Use lighting that genuinely reveals defects

The soft light that works well for an overall view can make some surface defects difficult to see.

To document scratches, dents or wear, try slightly more directional side lighting so that the surface gains some contrast.

Also take a contextual image showing where the defect is located.

Avoid both hiding it and using extreme lighting that makes it appear much worse than it normally does.

The goal is to make the defect identifiable and assessable.