The perfect shot might look simplistic, but it is made possible by careful planning, artful composition and skilful execution. You may know the basics — have a good camera, learn to use your camera, use a tripod, use proper lighting, set up the perfect background — but you need to invest a bit more time in the creativity department to capture photos that sell and convert. In this article, we’ll give you helpful tips on how to take good product photos.
How to take good product photos
Learn how to take better product photos with these tips.
1. Choose a type of product photo.
A product against a clean, white backdrop is, more often than not, a solid choice for a product photo. However, if you want to be more impactful and dynamic, there are different types of product photography shots that you can shoot. Some of them are:
- Studio/individual shot – the product is placed against a minimalist background (can be white, black, wooden panels, grass, stone, marble, etc.) in the picture. Notice how flat lay shots incorporate minimalist backdrops to create a clean, easy-to-read composition.
Perfect for: Displaying the item without distractions so the audience can thoroughly evaluate it.
- Lifestyle/in-context shot – a photo where the product is used, worn or displayed in its “natural habitat.”
Perfect for: Making your customer relate the product to their hobbies, interests, preferences, or routine, helping them connect on an emotional and practical level. A lot of still life photographs incorporate in-context shots.
- Detail/macro shot – a close-up view of the product that focuses on a specific feature or characteristic.
Perfect for: Showcasing how the product looks, its composition, quality, and special features. Jewellery photography tends to use this style.
Scale shot – the photo displays the size of the product by including a recognisable object next to the item for size reference. There are many creative ways to accomplish a scale shot.
Perfect for: Demonstrating the size of the product more accurately using a comparison.
- Packaging shot – the picture shows the product in its packaging. Sometimes, it also demonstrates how the item is packaged.
Perfect for: Brand awareness and promotion. If your packaging is unique and attractive, it can also show the audience that your products can be sent as gifts as they are.
2. Try different composition techniques.
Are you looking for ways to take more visually stimulating images? There are several composition techniques you can try:
- Rule of thirds – accomplished by moving the product away from the middle of the frame and putting it at the intersection of two imaginary horizontal and vertical lines.
- Rule of odds – accomplished by arranging the photo elements in odd numbers.
- Negative space – accomplished by leaving part or most of the frame unoccupied to draw visual attention to the subject.
- Leading lines – accomplished by framing photo elements to create lines that draw the viewer’s eye toward a specific point of interest or the subject
3. Shoot from different angles.
Strange angles can sometimes distort a product — but can also be a creative way to convey it. Don’t be afraid to take multiple shots of the subject from different, odd angles. Shooting a variety can also help you show off the many facets and features of your product, perfect for items that are highly detailed or have multiple functions.
That said, don’t stop at angles with experimentation — take as many photos as you can, rearrange props and elements as you’d like to explore creative concepts, and switch up photo styles. Sometimes, giving personality and impact to your pictures requires letting yourself loose in new, unorthodox ideas.
Stand out from the competition.
If you want to take your brand’s marketing to the next level and rise above the competition, you should consult professional photographers. Feel free to call us at +61 (0)488 993 245 or send a message today for your next project.
