Professional Product Photography Tips
It can boost your revenue and transform your impact in the market. That’s the power of product photography.
Because today’s society is easily reached and influenced by visual stimulation—images on Facebook, videos on YouTube or a huge billboard—it’s an absolute must to use it for your business.
But please don’t snap your product images with your smartphone and post it online. The other thing people are used to is high quality. If your products aren’t presented in the best possible way then people may think you’re not serious about business or professional enough to trust as a market leader.
So, let’s help you get it right with a few handy tips…
The Rude Awakening Tip: Be Mentally Prepared for a Long Process
Firstly, it’s important to note that product photography is not a quick process. It may take quite a few tries to get that perfect image.
You need to figure out exactly what will work for the product at hand. What worked last time won’t necessarily work again as each product is unique, requiring different lighting or positioning. And don’t assume what looks great under the light will be amazing on the camera screen or on the printed photograph. What if you get that last print and see you just needed a bit more light to lift out the all-important texture on the surface?
The takeaway: Don’t pack up your set until you know your images are perfect and the work is really done.
The Basics: Get a Room
If you can get the right room you may find the process much easier than you think. A room with huge windows can give you the natural light you need so you’ll spend less time and money on getting lights fitted.
You can even change up the amount of light in your images by simply moving closer or further away from the window. So, sacrifice some personal space or make a smart business move and rent some space. It’s a good investment if it will save you money on equipment and effort in the long run.
The Handy DIY Tip: Make Reflectors
No matter what your light setup is, in the end you’ll need as much light as possible coming from all angles. How? By using reflectors. And if you don’t want to buy some, make your own:
- Cut out squares of board or metal
- Cover them with reflective material such as foil or wrapping paper
- Add connectors or clamps so you can suspend them or prop them where necessary
Now, instead of multiple lights you only need one and some space to position these correctly.
Tip for the Up and Coming Professional Photographer: Invest in Equipment
It’s what will give your images that X-factor: Your equipment takes it one step above what the ordinary photographer can do. So, if this is supposed to be more than a hobby, invest in equipment rather than a book about photography techniques next time you’re out shopping.
Here’s an example: A flash diffuser will require some capital investment but it will ensure your whole image has light instead of only one area. This makes for less harsh lighting, no washout looks and light will seem more natural.
What does this mean for you? Less editing afterwards and a super professional looking image. As you can see, some monetary investment can save you a lot of effort and attract the attention your business needs.
Anyone can get this right, right? Changing a few small details can turn an ordinary photograph into that gripping image that will boost sales and attract clients. Consumers want to be impressed. If you give people what they want and they’ll be flocking to do business with you in no time.
