Shop Makeover Series: Photogenic Collaborations

As part of our Shop Makeover Series, rubypearl will be hosting a follow up talk in the Virtual Labs at 4pm today, Monday January 19, 2009!

“I can’t sell my dresses online.” This was the answer I would give over and over again when asked if I had a website. My dresses sold like crazy at local boutiques and craft fairs, but when I thought about selling them on the web, my mind drew a blank. How would it work if my customers couldn’t try them on or feel the fabric? No, I thought, I’d love to, but it just won’t work.

Then I found Etsy. Everything changed, but not all at once.

I began by taking dim pictures in my backyard. Now, this may work for you if you are a good photographer. Sadly, I am not. Even our family photos look like my two year old snapped them.

One of Rubypearl’s original attempts, at right, was a bit blurry.

I began to make friends with photographers and stylists who helped me out. As my photographs improved, my store took off like a rocket.

 

Photos below by talented Austin-based photographer Holly Brunkow.

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Here are some things that I’ve learned.

Even very well known photographers need designers who will loan clothes for their clients to model, and they are very often willing to burn a disc of pictures for you for free or trade.

Attend local photography shows at galleries and coffee shops.

Find mid-level singers and songwriters and send them photos of your work. Target musicians who are well known enough to give your clothes some cachet and whose style fits what you’re doing. Clearly, you will probably never get a call back from Beyonce no matter how much free stuff you send her, unless you know her stylist or her best friend. If so, why are you reading this? You should be emailing me; I have some dresses that would look great on her!

Carol Young, in a rubypearl dress, with Rosanne Cash.


Carol Young in rubypearl designs.

Offer musicians clothes for free or at a discount to wear on stage. Ask who their favorite photographers are; musicians often have other clients who could give your work celebrity exposure.

Post flyers at the local colleges. A beginning photographer may have a brilliant eye but also need to build their portfolio.

Connecting with your local community of photographers is great marketing. Portrait photographers make their living by networking with people. They shoot weddings, children, musicians and professional models — all of whom could be your potential customers. By enlisting their help with your Etsy photography you are exposing your work to everyone who walks into their studios.

Start small and attend every event with a positive attitude.patti.bmp You never know who you’ll meet or where little events will lead you. A few months after I started my company I set a booth up at an art fair hosted by a tiny coffee shop. It was raining. No more than ten people passed through that day. One of them was Patty Griffin’s photographer. She loved what I was doings and set up a meeting with me. I ended up designing a dress for her album cover. If I hadn’t been at that coffee shop, I never would have met her.

Musician Patti Griffin, at right, in a rubypearl dress. Photo by Tracy Goudie.

Musicians always need unique clothing to wear on stage, and there is no better advertisement than someone singing in front of hundreds of people in your creation. Make sure you snap some photos of them in your designs before they leave your studio. Give them special treatment and they will keep coming back to you.

 

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When I met Erykah Badu she was sitting Indian style on the floor of my booth, digging through a box of squirrel-themed skirts to find her size. She had just finished her set at the Austin City Limits festival and wandered into my booth to do some shopping. Glowing and five months pregnant, she laughed at me when I suggested that I could find it for her.

“I can do it! I gotta find me a squirrel skirt. I love squirrels! Whenever I sing a song at home and it has the word girl I always substitute squirrel.”

 

She assembled a large heap of my best dresses and paid with cash. I was so dazzled I didn’t get her stylist’s email or any pictures other than one with her standing next to me.

Learn from my mistakes — even if you have to give celebrities samples of your clothing for free — and make sure to snap that picture. Do whatever it takes. Then send it out with your press kit when you alert the local media about your amazing new design business. Celebrities will understand — they had to be marketing geniuses to get where they are now.

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By working with photographers you can expand your client base, entice celebrities to model your creations and present beautiful photos to your Etsy customers. Since your customers are unable to try your clothing on, you must capture their imaginations through photography. If you are camera-challenged like me, find someone brilliant to help you.

Your pictures will tell a story that inspires them to envision wearing your creation. It won’t matter that they can’t feel the fabric: they will feel beautiful imagining themselves in what you’ve made.

 

Join rubpearl for her follow up talk in the Virtual Labs at 4pm today, Monday January 19, 2009!

 

 

Post in the comments below if you’ve had any luck collaborating with photographers or celebrities. Link us to your photos! We want to see! Check out the Etsy Shop Makeover Flickr pool here.

