How to Use Natural Light for Product Photography (Even If You’re Not a Pro)

DIY-friendly photo tips to help handmade sellers shoot with confidence.
Natural light is one of the most underrated tools in your product photography toolkit. It’s free, flattering, and beginner-friendly. Whether you're using a smartphone or a fancy camera, learning how to use natural light can instantly improve your product photos.

5 Ways to Work With Natural Light

Shoot during specific hours of the day
Early morning or late afternoon light is softer and more flattering than harsh midday sun.

Find a north-facing window
This gives you even, indirect light that won’t shift too dramatically throughout the day.

Diffuse harsh sunlight
A sheer curtain or white sheet taped over the window softens strong beams and reduces shadows.

Use a white reflector
A foam board or white cardboard can bounce light back onto your product and soften shadows.

Turn off all other lights
Mixing natural and artificial light sources creates color balance issues—stick to just one.

Before Product Photos Were My Thing

Before I ever photographed a product, I was drawn to still life—just everyday scenes lit by natural light. I’d set up a folding table near a window, prop up a piece of foam board, and play around with whatever I had nearby. It wasn’t perfect (and honestly, a lot of trial and error was involved), but that’s how I learned the most important lesson: great lighting doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need fancy gear—you just need to pay attention to the light you already have. That’s the real magic, and it’s where beautiful, believable photos begin.

Bonus Tips to Get the Most from Natural Light in Product Photography

You’ve got the basics down—but once you start actually photographing your handmade products, a few extra tricks can make the process smoother and your photos stronger. Whether you're shooting for Etsy, your website, or social media, these DIY-friendly tips will help you make the most of natural light:

• Cloudy days are your friend.
  Overcast skies give you soft, even light—ideal for handmade product photography. No harsh shadows, just clean, flattering light.

• Pay attention to how light moves.
  Natural lighting shifts throughout the day. Move your product around to see how the shadows change. Even a small adjustment can make a big difference.

• Clean your lens before you shoot.
  Especially if you're using your phone. A quick wipe helps your product photos come out clearer and more professional-looking.

• Batch your DIY photo sessions.
  Once you find good light, try to photograph several products at once. It saves time and keeps your visuals looking consistent across your shop or feed.

• Be patient with yourself.
  DIY product photography is a skill. The more you shoot, the more confident you’ll get. Let each photo session teach you something new.

Go Ahead—Try It Out

Pick one product you sell and schedule 15–30 minutes to play with natural light. Set up near a window, turn off other lights, and move your item around to see how the light hits it. Try shooting with and without a white reflector (like a foam board or white poster). Don’t worry about getting it perfect—just observe how the light changes and what looks best. Save your favorite shot—you’re building your visual instincts every time you try.

Need a Hand? I’ve Got You.

If figuring all this out on your own feels like a lot, you don’t have to go it alone. I offer product photography services made just for handmade sellers—including one-time sessions and monthly subscriptions. You send me your products, and I’ll take care of the rest.

📸 Click here to see my packages or reach out with any questions—I'm happy to help you bring your brand to life through beautiful photos.

Thanks for hanging out with me today! I hope this helped you see how natural light can totally transform your product photos—without needing to buy anything new. Keep playing, keep experimenting, and trust your eye. You’ve got this.