The Success of a GOOD Photo Depends on Two Things:

1. FOCUS (The better the focus, the clearer the picture)

2. LIGHTING (Too much or too little light can ruin a otherwise good photo.)

Of course it's always nice to have an expensive camera and tons of fancy equipment, but we don't all have that.  As luck will have it, you can take a good picture with an affordable camera and a small amount of "extras".  (You can do without the "extras" too, but they are fun to have.)

For best results pick a good spot or location to take your photos for your listing.  Try to use the same spot every time if you are able to do that.  By having a specific place for your photos, you can always know how your focus and lighting will turn out.

If you have a tripod it's good to use it to keep your camera steady.  A steady camera will make it easier to keep a good focus and thus give you a cleaner, nicer picture.

Natural lighting is always a plus.  You can also get "natural light" light bulbs.  Different lights will cast different color on your object.  Sometimes this doesn't matter much, but sometimes it can spoil what you are trying to present.

Find  a solid color for your background.  Solid backgrounds don't take away from what you are trying to show.  It's best to have a light background, and also a dark one so you can interchange them with different items.  If you are using material, make sure there are no wrinkles in it and you will get a nicer photo.  Make sure your surfaces are clean - clean table and backdrop.

If you use the same place every time to take your photo you may be able to just leave your equipment set up there. 

If you are still using film, you may use two options to list your item:

1. When you have your film developed request that the photos be put on a disk.
2. If you only have pictures you will need to find a way to scan them so your computer can use them.

Take your time when you take your pictures.  Plan out your composition -- by this I mean to  try to center your item and make sure your background compliments your item.

I think it's good to save your photo in a special file until your item sells.  If your item doesn't sell, there is always a chance that you may want to list it again and want to use the photo.  It's also a good idea to have a picture of what you sold in case there are any problems.  (We always hope there are no problems, but it's good to have a plan just in case.)

I hope you have enjoyed this guide.  Thank you for taking time to read it. 

Have a great day.