Seller Handbook | Shop Makeover Series

  • TillyBloom

    TillyBloom says:

    Excellent article, Holly Brunkow's photographs are wonderful, subtle and engaging.

    3 years ago

  • retrothreadz

    retrothreadz says:

    Great selection of dresses, very informative article

    3 years ago

  • rozzie

    rozzie says:

    How inspiring... and nice eyecandy in this article to boot! Now to find me some jewelry models and local photographers...

    3 years ago

  • rosetung

    rosetung says:

    hey ruby pearl! lovely work! unique perspective and ideas here. its a strange coincidence- the timing of this post. a musician has just contacted me to wear something of mine on Conan Goddam OBrien!! i'm blown away and stoked. oooh, but its not definite yet... ruby pearl- do you have a mailing list? i would like to attend an event and say hi sometime, since i live in your area.

    3 years ago

  • poppyswickedgarden

    poppyswickedgarden says:

    Thank you for this article It is very helpful!It has become so much more competitive on Etsy than when I first started! I've been planning on working harder on my photos and getting some good models to work with. I'm a huge fan of your clothes too! XoXo Poppy

    3 years ago

  • sumomosuki

    sumomosuki says:

    Awesome advice! This article is great and another way to find great photographers is through ModelMayhem.com.....I've found so many willing photographers and models there who want to collaborate >^___^<

    3 years ago

  • elizandaxel

    elizandaxel says:

    Fabulous article rubypearl! :) So informative and inspirational, thank you!!

    3 years ago

  • LiamDesign

    LiamDesign says:

    the first pic is stunning!!!

    3 years ago

  • shavingkitsuppplies

    shavingkitsuppplies says:

    Another reason to luv you! Thanks.

    3 years ago

  • circlesareforever

    circlesareforever says:

    Oh how i love those dresses.

    3 years ago

  • 4TheSparrowsNest

    4TheSparrowsNest says:

    It's really neat to see how clothing designers market their clothes. I love to see the handcrafted clothing here on Etsy...so much of it really is unique and lovely.

    3 years ago

  • lunamae

    lunamae says:

    love your dresses, love the pictures. Thanks for the good tips!

    3 years ago

  • dragonhouseofyuen

    dragonhouseofyuen says:

    what a very informative and thorough article - I didn't realise how challenging it can be for dressmakers! thank you and I wish all the dressmakers the best of success

    3 years ago

  • RevelStudios

    RevelStudios says:

    Thanks for the tips! I will have to step-up my photos now...

    3 years ago

  • topsyturvydesign

    topsyturvydesign says:

    Well said rubypearl! I owe my business to the FAB photographers & models I work with. I create the hatties, but they create the worlds in which they live... xoxo Kim of TTD

    3 years ago

  • monamivie

    monamivie says:

    I love your dresses, I'm gonna check out your store right now!

    3 years ago

  • refinerydesigns

    refinerydesigns says:

    etsy is like a rad fashion magazine! The creativity and professionalism of the photography is amazing and inspiring. Thank you all.

    3 years ago

  • AlloverArt

    AlloverArt says:

    Wonderful wonderful work. :)

    3 years ago

  • tatteredrouge

    tatteredrouge says:

    Faboo informational article. Thanks for the excellent ideas. ...and your design style ROCKS!

    3 years ago

  • BluCille

    BluCille says:

    Wow. How involved to pay photographers and models!

    3 years ago

  • annarubyking

    annarubyking says:

    Wonderful article! and I love your work! thanks for sharing all these ideas!

    3 years ago

  • sweetshorn

    sweetshorn says:

    Informative and inspiring - thank you!

    3 years ago

  • GenesisJewelrybyLily

    GenesisJewelrybyLily says:

    I'll need to find a jewelry model and photographer for great pictures. I'm a new seller on Etsy so I have a lot of information to take in. Thanks for the great suggestions.

    3 years ago

  • PetitPlat

    PetitPlat says:

    Very interesting article and full of good ideas :)

    3 years ago

  • christinececelia

    christinececelia says:

    Great photos & wonderful article!!! Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • ItsBella

    ItsBella says:

    great ideas! I had just started a thread in the forums the other day about what is better-using a dress form or a live model. Now if I could just get my slips/camis looking this good! excellent post.

