How to have a great product shoot…
Prep like a boss!
Plan Plan Plan…
1: Research and do what most people do and get yourself over to Pinterest and search product photography ideas, or craft product photography, stationery, skin care, whatever your business is and get creating some ideas! You may even stumble across some of my own pins on Pinterest!
2: Make a list of all the product you want to be included in your shoot. Do you need detail shots of the products? Or will just one photograph be enough of your product? Capture as much detail about your requirements as possible. As a photographer following a detailed plan makes life much simpler and makes sure everything is covered and nothing gets missed.
3: Now you have been researching style and backgrounds on Pinterest, narrow it down. How do you want your product photography to look? Do you want clean and fresh with a hint of colour? Do you want a richer look, something a little darker and moody? People tend to think that the most attractive product photography must be light and airy. But I find when done correctly and lit well darker backgrounds can be exciting and make you stand out from your competitors. It just depends on what you think is right for you.
4: How would like your items photographing? Overhead in a flat lay. Stood tall with loads of impact? Or is lifestyle more suited? People sometimes get a little confused what lifestyle is. Lifestyle photography just simply means showing your products in use. This does not necessarily mean in use with a model or person. It can simply be in an appropriate setting for that product. So, for example if you sell cups, you may want to show your cups on a table with books, a plant or maybe even a mug of coffee. Suggesting your cups be used whilst someone is relaxing reading a book. Are you selling skincare? This does not always have to be shot in use, but using a model can be really effective for this too. You may have a company that makes natural or vegan skin care, you may want to create an earthy, clean and neutral look. Maybe shot on wood, plants as props, trying to match the props to the scents or ingredients, including nature as props always look beautiful and timeless.
The planning stage get’s you to really think about what you want to achieve from your product photography. What look do you want to convey to your customers? Although some people have no idea what they want their photos to look like and are happy to be guided by me with some helpful suggestions. I can draw on my 18 years of experience and guide you on what I think could really make your products look fantastic. It is completely up to you.
I hope you have found this article helpful and if you would like to get in touch with me about your product photography I would love to chat!
Suzanne x
