Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Which is Better for Sales, Full or Partial Photos?


http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-elsa-hardt-shawl

I get pretty consistent advice from everyone that patterns must include clear photos which show the whole garment. I also often include stitch detail shots for added clarity. I've recently started testing out my first Ravelry ads using those clear photos. So imagine my surprise when another designer recently told me she has been experimenting with purposely unclear photos that are artsy instead.  She says she is getting the strongest click through on partial photos in her Ravelry ads. Does this mean I need a different photo for the ad?

http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-elsa-hardt-shawl


4 comments:

  1. I've been playing with Ads as well. I can't figure it out, the ad I like the least has gotten the most clicks..I think there has to be something eye catching that makes the person want to see more,

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    1. It is interesting how others choose based on the photos. I think because we have already seen the items in a three dimensional way our brains make leaps which a viewer of the photo only does not. I've also noticed some of my patterns sell well from photos and different ones sell when knitters have the opportunity to see the real garments.

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  2. Robin - I prefer clear. But also for me, the garment has to be on a live person, Perhaps not so oimportant for the shawl you show in this post, but for a fitted piece I look for ads that show the garment on a live person.

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    1. I'm always cautious making assumptions about photos of garments on live models. Often they are pinned into shape at the back. I've also seen great patterns look unappealing because they just didn't fit the model they were shown on. I recently had someone show me a pattern because they were concerned about the depth of the armhole due to the way it looked in the photo. The truth is, the only way you can be sure it will fit you is to compare pattern dimensions to your own and modify as necessary. One of my friends uses her very attractive, very petite daughter as her model. With no scale indicators in the photos potential buyers can judge her proportions but not her height. I'm sure most viewers look at the shots and assume they are seeing a slender tall women.

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