    3 years ago

  • yaelfran

    yaelfran says:

    Interesting story!!! Thanks for sharing!

    3 years ago

  • ChenilleTreasures

    ChenilleTreasures says:

    Wow!! What a story! I don't even sell clothing, but it inspires me to find a better way to use photography to sell. Thanks! (Love your dresses!)

    3 years ago

  • tworavens

    tworavens says:

    proof that with a willingness to put yourself out there, you can realize your creative dreams... ~christina

    3 years ago

  • mamafamilias

    mamafamilias says:

    These are some great ideas. I need to figure out how they can be translated into children's toys and clothes.

    3 years ago

  • fernfiddlehead

    fernfiddlehead says:

    interesting. I'm not tapping into this idea enough.

    3 years ago

  • Talula

    Talula says:

    A bit biased here, but WOW! Does Texas have some talent or what? I am blown away by your style, and your generosity in sharing your success story! Rock on rubypearl!!!

    3 years ago

  • worksofwhimsy

    worksofwhimsy says:

    Informative article and some fabulous photos!

    3 years ago

  • undertheroot

    undertheroot says:

    just beautiful!!

    3 years ago

  • beachhouseblues

    beachhouseblues says:

    Great work Rubypearl!!

    3 years ago

  • replicca

    replicca says:

    I'm proud to be featured in "related items" - this Etsy venture has re-inspired my love of photography and although it's an ongoing challenge, thankfully there's plenty of inspiration on Etsy! Thanks for the well-spoken advice, rubypearl!

    3 years ago

  • staciemay

    staciemay says:

    Awesome advice! Thanks so much

    3 years ago

  • IcingOnTheCupcake

    IcingOnTheCupcake says:

    Great pictures with models to show items in use!

    3 years ago

  • AnthologiE

    AnthologiE says:

    Thanks for letting us all pick your brain, so to speak. It's great to hear where you started out vs. where you are today and a bit about that process. It's also good to know you can be human (i.e. not so great with a camera) and still have a successful product. Beautiful photos, of course. The creative simplicity is nice. :)

    3 years ago

  • BlackStar

    BlackStar says:

    Very interesting article. And your shop is fabulous!

    3 years ago

  • kmwatkins

    kmwatkins says:

    Wow, the dresses are so cute. The photography is great.

    3 years ago

  • Sinta

    Sinta says:

    Great article, I love her dresses! I'm still trying to improve my photography. Slowly but surely, I'm getting there ^_^

    3 years ago

  • missbatchAdmin

    missbatch says:

    Fantastic tips! Much success to you.

    3 years ago

  • CutieDynamite

    CutieDynamite says:

    Thank you so much for the article! I'm proud to work with some talented models and photographers! I could not do it without them!

    3 years ago

  • beadznthingz

    beadznthingz says:

    Fabulous article and stunning photos! Thanks for sharing this.

    3 years ago

  • raisinlike

    raisinlike says:

    The first photo is absolutely stunning!

    3 years ago

  • LushPunk

    LushPunk says:

    Wow - great article, with a lot of practical and helpful tips - thankyou!

    3 years ago

  • LacySorbet

    LacySorbet says:

    Fab article, I can't wait to hear what you have to say in the virtual labs tonight!

    3 years ago

  • faeriesfolly

    faeriesfolly says:

    Still working on the photography thing, but this gives me some great ideas of how I can get around my own inept attempts at pictures. haha. Thanks for sharing your story!

    3 years ago

  • hautecountryvintage

    hautecountryvintage says:

    Great story & beautiful clothes!!

    3 years ago

  • luluanne

    luluanne says:

    I have followed your work for awhile now and I love your clothing!! Your pictures are gorgeous too. Thanks for the inspiring story and helpful tips!

    3 years ago

  • theaxx

    theaxx says:

    These are like something out of a fairy tale!! Heading STRAIGHT to page immediately!

    3 years ago

  • realisationcreations

    realisationcreations says:

    My goodness - what amazing photos - what a fabulous story!

    3 years ago

  • capturedimagination

    capturedimagination says:

    Good advice! It takes a lot of time to get great photos but it really is worth the effort. Your creations will look worthy of their price and promote a proffesional appearance for your store. I'm deffinitely lacking in that department right now. Since I joined Etsy I've been working on getting better pics for my products and I've gotten some great ones that I'm really proud of. They are making me realize how much my whole store needs a makeover. Thanks for the encouragment and great tips!

