How to Photograph a Car to Sell Online

You don't need a studio or a pro camera. A phone, ten minutes and the right shot list will get you photos that make buyers click.

Prepare the car first

Wash and dry the car, including wheels and tyres. Clear out the cabin, boot and door pockets. Remove air fresheners, phone holders and parking permits.

Pick the right light and spot

Bright overcast days are ideal. Shoot with the sun behind you, keep space around the car, and hold the phone at roughly headlight height.

The shot list buyers expect

Aim for 20 or more photos: front three-quarter, straight front and rear, both sides, rear three-quarter, wheels, dashboard with mileage, seats, boot, screen, service book, keys and any damage.

Common mistakes

Reflections in the paint, tilted photos, wet or dirty cars, portrait photos, and different backgrounds on every photo of the same car.

Make them look studio-shot

Strada Works places the car in a clean studio scene and tidies the cabin in seconds, without changing the car itself.