How to Photograph Candles for Etsy

Lit vs unlit shots

You need both types for a complete Etsy listing:

Unlit shots (for your main image): - Shows label design, wax colour, and vessel clearly - Bright, clean lighting; white or neutral background - Easy to standardize across your range

Lit shots (for secondary images): - Creates emotional warmth and ambiance - Shows how the candle actually looks in use - Dark or moody backgrounds work best - Higher engagement on social media

Etsy recommends using your clearest, most informative shot as the main image. For most candle sellers, that's an unlit shot on a clean background.

Lighting setup for candles

Backgrounds and props for candles

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Popular props: dried flowers, eucalyptus sprigs, crystals, stacked books, matches in a jar.

Camera settings for flame

Shoot 10–15 flame shots in burst mode — flames flicker and you want to select the most visually interesting shape.

Etsy main image tips

• Use a 2000 × 2000px square image
• Keep the candle as the main subject, occupying at least 85% of the frame
• Avoid adding text overlays to main images — Etsy discourages it
• Test your thumbnail at small sizes — if the label is illegible, simplify the composition

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