Want your listings to stand out in the Alley? Great photos don’t just show a figure — they tell collectors, “This one belongs on your shelf.” Whether you’re shooting with a smartphone or a fancy camera, here are some tips to help your figures strike the perfect pose.
1. Light It Up Like a Spotlight
Think of your figure as the star of the show. No one wants their hero (or villain) lost in the shadows.
- Main Light (Key): Place it slightly in front of the figure, angled down like a stage spotlight.
- Fill Light: Add a softer light on the other side to chase away harsh shadows.
Bonus points if you’ve got a small LED or RGB light — a little glow from behind can give your figure that cinematic, “ready-for-battle” edge.
2. Backgrounds: Keep It Clean (or Scene-Stealing)
Buyers want to focus on the figure, not your coffee table.
- Plain white or black poster board works like a charm.
- Dioramas or themed backdrops are totally fair game — just make sure the figure stays the star. (Your clone troopers will thank you for not drowning them in kitchen clutter.)
3. Show Off Every Angle
Collectors are detail hunters. Make sure you capture:
- Front, back, and both sides.
- A close-up of the face/head sculpt.
- Accessories, weapons, or packaging (if included).
Think of it like a turntable spin — let buyers see everything before they add it to their collection.
4. Steady Hands, Steady Shots
Blurry photos can make even the rarest bounty look like a knockoff. Use a tripod, both hands, or even a stack of books to keep things steady. A phone timer works wonders too.
5. Keep It Honest
Skip the heavy filters and flashy edits — let the figure shine in its true form. Adjust brightness if needed, but don’t color-shift or hide scuffs. Honest photos = happy buyers.
6. Resolution Rules
Upload the clearest, highest-resolution photos you can. Collectors love to zoom in and admire every detail, from paint apps to cape stitching.
Final Tip: Photograph Like a Collector
Ask yourself: If I were hunting this figure, what would I want to see? Treat every listing like it’s going into your own “grail” folder, and your photos will help your figures find a new shelf in no time.