Great visuals sell your craftsmanship before you say a word, build trust, showcase your work, and bring in more clients.

1. Framing & Composition

• Rule of Thirds
  • Enable grid lines in your camera app.
  • Position the car’s main silhouette or detail along one of the grid’s thirds.
• Consistent Angles
  • Hero Shot (3 quarter front): shows overall shape.
  • Detail Close-Up (wheel, badge, bead test): highlights craftsmanship.
  • Wide Context (side profile, environment): sets the scene.
• Background
  • Choose a clean, uncluttered backdrop (plain wall, driveway).
  • Avoid busy streets or distracting objects in frame.

2. Lighting Best Practices

• Golden Hour Magic
  • Shoot within 1 hour after sunrise or before sunset.
  • Soft, warm light minimizes harsh shadows.
• Overcast Days
  • Clouds act as a natural diffuser for even illumination.
• Fill Light Tricks
  • Use a white reflector or car’s paint as a bounce to fill dark areas.
  • For Stories, try your phone’s flashlight on low to add edge-glow.
• Avoid Direct Midday Sun
  • Creates blown-out highlights and deep shadows—use shade instead.

3. Camera Settings for Maximum Detail

• Resolution & Mode
  • Set to highest resolution (Pro/RAW if available).
  • Use portrait mode for shallow depth (detail shots).
• Grid & Level
  • Turn on grid lines & horizon level to keep shots straight.
• Focus & Exposure Lock
  • Tap to focus on the car’s surface; slide up/down to lock exposure.
• Disable Flash
  • Flash flattens metallic finishes—rely on natural light or reflectors.