    3 years ago

  • budpnq

    budpnq says:

    Excellent, excellent article. I love your story--thanks so much for sharing your experience :D

    3 years ago

  • LaCometaLab

    LaCometaLab says:

    Sich a inspiring article. Thanks for sharing all those great tips rubypearl!!

    3 years ago

  • willywaw

    willywaw says:

    Thank you for such great ideas and good information - I'm inspired and ready to re-do all my photos!

    3 years ago

  • Corpseknit

    Corpseknit says:

    Thank you so much for these tips! Great advice!

    3 years ago

  • quiltelegance

    quiltelegance says:

    Great ideas...now if I can just find someone who wears quilts....grin!

    3 years ago

  • Waterrose

    Waterrose says:

    What beautiful, enticing photography.... now if I only had a great arm/wrist for my cuffs...LOL

    3 years ago

  • LaireMarie

    LaireMarie says:

    I love all of these dresses!!!!

    3 years ago

  • immax

    immax says:

    Rubypearl is definitely The most creative and brilliant artist I have ever encountered! Keep the beauty flowing!

    3 years ago

  • dearbirthday

    dearbirthday says:

    i LOOOOVE rubypearl. amazing super fantastic dresses and sweet as can be to boot!

    3 years ago

  • WillOaksStudio

    WillOaksStudio says:

    Truly stunning photos and clothing and great collection of ideas and inspiration! Thanks for sharing and keep going, girl!

    3 years ago

  • smilingbluedog

    smilingbluedog says:

    Thankyou for the wonderful info & advise. I'm still new & I have some blurry photos similar to yours. Getting good photos is definately #1. Beautiful dresses!

    3 years ago

  • JetWhitePonytail

    JetWhitePonytail says:

    Pictures truly speak a 1000 words, and how divine when they are all loudly shouting, "FABULOUS!"

    3 years ago

  • SomewhatHip

    SomewhatHip says:

    Definitely a great idea, I'm already planning on shipping some of my shop out to a friend who offered to take some pics in studio. I was so stoked when he offered! I'm even more excited now that I've read this article, gorgeous photos!

    3 years ago

  • rubypearl

    rubypearl says:

    Hey How come everyone is so nice? I am blushing! We have rescheduled the talk to today 3:Oo my time and 4:00 other people's time. Apparently there is a "time difference" depending on what part of the country you live in? I don't know, you guys with your crazy science tricks. So Please re-visit the Virtual Lab today at 3/4 United States time and I promise to be there today! Thanks so much for everyone's kind comments, this has been a lot of fun, Sunny

    3 years ago

  • mydeepbluec

    mydeepbluec says:

    Hey Sunny...it's Your favorite stalker ..:) Great article..and You know I just adore Your work and think You are so cool ! Now where's those scraps You promised Me ?? Just Kidding ! Keep up the BEAUTIFUL work !! Rachel

    3 years ago

  • Weezawear

    Weezawear says:

    Thanks for the great article and lab today. I learned a lot.

    3 years ago

  • Lanne

    Lanne says:

    Awesome article - and you are so right.. many photographers would be happy to participate. I am a Brisbane based photographer creating fine art portraiture for newborns, toddlers, children and families. I would be happy to work on a project with people in my area who wanted photos of their products. I am sure there are lots of mutual benefits - not least of which is getting to know new people and see lovely new etsy products. We book about 10 months in advance, but we do have some free time occasionally. Anyone in Brisbane interested.. let me know via contact :)

    3 years ago

  • samsstuff

    samsstuff says:

    Some good advise! I am photographically challenged, at least when it come to digital product photography, so this is helpful. Don't know how many celebrities (even mid level ones) I might find in my area (probably many in Seattle), but there have got to be photographers about. Your dresses are gorgeous, by the way! Thanks for the article!

    3 years ago

  • 1AEON

    1AEON says:

    :) thanks for the feature!! the other pics are soo sweet as well!!

    3 years ago

  • JAGBAGTAG

    JAGBAGTAG says:

    *so lovely and inspiring* ...and so rightly directed... thanks for the insight... it's definitely needed. You're now another fabulous favorite on Etsy! muchas gracias

    3 years ago

  • KabiDesigns

    KabiDesigns says:

    Great Story ^_^ Thanks for Sharing ^_^

    3 years ago

  • fugsly

    fugsly says:

    excellent article, I really enjoyed reading this one.

