product Demos
A 10–15 second video showing how your product looks or works. Great for reels and TikToks.
The goal here isn’t perfection. It’s about keeping your audience engaged and showing them you’re real.
When to Upgrade (or Outsource)
Of course, there comes a time when the basics won’t be enough. You’ll know it’s time to upgrade or outsource when:
- You need to shoot at night or in controlled conditions.
- Your products are tricky — like reflective bottles, jewelry, or food.
- You need consistent, high-quality images for Amazon, Flipkart, or your website.
- Shooting and editing take too much of your time.
Think about it: even a simple batch of 10–15 product shots can take hours to set up, shoot, edit, and export. As your business grows, that time could be spent on marketing, sales, or developing your next product instead.
I’ve met solopreneurs who spent two full days trying to photograph shiny bottles on their phone. The photos came out dull, sales didn’t move, and the frustration grew. When they finally outsourced, the difference was immediate — the professional photos paid for themselves within weeks.
At that point, upgrading your gear or outsourcing is not a luxury, it’s a smart business decision.
Closing Thought
The idea of a “perfect setup” stops many solopreneurs from even starting. Don’t let confusion hold you back. A plain wall, your phone, and window light are more than enough to begin.
Your skills will grow with practice. Your gear will improve over time. And when your business is ready, you’ll know when it’s time to outsource.
For polished product photography and videos that help your brand shine on Amazon, Flipkart, or your own website, reach out to The Alpha Visuals. We specialize in high-quality product visuals that convert. Explore more at The Alpha Visuals or each out to me personally for consulting via Contact page.