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Design and Photos

Light Boxes and Lighting for Product Photos

How to choose a light box or small lighting kit for clean product photos of mugs, shirts and samples.

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How to choose a light box or small lighting kit for clean product photos of mugs, shirts and samples. This guide covers what to compare so you can check current options and reviews yourself.

Light boxes

A folding light box with built in LED strips gives small items like mugs, stickers and jewelry an even, bright background. Pick a size a little larger than your biggest item.

Illustration for Light Boxes and Lighting for Product Photos

Lighting kits

Shirts, totes and flat lays usually need more room than a light box. Two soft lights placed at angles can give even light with fewer harsh shadows.

Keep it steady

A phone tripod helps you take matching photos across a whole listing set, which makes a shop look consistent.

Tips

  • Use the same background and angle across listings.
  • Mix your own photos with mockups so buyers see the real product.
  • Follow Etsy’s current photo size guidance.

Products and services in this guide

Amazon

Photo light boxes

Folding boxes with built in lights for small items.

Check price on Amazon →
Amazon

Lighting kits

Soft lights for larger items and flat lays.

Check price on Amazon →
Amazon

Phone tripods

Keeps shots steady and consistent.

Check price on Amazon →
MP

Maple POD Guide Editors

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