With the creation of websites like Ravelry and Etsy, it has become easier for crocheters to market their own designs and finished products. Products can be easily found and sold to customers around the world. But living in the United States and selling a crocheted hat pattern to someone living in Australia has its own complications. The customer can't pick up the sample hat and take a closer look at the stitch pattern or play with the drape.

Primary Hat. Photograph by Toni Rexroat

This is where a good photograph that shows off the texture, stitch definition, and size of the project is important. It is your photograph, almost as much as the design itself, that sells. So what makes a good crochetwear photograph? My best advice would be lots of practice and playing. And to get you started, here are a some valuable tips from Heidi Adnum's book, The Crafter's Guide to Taking Great Photos:

Q. What is the best background for knitting and needlecraft?

The best background is subtle, gentle, and complementary. Avoid very dark backgrounds (e.g., pure black or white), as they're too harsh. You want the focus of the image to be on your beautiful product and not props and elaborate styling.

Q. The light in my house always changes and I can't achieve consistently good photographs. What should I do?

	Briefcase. Photograph by Jenny Nguyen

First of all, you should group your shots into batches, if possible, and shoot quite a few pieces on one day when the light is available. When this isn't possible, go outside. In the depths of winter, go outside in the middle of the day. This is something that we're normally warned against for good photography, as the light is too harsh, but give it a try if you're really struggling. Use a diffuser to soften the shadows if it's still too harsh. Snowy scenes can be light and dreamy. If you need to stay inside, find a time when the light through the biggest window in your home is most abundant and shoot at this time every day. Add in a reflector to maximize the effect.

Q. My products are so soft and floppy that I find them hard to style. What can I do?

It's very frustrating when one of the best features of your product is also the reason why it's difficult to photograph! You can use a soft filler, like wool or cotton, for products with an "inner." Pile up a selection of your products, as this will give them more structure and depth, and it will also help to fill the frame of the photograph. For those that don't suit piling up, hang them together, or use a model or dressmakers' form.

Kids Aviator Hat. Photograph by Olga Courtnage.

Whether you are selling finished projects, crochet patterns, or just showing off your completed crochet projects, a good photograph is priceless. Order The Crafter's Guide to Taking Great Photos: The Best Techniques for Showcasing Your Handmade Creations today and and show off the exquisite details of your work.

Best wishes,