    3 years ago

  • stellaandlux

    stellaandlux says:

    FABULOUS story and photos! if anyone is interested and located in/around atlanta, id LOVE to do some photography for you :] /shameless plug

    3 years ago

  • lullabylily

    lullabylily says:

    love this article, thank you! My loveys look great being held so think i may try some of these great tips - hello Glasgow School of Art!!

    3 years ago

  • ginmartini

    ginmartini says:

    OMG!!! You guys!!!! this is EXACTLY what i needed to hear right now!!! I've been having trouble getting my stuff off my shelves, mainly my socks, so im taking the time this week to get some good pictures of them on a plain white background to bring out the color more...now im just rambling!!! Im excited for this article, thanks for the suggestions on promoting. Im excited now!!!!! Gin Martini

    3 years ago

  • msduds

    msduds says:

    Thank you so much for sharing. Like you, I'm currently shifting my focus from boutiques to the internet. I have always used dress forms, but will definitely try it your way next. xoxo

    3 years ago

  • NayArts

    NayArts says:

    great stuff - so much talent!

    3 years ago

  • protegezmoi

    protegezmoi says:

    oh nice photography! i always believe that photography can bring products to life! photography is my passion i love taking fun shots! Here are some of my photography, http://flickr.com/photos/34235494@N04/ , oh by the way im located in singapore! =)

    3 years ago

  • yaffa

    yaffa says:

    Although not my style dresses but, hey!everybody has her own,right? But the article is great! I would never think about some tips you have mentioned! Well done!!!

    3 years ago

  • bijougirldesigns

    bijougirldesigns says:

    Really fantastic article! Thanks for sharing your success story with us!

    3 years ago

  • laijen

    laijen says:

    Wonderful article. Your passion really comes through in it! Thank you for all the advice.

    3 years ago

  • spongetta

    spongetta says:

    Thank you for sharing that we don't have to do every little step ourselves. Great encouragement to work to our strengths and network to find people to fill in the cracks!

    3 years ago

  • hempandmore

    hempandmore says:

    This is a GREAT story - WOW!! I can relate with thinking things won't sell on the internet - INSPIRING!!

    3 years ago

  • windyhillfibers

    windyhillfibers says:

    What fun dresses. Although I don't think I'll find too many rock stars here in Iowa, I appreciate the photography info. (Very cool that Patti Griffin wore your dress!) Your photos capture the drape, color, and texture of the dresses very well, and that is exactly what I have to work on. Thanks for the inspiration to get moving on some new photos.

    3 years ago

  • Refresh

    Refresh says:

    love the story and advice, thank you for sharing!

    3 years ago

  • TheBeehive

    TheBeehive says:

    Great ideas and gorgeous clothes!

    3 years ago

  • judemcconkey

    judemcconkey says:

    Great clothes, great article... I agree about the photography of clothing on Etsy (the photography of ANYThING on Etsy, really). The photos have to draw a viewer in. Thanks for this article!

    3 years ago

  • PDXfabricdeli

    PDXfabricdeli says:

    Fun finds and great clothes. Photos are everything, thanks for sharing.

    3 years ago

  • KloseKnits

    KloseKnits says:

    Photos are great. Thanks for all the help.

    3 years ago

  • yosemitevintage

    yosemitevintage says:

    This is a great angle that I hadn't considered and am thankful for the article. Etsy rocks and I'm so darn happy to be hear.

    3 years ago

  • zahidshams

    zahidshams says:

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    3 years ago

  • LaFemmeNatale

    LaFemmeNatale says:

    Baltimore, Washington DC, Eastern Shore People, I will photograph your fashion creations for you! convo me

    3 years ago

  • elysiumdesign

    elysiumdesign says:

    LUV your dresses ruby!! So inspiring to see one of a kind takin over!! EXELLENT PICS!!

    3 years ago

  • DearBeatrice

    DearBeatrice says:

    Great photos and article! As a fellow seller, I believe that attractive photos of the items make them more attractive to buy!

    3 years ago

  • spitfaced

    spitfaced says:

    If anyone in NYC or Long Island needs a photographer for their clothes, let me know...

    3 years ago

  • StraathofDesign

    StraathofDesign says:

    Thanks for advise, I am a photographer, I can see I need some models for my hats.

