How to photograph graded Pokémon cards

Updated 2026-10-26

Pokémon cards are harder to photograph than most sports cards. Holo foil, reverse holo and the texture on full arts all reflect light differently from the plastic in front of them. The trick is to show the foil without lighting up the case.

Use soft side light

Window light from one side is best. It brings out the holo pattern while keeping the reflection off to the edge. Cloudy days are even better, because the light is spread out.

Tilt for the holo

Holo cards look flat in a perfectly straight shot. Take one shot flat for the post, then a second with the slab tilted slightly toward the light. That second shot is great for a carousel or a short video.

Full arts and alt arts

Textured cards show their texture when light hits them at a low angle. Lower the slab or raise the light source to the side. Avoid light from straight above, which flattens the texture.

Vintage holos

Base Set and other WOTC holos have a cosmos or star pattern that shows best in bright, even light. Too much contrast makes the holo look grey.

Keep the label readable

Buyers and collectors look at the label first. Make sure the grade and cert number are in focus and not covered by a reflection.

Post it

Grailshot cuts the slab out of your photo and keeps the holo in it, so you only have to get the card right. The background, sizing and layout are done for you.