6. Scale your content with supporting components
Adding props or coloured backdrops are the perfect way to jazz up your content, set the mood and add dimension to your product photos. Different textures and props make it easier to articulate your story and create consistency with your brand colours and social feed.
Backdrops
The backdrop sets the overall look and feel of the photo so it’s important to be strategic when it comes to this part of the planning. If you want to create something high-energy and vibrant then using a bright colour is going to help you reach your end goal. But, for something clean and uninterrupted, using a white or very light background is the way to go.
Props
Props on the other hand are a bit more difficult to gauge. You should be selective with your props and choose something that compliments your hero product, without becoming a distraction. Your props should reinforce your brand story and elevate the product.
Where to buy product photography props
- Moodelier for product photography props & resources
- Everyday Co. for backdrops and props
- Hypop for foam props
Need a hand with some creative inspo? We offer creative concept sessions before a booking to help brainstorm ideas and create the perfect shoot for your products. Contact us to lock in a creative session pre booking.
7. Lighting is key
The right light can be the difference between a killer piece of content that sells, and something your mum took on her 7 year old Samsung Galaxy. So we’ve been lucky enough to get insights from the real deal herself, Kate McLellan from Aesthetic Socials Media.
Creating the lighting for a perfect product shot, by Aesthetic Socials Media
Lighting is one of the most important elements of a photo. The type of lighting used may differ depending on the style of photo you are wanting to achieve (e.g. soft, no shadows vs hard, shaper shadows). However there are a few lighting techniques that should always come into play.
Techniques by Aesthetic Socials Media:
- Ensure the product is well lit, the label should be easy to read, with no shadows over any text.
- Backlight any clear/liquid products. This is achieved by placing a light source behind the product. The technique is often used for liquor and skincare photography.
- Be aware of your shadows. This is particularly important when taking photos in direct sunlight. It’s preferable to have the shadow behind, and slightly to one side of the product. It is rare that you will ever want a shadow to be in front of the product. It is also important to check that your shadows are not covering up any important details in the photos e.g. product labels or important props
- Use white and black boards. Often placed opposite the light source these boards can be used to modify the effect of the light. A white board will bounce more light back onto the scene, reducing shadows and adding a more even lighting. A black board will absorb incoming light, this is great if you want harsh shadows.
- There’s no need for expensive equipment to create fun lighting effects. To change the light colour you can use coloured cellophane taped to the light source. To create custom shadows, cut out the desired shape from black cardboard.
Kate says, “Lighting is the number #1 thing that can make or break a photo. It’s important to understand the basic concepts of lighting and shadows”. If studio lights are like a second language, then check out our lighting guide for photography.
Ready to get shooting?
Get our free beginners guide to light modifiers or jump straight in and book a session in our photo studio. If you’re a newbie who’s never set foot in a studio and you’re not sure where to start, never fear … We offer pre-shoot creative consults and a shoot assistant on the day to get you through your booking with ease.