Whether you’re launching a brand-new business or giving your product line a fresh new look, there’s no denying it—your product photos matter. A lot.

We live in a highly visual world where potential customers are making snap decisions based on what they see first. And often, that’s a photo. Not a caption, not a price tag. A photo.

So when your product photography isn’t working as hard as your product does? You’re likely missing out on clicks, conversions, and credibility.

After working with dozens of brands—big and small—I’ve noticed a few patterns when it comes to what holds product photography back. And the good news? These common mistakes are totally fixable.

Let’s dive into the top three I see most often and how to avoid them:

1. Bad Lighting (Natural Isn’t Always Better)

We’ve all heard the advice: “Just use natural light!” And while yes, natural light can be beautiful, it’s not always reliable—or flattering. Harsh midday sun, dark shadows, or dull overcast light can make even the most stunning product look unappealing or amateur.

Why it matters:
Lighting sets the mood, draws attention to the right details, and makes your product look polished and professional.

What to do instead:

• If you’re DIY-ing it, shoot near a large window with soft, indirect light. Use a white reflector or foam board to bounce light and eliminate shadows.

• Even better? Hire a professional (like me!) who understands how to shape light to make your product shine—literally and figuratively.

2. Cluttered or Distracting Backgrounds

A common mistake new brands make is adding too much into the scene. Props are fun (and can tell a story), but if the background steals attention from the product, the image stops working.

Why it matters:
If your audience has to look for the product in your photo, they’ve already lost interest. The product should be the star—not the marble counter, the coffee cup, or your favorite fern in the background.

What to do instead:

• Keep it clean and purposeful. Use props that complement, not compete.

• Choose backgrounds that highlight your brand vibe but don’t overwhelm the shot.

• Stick to a cohesive color palette so the product stands out naturally.

3. Inconsistent Editing

Inconsistent tones, lighting, or cropping across your product images can confuse your audience and dilute your brand identity. One image is cool and moody, another is bright and warm—so which one reflects your actual brand?

Why it matters:
People remember consistency. Clean, cohesive visuals help your brand look trustworthy, polished, and instantly recognizable.

What to do instead:

• Choose one editing style (warm & cozy, bright & airy, clean & minimal—whatever fits your brand) and stick to it across all platforms.

• When in doubt, hire a photographer who can create a custom editing style tailored to your brand—and keep it consistent across every gallery.

Here’s the Bottom Line:

Your product photography isn’t just about pretty pictures—it’s about creating connection, building trust, and giving people a reason to click “add to cart.” Avoiding these common mistakes can make a big difference in how your brand is perceived and how your products perform.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or ready to take the next step with professional, strategic, scroll-stopping product photos, I’d love to chat. My process is simple, collaborative, and designed to help your products look their absolute best—so you can focus on growing your business. Head to my Contact Page to inquire about your custom brand session or view my favorite recent brand sessions Here.