Product photos: how to brief and approve
Commission photos against an approved physical sample and a written shot list. Check colour, dimensions, included accessories and demonstrated use before approving named files, and agree usage rights before publication. Cambridge China Bridge has its own staff in China to support checks against the goods.
Write a brief tied to the goods
Identify the product code, variant, sample revision and packaging to photograph. Use the approved sample and product specification as the reference. Ask the factory to flag any difference between the photography sample and planned production before the shoot.
Send a shot list covering the main view, rear, details, scale, unpacked contents and intended use. For each shot, state its purpose, background, crop, orientation and destination. Agree file format, pixel dimensions, naming, editable files, correction rounds and who signs off. The ecommerce sourcing guide covers the wider packaging and returns decisions.
Check colour, scale and contents
Ask for a colour reference target in a test frame, consistent lighting and an agreed colour profile. Compare the delivered image with the retained physical sample under suitable lighting on a calibrated display. Screens still vary, so avoid promising an exact screen match. Reject edits that change the apparent shade, texture or finish.
Check dimension annotations against actual measurements. Use a familiar reference object only if its size is clear and perspective does not distort the comparison. Photograph the supplied contents together; distinguish styling props and optional accessories visibly. Check that the usage scene follows the product instructions and does not suggest unsupported performance.
Agree image acceptance before the shoot
Put acceptance criteria in the brief: correct variant, faithful appearance, sharp details, readable labels, accurate contents and usable crops. Allow background cleaning and dust removal, but require approval for changes to the product itself. Do not let retouching hide seams, ports, defects or supplied markings.
Review proofs before final exports. Return comments against filenames, saying what fails and what correction is needed. Record accepted files, revision, approver and outstanding reshoots. Keep product acceptance separate from image acceptance; use quality inspection for checking the actual batch.
Test the full rotation on your website
Agree whether you need a draggable image sequence or a rotation video. Ask for a test capture before the full shoot. Keep the product centred, camera fixed and lighting consistent throughout a complete turn. Check reflective surfaces, handles and loose parts for flicker or movement, and inspect the join where the sequence loops.
Agree delivery of the source frames as well as the finished viewer or video. Test the files in your actual website on mobile and desktop: dragging, loading, zoom and a static fallback image. A horizontal rotation does not show the underside or interior, so request separate views where those details matter.
Confirm rights and release the approved files
Under UK copyright guidance, a licence sets out what the user can do with a work. Ask who owns the images and obtain a written agreement covering your website, marketplaces, advertising, packaging and retailer use. Specify territories, duration, cropping, retouching, attribution and whether the factory or photographer may reuse the images. Treat payment and file delivery as separate from rights clearance.
If you want copyright ownership transferred, UK guidance requires a written agreement signed by the copyright owner stating the transfer. For shots with models, locations or third-party artwork, request relevant permissions for your planned use. Archive the rights agreement with the approved files and sample reference. Recheck images when production, accessories or packaging change.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the factory's product photos?
Ask who owns them and request written permission covering your intended channels and edits. Check that the photos show your exact variant and supplied contents before publishing.
How do I check product photo colour?
Request a reference target in a test frame and consistent lighting. Compare final files with the approved physical sample on a calibrated display. Reject edits that alter shade, texture or finish.
What should a product photography brief include?
Include the sample reference, variant, shot list, contents, usage scenes, output specifications, permitted edits, acceptance criteria, rights agreement and named approver.
How do I approve rotating product images?
Check the complete turn for missing views, flicker, wobble and a visible loop join. Test the sequence on your website using mobile and desktop, and retain the source frames.