    3 years ago

  • RevolutionClothingCo

    RevolutionClothingCo says:

    awesome article

    3 years ago

  • justjendesigns

    justjendesigns says:

    just what I needed. Thank you.

    3 years ago

  • maefairvintage

    maefairvintage says:

    Beautiful Kaylan!

    3 years ago

  • PatternRevue

    PatternRevue says:

    Very helpful information.

    3 years ago

  • BeyondUsual

    BeyondUsual says:

    All I can say is: WOW. A WHOLE NEW PERSPECTIVE AT THINGS. THANK YOU

    3 years ago

  • queenartist

    queenartist says:

    good stuff.

    2 years ago

  • jenniferdennispotter

    jenniferdennispotter says:

    Erykah Badu! How exciting! I love her work. And your work really shines with those great photos!

    2 years ago

  • steampunkjunq

    steampunkjunq says:

    Very interesting! Thanks! :)

    2 years ago

  • Samantha33

    Samantha33 says:

    Your article is very inspiring...thank you. I started thinking about using a hand model for my bracelets and after reading your article I definitely will move forward with this. Thank you so much!

    2 years ago

  • TheNightjar

    TheNightjar says:

    love the dresses- you have yet another fan, and thanks for the photo tips!

    2 years ago

  • SMboutique

    SMboutique says:

    Thank you for sharing your story, I can relate so much to the fact that my hats draw so much attention live but I have not managed to get my etsy shop to work out...you are so right with the photo quality and exposure;)Will try and implement your great advicesnow;)

    2 years ago

  • banfflines

    banfflines says:

    Rubypearl's edgy Diva look, is certainly well presented and photographed.

    2 years ago

  • EarringVixen

    EarringVixen says:

    I am way too in love with the gray dress with the red flower in the front. Beautiful work and excellent article. Maybe I need better pics too.. I take them myself and I try very hard, but I'm not a professional and of course you can tell. I sell so much in person, and there has even been a case where a buyer's sister TOOK the earrings and didn't want to give them back, so she gave the buyer money for the earrings and extra money for the buyer to get her a second pair. But online, just one sale for now. Thanks again for the article, big help!

    2 years ago

  • kinaloon

    kinaloon says:

    I love your dresses. And your right seeing them on the singers etc. helps get the full picture. Thanks for your advise.

    2 years ago

  • frogsandflowers

    frogsandflowers says:

    I try to use models for my little girl clothing. I have been blessed with find a few GREAT photographers that are willing to trade what i send them for pictures...It makes your items come to life!!

    2 years ago

  • silverstoned

    silverstoned says:

    I'm inspired by this article! I've just started creating my etsy shop so your tips are very valued. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us! x

    2 years ago

  • Scallyrags

    Scallyrags says:

    love the advise thanks!

    2 years ago

  • Graciewear

    Graciewear says:

    I'm so impressed with your get up and go and I LOVE patty griffin. Great article.

    2 years ago

  • bellta

    bellta says:

    I love very much I follow You

    2 years ago

  • LuxuryJewelry

    LuxuryJewelry says:

    Good advise,thank you.

    2 years ago

  • MooBeeTees

    MooBeeTees says:

    Great article btw! We just need to get rid of rogue sellers...admin...mods...anyone...how do we report?

    2 years ago

  • TeaAtHomeWithOlivia

    TeaAtHomeWithOlivia says:

    Thank you for the advise. Love it!

    2 years ago

  • eclecticbysari

    eclecticbysari says:

    This was really great, thank you!

    2 years ago

  • HandmadeByKat

    HandmadeByKat says:

    Great dresses, gorgeous photos, and very inspirational!

    2 years ago

  • BebesDecor

    BebesDecor says:

    Thanks for the wonderful tips. Pictures are very important specially on Etsy your pictures determine whether the person likes your work or not. Details and clarity in pictures also help. (: Thanks again!!!

    2 years ago

  • FrenchKnot2U

    FrenchKnot2U says:

    I don't know what I like more -ruby pearl's garments or her wild and imaginative tales posted on her shop; they match the creativity found in her dresses. Ruby, I have a best pal who lives in Austin. She loves the music scene! P.S. thanks for lifting my spirits today with your tips and thoughts on photographing one's work :) I am in photography hell right now!

