When we talk about the realization of product photography, perhaps we should mention that one of the most difficult aspects is the creative part. To be so creative that you can distinguish the product, once to attract the attention of customer and once again to take a step forward from the competitor.
Impressive product shots are usually the result of a unique concept and its effective implementation. In many cases, knowledge of the technique and experience are not enough. The last element of the formula for success is to have a few tricks at hand and the ability to apply them so that you turn the object of the image into an irresistible product.
And as for the tricks in product photography:
- water spray
- smoke
- liquid centers and ice next to levitating objects
- means, such as glue, spray, wire
- burner – everything is allowed
Sometimes it is really very difficult to capture the true nature of the subject with the camera. And this can be even more frustrating if specific details escape us and they prove to be crucial to the overall picture. At just such moments, tricks appear to save the shot. Whether you want to enhance the shine of jewelry, emphasize a roasted skin on a piece of chicken, or give a luxurious look to a bottle of wine you will need a few tricks.
When to use tricks in product photography?
Tricks in product photography usually put emphasis on the image. Tricks add that captivating nuance and make the product look natural, while creativity and technique are the basis of creative effects to create an atmosphere in your frame. How do we combine them? Combining colored backgrounds, using different angles or playing with light.
The smallest details can elevate or fail your photo shoot.
One of the main tasks of the photographer is to organize and manage various small details, with which he actually creates the big picture. The small details and additional elements are the detail that can be fatal or, conversely, a springboard for the final photo. Let’s start with the way we have to fix or fasten the product to give it a more interesting look.
For example, photographers often use hooks, wires or fishing line to hang items. They help balance and act as a support, while giving the product a three-dimensional look and some frame dynamics.
Post-processing software is used to remove redundant items.
Photo: hypebeast.com
Dramatic lighting
It’s a favorite trick in product photography. It’s the easiest way to create context. Every product photographer has their own preferences, but it’s important to be able to find the lighting that will allow you to capture the details of the product and highlight your image.
For example, when shooting food, lighting and the position of the subject are equally important. If you use a direct flash in front, the food will definitely not look appetizing. The option would be more successful if the light comes from the side or from a natural source.
It’s also good to know that every dish has a “face” or a specific side from which it looks best. When you find it, don’t forget to shoot from a different angle and take advantage of the light by pointing it at the face. This will emphasize the texture, the glaze or something else that makes the food stand out in front of your lens.
And while we’re still on the subject of food, let’s look at a few additional trick details.
For example, when shooting multi-layered food – a burger type, some photographers use pieces of aluminum foil to separate and distinguish the layers. Toothpicks often serve to fix the ingredients. In order for the food shots to be attractive, you must first pay attention to the products involved in the recipe. Always choose fresh and fresh ingredients.
Photo: https://hostthetoast.com/
Shooting cold food is preferable if you don’t want to have leaves withered by heat or moistened bread in the photos. Vegetable oil or a mixture of glycerin and water is another trick of the “photographer’s sleeve”. An effective way to give an appetizing look or add drops of freshness to food.
For flatter pastries, it’s a good idea to look for a way to increase the volume and add something to make the boring loaf impact. For example, you can use a cloud on a stand and shoot from 45 degrees or why not add a layer of mint leaves under a piece of pastry, which will definitely improve and revive the frame.
Photo: savorthebest.com
One of the most used tools in culinary photography is the burner. With it, each skin looks perfectly toasted, and each caramel cream is perfect.
The light
It is especially important in photography. And that allows you to play with it. Try to illuminate a transparent object from below so that it looks illuminated from the inside. The trick is, the light source is placed just below the object.
If you are shooting a product with an interesting texture, make it as if the light slides on the surface. This will emphasize the details and deepen the shadows, forming a more pronounced look of the texture.
The shadows
Shadows are an exquisite way to create an unusual and intriguing atmosphere or to emphasize an unusual detail. If you use side lighting, such as from a window, the subject will cast a shadow, which is ideal because it will look three-dimensional and somehow natural. In addition, the gentle, natural lighting perfectly reveals the colors.
Photos: kllynederlof.com
Creating shadows will give a feeling of depth.
By applying shadow or reflection during a photo shoot or later when editing, you are given the opportunity to achieve a stylish shot and make your photos stand out. Shadows are one of the most modern tricks in product photography.
Here’s what product photographer Scott Snyder has to say about one of his most ambitious projects in 2019.
“Once we entered the opening phase of the project, it became clear that the general approach to displaying beverages usually includes aspects of pouring, spreading or ingredients flying around the frame. I really wanted to achieve something different that could be separated and give a unique visual voice to the Tractor brand. Furthermore, since Tractor is a food beverage company, there really was no obvious physically packaged or branded product, only the liquid of the beverage itself.
With all this in mind, we focused on a playful arrangement concept that can highlight key ingredients while elevating (literally and figuratively) twenty unique beverage flavors. “https://scottsnyderphoto.com/tractor
From this project we see how the product photographer creates unusual effects with the help of shadows and contrasting colors.
The colors
Colors and photography have always communicated perfectly. Because the right colors complement or make the product stand out. In addition, colors are the preferred way to influence the viewer’s perception.
By adding solid colors, we separate the product from the background, add dimension and breathe life into the image. Suppose you use a gray background and your product is also gray. The image will look dull and even unfriendly. On the other hand, if you choose dark red, blue or black the atmosphere will change. Keep in mind that color strongly affects the appearance and feel of the product.
Photo: marketingvinhos.com
Photo: marketingvinhos.com
Compare how the soft greenish tone adds warmth, while the thick blue background seems to suggest firmness. It exuded a certain coldness.
Luxurious red and sunnier colors certainly tend to change the way we perceive the images presented.
Photo: marketingvinhos.com
In addition to everything listed so far, the best way to demonstrate steam, either from a smoking glass or as an added effect is when shooting in the dark.
Trends in product photography currently focus on playful, bright and solid colors.
Photo: packageinspiration.com
Be creative, have fun and experiment with the tricks in product photography. Everything is achievable, so find the spark that will ignite your creative imagination.