People ask about my watch photos. What camera do I use? What lighting setup?
The answer disappoints them: a phone and a window.
Natural light does 90% of the work. Position the watch near a window on an overcast day. The diffused light minimizes reflections on the crystal and brings out dial texture.
Clean the crystal. Sounds obvious but half the bad watch photos I see have smudges that destroy the shot. Microfiber cloth. Every time.
Get close. Phone cameras have excellent macro modes now. Fill the frame with the watch. Nobody needs to see your desk background.
Shoot at slight angles. Straight-on shots flatten the case shape. Tilt 15-20 degrees to catch the brushing patterns and create depth.
Turn off the flash. Always. Flash creates harsh shadows and blows out reflections.
Edit minimally. Boost clarity slightly. Adjust white balance if the shot looks too warm or cool. That’s it.
Professional watch photography requires professional equipment. But shareable, enjoyable watch photography? Your phone handles it fine.
Stop making excuses and start shooting.