How to Shoot Socks and Nylons Pics

Socks and nylons are their own style page, and buyers who like them usually want detail: the fabric, the fit and the toes through it.

Pick what photographs well

• White and pastel ankle socks show shape and shadows clearly.
• Sheer nude or black nylons show the toes through the fabric. Matte reads better than very shiny.
• Knee socks and thigh highs work for full-leg shots. Keep the background plain so the pattern stands out.
• Clean, unfaded pairs. Pilling and stretched cuffs show up in close-ups.

Light the fabric

• Side light from a window shows the texture of knit socks.
• For sheer nylons, light from slightly behind the foot so the sheen runs along the sole.
• Avoid the flash. It turns nylon into a flat, shiny blur.

Angles and sets

• Soles up through the fabric, toes pointed, and a side view of the arch.
• A slow series makes a set: on, half off, off. Number the photos so buyers see the order.
• Close-ups of the toe seam and heel are popular in nylon sets.
• Short clips of pulling socks off or wiggling toes in nylons work well as reels.

Caption it plainly

Say the color, fabric and count: "8 photos, white ankle socks, soles up." Words like socks, nylons, stockings and tights put you on the Socks and nylons page.