With all the latest advances in digital photography, we all think we can take photos like the pros. Right? Well, there is more to product photography than you think. You need to have a basic knowledge of composition, lighting, and know how to tell a story. Here are few tips to get you started.
Composition: What is it? A simple definition is the act of composing the product you are shooting in the viewfinder. It’s really more than point, shoot, and click. It’s a visual process of organizing several elements into a pleasing arrangement. You also want to convey a message about your product. Even though composition is a subjective matter, there are a few rules to follow:
- Keep it simple. Avoid cluttering the set with non-essential accessories.
- Understand the rule of thirds. It’s one of the most well-known principles of photography. Imagine your image broken down into thirds both horizontally and vertically so that your image is divided into nine parts. When you look through the viewfinder these imaginary lines will help you to place any point of interest along the intersected lines to bring balance to your photo. You don’t have to always have your subject dead center in the middle of frame.
- Fill the frame with interest. Place your product contextually with the appropriate environment. You might not want to have your scientific instrument outside under a tree. It might be more credible if it is in a laboratory setting, for example.
- Choose your background wisely. Should you use white or color? Are you trying to make the shot dramatic? Or should you rent a studio backdrop or just find some colored cloth? Again, there is no right or wrong decision. It just depends upon what you are shooting and what message you are trying to convey.
Remember … good, high-quality photography is a key element to selling your products.
