Product images are usually the first item perused by potential buyers, especially online. Capturing these images for products that are to be sold is called product photography. Also known as e-commerce photography and merchandise photography, this type of photography is usually completed on assignment in the commercial photography domain.
As we take to the online world, online shopping will play a more and more important role in everyday life. Be it clothes, equipment, food or everyday items, almost anything can be ordered online, and the way to gain people’s trust online is through product photography that depicts the item accurately.
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The importance of product photography
Product photography is a genre that has developed significantly to become one of the most important aspects of product sales and will continue to do so into the future.
The right equipment
When stepping into the field of product photography, you do not require specifically unique photography equipment, however as you gain experience the importance of high-quality equipment will become increasingly apparent. Otherwise, with a regular DSLR from Sony, Canon, Nikon or your preference, along with the lens kits that come with the cameras, you are good to get started!
Also known as e-commerce photography and merchandise photography, this type of photography is usually completed on assignment in the commercial domain.
Tripod and lighting
You will need a sturdy tripod as product photography will usually require tack-sharp images, likely multiple shots, and will at times get tiring. To add some life to the photographs, light stands, speed light brackets, backgrounds and clamps may be required. You can also use reflectors and cutters to play with light and shadows to create the shot you visualise. Always aim to produce great natural-looking lighting for your product.
A guide to camera settings
Primarily, where you can, shoot product photography entirely in manual mode as it will give you enhanced control over your camera settings. It is also important to photograph in RAW mode. RAW data is more detailed and allows for a deeper level of control to retouch during post-processing.
Whilst learning to shoot product photography, take the time to experiment with a wide variety of products. Study the shadows, highlights, and varying types of backgrounds to see what works and what does not based on your manual camera settings.
Aperture
For product photography on a small-scale, experiment with apertures of f/4.5 to f/7.0 and see what the results are on a bright and plain background compared to apertures of f/8.0 and above. If it is an outdoor shoot and you do not have a plain backdrop, you can use a wider lens going about f/2.5 or more to focus on the product and to blur the background. Always remember to keep the lens focused sharply on the product.
Explore manual settings
Explore further manual settings as you move ahead in your project. Even though product photography is mostly a commercial venture it doesn’t mean that you can’t add some artistic creativity to the session. Especially with lighting, shadows, and the background setting. Photography is all about creativity and imagination, so use this to your benefit during product photography.
The nature of the product photography shoot
You will most likely have been approached by a commercial photography client to photograph their products, so make sure you understand their needs. Determine the type of shoot required, the number of products and ask if they have a styles guide. You will also need to know where the results are going to be published and file type and size for delivery. Knowing these will help you plan for the session accordingly.
Understand the angles
Different angles and compositions could be used to denote or highlight key elements of products. For example, a close-up shot will capture the product design in detail, but a wide shot may show the product in use in a broader environment. Overall, you need to be clear on what you wish to showcase to the audience.
Mood boards
Mood boards are a collage or collection of pictures that closely match the outcome expected from the product photography session. The first step is to determine the client’s vision and to create a mood board of reference images and colour palettes that provides for an overall idea of the expectations from the product photographer. With mood boards, the photographer will direct their creativity in the right direction.
Background
If possible, visit the shoot location a day prior if it is an outdoor assignment. It will allow you to understand the lighting, background, and the type of shots possible in the area. You can also use different elements from one setting to another, for example, windows, tables, and chairs adding multiple props while keeping a water bottle as the main focus.
Plan the product photography assignment
Even if it is an indoor shoot, you will need to plan your shots. Make use of different coloured backgrounds and other elements that will add to the client’s vision.
Trial and Error
When first starting out in product photography, and especially while learning your skill, there will be some trial and error involved. It will not be good enough to just shoot away without checking the outcome, so make sure you are measured in your approach. Do not make the rookie mistake of blazing away with the shutter and hoping for the best – take your time and set up each shot. Do not be concerned if the results are not exactly what you expected, as you can always improve by changing settings and trying again.
Post-processing product photography
No need for premium applications and software, you can use any most basic editing software for post-processing your product images. Make sure to keep a similar colour palette and a consistent pattern of editing to your pictures. You can also add brand colours as required.
You will also have to optimize these pictures for publication. Whether these are going to be posted online on an e-commerce website or for social media marketing, you need to edit and save the images according to the requirements of the client.
Resolution and quality
Some product assignments may be for magazine use, or other print media which will require high resolution images (as a guide, usually 300dpi and minimum 4000x6000px or higher). You will also need to determine whether the images will be required to be delivered in sRGB, Adobe RGB or CMYK colour gamut. For web applications, lower resolution photographs in sRGB colour profile will usually suffice.
Challenging but rewarding
Product photography is an important cog in the marketing plans of start-ups, small business and well-established companies alike. Many commercial businesses are constantly looking for excellent product photographers.
If you are looking to try this genre, it can be one of the most challenging but also one of the most financially rewarding photographic careers. If you are already an experienced photographer, you would have very little to no trouble curating a product photo shoot.
Product Photography Portfolio
Build a website portfolio of your product images and also display them on your social media accounts at TikTok, Facebook and Instagram.
Make money with product photography!
Product photography is a paid commercial enterprise.