When you’re looking to sell your Gibson guitar, the quality of your photos can make or break your chances of getting the best possible price. Clear, detailed images help us (and potential buyers) assess the guitar’s authenticity, condition, and value. Think of it this way: the better your photos, the faster and smoother the selling process.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to photograph your Gibson properly, using the example images provided.
The headstock is one of the most important identifiers for a Gibson guitar. Make sure to capture both the front and back clearly.
Front: Focus on the Gibson logo and truss rod cover. Ensure the logo is crisp, and avoid any glare.
Back: The serial number is key for verification. Make sure it’s readable and in focus. If there’s a “Made in USA” stamp, include that too.
Example: In the images provided, the headstock’s front logo and serial number on the back are both clear and well-lit, which makes it easy to verify the guitar’s authenticity.
The neck can reveal a lot about a guitar’s condition. Look for signs of wear, cracks, or repairs.
Side View: Photograph the neck from both sides to show the binding and fret condition.
Straight-on View: This helps us assess if there’s any warping or bowing in the neck.
Example: The photos show both sides of the neck, highlighting the smoothness and absence of major dings or scratches.
A Gibson’s body is its showpiece, but it’s also where signs of use show up first. Capture high-resolution photos of both the front and back.
Front: Focus on the pickups, knobs, bridge, and any unique features like flame maple tops. Be sure to show any scratches, dings, or finish cracks.
Back: Highlight the wood grain and any buckle rash or wear around the edges. If the control cavity covers are present, show those too.
Example: The provided images do an excellent job of showing the vibrant front finish, while also giving a clear view of the back to reveal any signs of wear.
Close-up shots of the tuners, pickups, and bridge give us a better idea of the guitar’s condition and if any parts have been replaced or modified.
Tuners: Are they original? Do they show signs of rust or wear?
Pickups & Knobs: Make sure to show if they’re original Gibson hardware or aftermarket parts.
Bridge and Tailpiece: Capture from angles that show wear, tarnish, or replacement.
Example: The close-ups of the gold tuners and hardware in your images are perfect. They clearly show the condition, which helps in determining if they affect the guitar’s value.
If your Gibson comes with a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) or original documentation, be sure to photograph it.
Serial Number: Ensure the photo is clear and legible.
COA: Show the certificate alongside the guitar to confirm authenticity.
Original Case or Accessories: If you have the original case, include photos of it too.
Example: The photo of the Gibson Custom Certificate of Authenticity in your images adds a significant boost to the guitar’s value and credibility.
Natural light works best, but if that’s not possible, use a well-lit room. Avoid harsh shadows and glare, and never use your camera’s flash as it can distort the finish’s color.
Neutral Background: A plain background keeps the focus on the guitar.
Multiple Angles: Shoot from different perspectives to give a full view.
Before taking photos, give your Gibson a quick clean and polish. Dust, fingerprints, and smudges can make even a high-end guitar look less valuable.
1. Front of Headstock (Logo visible)
2. Back of Headstock (Serial number visible)
3. Full Neck (Front and sides)
4. Full Body (Front and back)
5. Close-ups of Hardware (Tuners, pickups, bridge)
6. Certificate of Authenticity (if available)
7. Original Case and Accessories (if included)
Once you’ve got your photos, send them to us at SellGibson.com for a fast, accurate valuation. High-quality images help us give you the best possible offer—and get your Gibson into the hands of someone who’ll love it as much as you do.