    2 years ago

  • BodaciousBiddies

    BodaciousBiddies says:

    Thanks for the inspiration! Great article!

    2 years ago

  • LivWild

    LivWild says:

    Those photos are great, the dresses look amazing!

    1 year ago

  • kathartstudio

    kathartstudio says:

    Thanks for the great tips and wonderful article!

    1 year ago

  • VintageStarrBeads

    VintageStarrBeads says:

    I really have a hard time with photos. No matter what i do! I am amazed that i sell things!-Rachelle Starr

    1 year ago

  • KristyLynnJewelry

    KristyLynnJewelry says:

    Thanks for the great article and tips. I am constantly revamping and improving my pics!!

    1 year ago

  • ikabags

    ikabags says:

    Excellent article !

    1 year ago

  • ArtisticIntentions

    ArtisticIntentions says:

    Great article! Funny you mentioned the musician thing! My daughter is a fabulous singer & I always make her wear my jewelry on stage! Works out great for both of us!!

    1 year ago

  • HeartGoddess

    HeartGoddess says:

    Wow, great article! Thank you so much for all the great tips. I'm trying to reach out to new clients with my goddess jewelry line and you just gave me some really valuable information. Thanks again;nd continued success to you!

    1 year ago

  • ZambakDesigns

    ZambakDesigns says:

    Lots of great advice. Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • StringsnTings

    StringsnTings says:

    Great advice, thank you so much!

    1 year ago

  • backcreekclay

    backcreekclay says:

    Love your designs and the photography is excellent. While your advice is great for your product and items of clothing, I find it hard to do unique shots of my product, pottery. I am known in my family as the worst photographer of the group. Always cutting off heads! The photography end of this deal is what holds me back from listing more. Thanks anyway, great ideas.

    1 year ago

  • lilcoop1

    lilcoop1 says:

    Great article. It gives me so many ideas

    1 year ago

  • WATTOonline

    WATTOonline says:

    Thanks for sharing. We got some of our models, our hair stylist and makeup artists for trade on Etsy and my good friend took a lot of the shots ( the bad shots on our site are ours. LOL) WE gave eveyone free product and a disk of their shots. It worked out great for everyone!

    1 year ago

  • NonisGourmet

    NonisGourmet says:

    Fabulous! :]

    1 year ago

  • sasphotos

    sasphotos says:

    Excellent!!

    1 year ago

  • kimnelsondesigns

    kimnelsondesigns says:

    thanks for sharing

    1 year ago

  • darrylblack

    darrylblack says:

    Love this article -so helpful and inspiring.Thank you so much. And I love your clothes too Rubypearl. I really need help with my photos - as i am constantly making new stuff and all one off items the problem is setting up a photo shoot every week is tricky and time consuming....as I do a market stall every week too some things never even get photographed!

    1 year ago

  • NoMoreTwistHandmade

    NoMoreTwistHandmade says:

    great tips about getting musicians to model your work! i am a musician (thus work with musicians) and i have totally overlooked this goldmine of opportunity. i'm so grateful for wonderful folks like you willing to share your fabulous marketing ideas to those of us who really have a hard time thinking that way!

    1 year ago

  • goddesslydia

    goddesslydia says:

    On of the most inspiring articles I've read!

    1 year ago

  • melangerie

    melangerie says:

    Great article. The first photo and the dress are both inspired! If I were a woman (etsyer husband) I'd buy that in a minute from Holly's photo!

    1 year ago

  • CounterFitCakes

    CounterFitCakes says:

    Thanks for sharring! Great photos above!

    1 year ago

  • opendoorstudio

    opendoorstudio says:

    it is all about marketing your product and you GET IT! great job and thank you for sharing your ideas with us ! wonderful. sounds like Austin is the place to be!

    1 year ago

  • smilingbluedog

    smilingbluedog says:

    What a great article! Marketing & photos are so important...I've really got to work on that.

    1 year ago

  • TodaysBaby

    TodaysBaby says:

    I've started a new line of Plus Size dresses and tops for tweens and teens and have been wracking my brain trying to figure out how to get models without insulting some kids. I think moms might be leery if I advertised on Craig's List and I can't really approach girls on the street. Any ideas anyone? If so, please convo me. Thanks. Great article.

