The all important photograph

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and when it gees to buying and selling items online, it may well be worth thousands of dollars as well. This information is intended to help those who are not professional photographers make the most of the camera they have, without having to learn any fancy photography terminology or techniques.
First of all, please keep in mind at all times that the purpose of the photographs are to represent your item HONESTLY, not to downplay flaws in an effort to trick anyone.
Part 1: Your camera. You don't need a fancy, 8 megapixel camera for good photos. I prefer a 2 MP model in fact, because the small file size works well for uploading the item quickly, both for seller and the buyer. A macro setting is desirable, and easy to use. This feature allows you to take clear photos at very close range to show small details. Check the instruction guide on how to use the macro setting. Use fully charged batteries since ones that are nearly empty tend to take blurrier shots.
Part 2: The setting. If the item is small and portable, either take it outside under natural light, or into a room with many windows that allow plenty of natural light.
Part 3: The shot. Choose a plain backdrop of a contrasting color to your item. A white item, highlighted against a white backdrop, is not going to show up very well. Your backdrop can be something as simple as sitting on the floor with a solid cabinet behind it, or a sheet draped over a chair. Just make sure it's simple~ the viewers should be examining your item for sale, not your background.
Get your basic shots out of the way first. Show the entire item, both front and back, top and bottom, whatever is applicable to whatever it is you're selling. Then, start showing details. By all means, showcase the good points, but remember to also be sure to photograph the flaws as well. A good rule of thumb is the more expensive the item is, the more photographs you should expect to have to take. One photograph might indeed do if you're selling a leaf rake, but if you're selling a vehicle, two dozen or more would certainly not be unreasonable to expect.
After you have uploaded all of your photos, take the time to actually examine them all closely. Is there something that looks wrong with the item, but is actually just a glare from the camera? If so, point that out in your description. If there is a flaw that is not showing up well, point that out as well. People will appreciate the honesty, and their confidence will be reflected in the bidding.
The Golden Rule definately applies here. Ask yourself, "If I was the buyer, what areas would I like to see more photos of?" "What areas of this item would be cause for concern?" If you put yourself in the buyer's shoes, explain clearly any flaws your item has, both with a verbal description and photos, and try to remember that honest gemunication is the key, okay will be a rewarding experience for all,regardless of whichside of the Paypal button you're sitting on.