    1 year ago

  • OpusMuse

    OpusMuse says:

    fabulous tips to ponder & act upon! the photography of a professional makes a world of difference. always been a fan of your beautiful OOAK dresses rubypearl!

    1 year ago

  • TRAMPmillinery

    TRAMPmillinery says:

    Great tips to think about. Just about to do a photoshoot today, came at a perfect time!

    1 year ago

  • loscrignodililly

    loscrignodililly says:

    Great article, so helpful!!! Thank you very much!! ^_^

    1 year ago

  • AlikiBags

    AlikiBags says:

    Hi Ruby Pearl,if I would wear a hat I would raise it in admiration! The pictures really give a "feel" to your gorgeous creations - thanks for the tips! x

    1 year ago

  • gumdropgrove

    gumdropgrove says:

    Great tips and photos! Thanks Ruby Pearl! I have also been giving discounts to customers who send in great appreciation photos of their kids with my garments - some have been excellent! Although nothing replaces the eye of a professional photographer - thanks!

    1 year ago

  • ElephunksTrunk

    ElephunksTrunk says:

    This is a very helpful article. I've seen lots of good articles about photographing small items that fit into a light box but not so much about photography with a model. My biggest challenge is that I sell hats and hair accessories which also work best modeled, but really require an awesome outfit to match in order to shine. I don't do clothing design.

    1 year ago

  • MattiOnline

    MattiOnline says:

    Great insights! Thanks for sharing!!

    1 year ago

  • monkeynorman

    monkeynorman says:

    Really great article. I love Holly Brunkow's photography, the lighting is beautiful

    1 year ago

  • JustineJustineSupply

    JustineJustineSupply says:

    i loooooove love love your dresses! this is a great article!! thank you for sharing great info with us!

    1 year ago

  • Lillypicadilly

    Lillypicadilly says:

    A most stimulating story and beautiful pictures of beautiful designs. Thank You GB.

    1 year ago

  • RipandStitchDiva

    RipandStitchDiva says:

    Wonderful article! Beautiful pictures.

    1 year ago

  • molecularmuse

    molecularmuse says:

    I *love* rubypearl dresses. Gotta get one for my uke debut!

    1 year ago

  • bethany18

    bethany18 says:

    Yep photography definately does matter A LOT!

    1 year ago

  • trashsuperstore

    trashsuperstore says:

    great advice, things i did not even think about before suddenly make perfect sense, thanks

    1 year ago

  • NoFrump

    NoFrump says:

    wonderful tips...thanks!

    1 year ago

  • recycledwares

    recycledwares says:

    what great ideas for those who sell clothing. would never of thought to contact musicians and offer free clothing in return for photo leads.

    1 year ago

  • OnTheRoadVintage

    OnTheRoadVintage says:

    I recently asked a local female musician, with a band called Mellow Yellow (music of the '60's and '70's) if she would be my muse. I'm sending her vintage items to wear on stage.

    1 year ago

  • dawgface

    dawgface says:

    wow, such great advice! thanks! i'm definitely bookmarking this for future reference!

    1 year ago

  • CourtneyCopeland

    CourtneyCopeland says:

    Beautiful Photos! They say it all! Thanks for the inspiring success story!

    1 year ago

  • honngaijewelry

    honngaijewelry says:

    nice photo...thanks

    1 year ago

  • mark13148

    mark13148 says:

    Thanks.

    1 year ago

  • handpaintedsilks

    handpaintedsilks says:

    great ideas! Thanks :)

    1 year ago

  • annashoub

    annashoub says:

    Wow, good for you for being so bold. You are definitely an inspiration. Thanks for all the great advice.

    1 year ago

  • nekoleh

    nekoleh says:

    Hola Your on the seen doing your thing.. You Go Girl! Thanks for the great advice.

    1 year ago

  • nekoleh

    nekoleh says:

    Opps.. scene

    1 year ago

  • RebirthRecycling

    RebirthRecycling says:

    Thanks for the tips..back to the drawing room!

    1 year ago

  • challenevi

    challenevi says:

    I really love this post!! I love your point of view on how you do your business and I really LOVE your dresses!! =) I will be shopping from you soon!

    1 year ago

  • AdinaAndGem

    AdinaAndGem says:

    Great ideas! Thanks for sharing them :) Love your dresses!!

    1 year ago

  • edith

    edith says:

    very good ideas here, and it's so very true that the key to more selling is good photos.

    236 days ago