10 Things I Learned in 8 Years of Product Photography
If you love learning new things, then you’re in the right place. Today, I’m sharing 10 things I’ve learned in my eight years of doing product photography.
You need to love learning new things
The landscape of commercial photography is always changing. Trends fluctuate, and brands like to keep things fresh. This field keeps you on your toes, which is fun if you enjoy experimenting with photography styles, edits, and lighting. Embrace the constant evolution and enjoy the dynamic nature of the job.
Communicate Clearly with Clients
Getting on the same page with your client is half the battle. For example, sometimes when a client asks for a product shot "straight on," they actually mean a 45° angle. Especially if you’re working remotely, clear communication is vital. Use visuals wherever possible—whether it's rough, unedited shots or previous work examples. Miscommunications can happen easily, so ensure you mean the same thing even if you’re saying the same thing.
Pay Attention to Details
This work is extremely detail-oriented. As you continue, you’ll notice more things in post-production that you wish you'd fixed during the shoot. For instance, when working with models, be mindful of jewelry, tattoos, and tiny accessories that can leave marks. When shooting tabletop products, watch out for lint, hair, and minor imperfections. Tethering your camera to a screen can help you catch these issues in real-time.
Focus on the Product
In product photography, the product is always the subject, not the people. If you’re used to portrait photography, this might be a shift. Always remember that the product should be the star, not the model’s face.
Learn Focus Stacking
Focus stacking is an essential skill in product photography. At some point, you’ll encounter a shot that requires it. There are many ways to do it, so take some time to learn and practice different techniques until you find what works best for you. I made a video showing one way that I like to do it. Watch here.
Separate Yourself from Your Work
It’s not about you. This can be hard because we often associate our creations with our identity. But in a business setting, clients critique images based on their goals, not artistic value. Multiple people might have different takes on your image, and it’s crucial to not take feedback personally. It’s all about meeting the client's needs.
Master Different Lighting Techniques
Get comfortable with natural, flash, and constant lighting. Often, you won't have a say in the type of lighting used. You might be in a scenario where you have to shoot alongside a videographer, sharing the same set and models. Be adaptable, but don’t hesitate to voice your preferred lighting setup if it can significantly impact the result.
Make Time for Personal Projects
Personal photo projects are essential. I love what I do, but to keep that passion alive, I dedicate time to shoot just for myself at least once a month. I often do self-portraits as a personal challenge. It’s important to block out time to enjoy your craft and remember why you love it.
Educate Your Clients
Educate your clients about your services and set clear expectations. Discuss deliverables, re-shoots, editing, graphic design, props, backdrops, and budgets. This will vary based on your personal preferences and business model, so learn by doing and clearly document your policies.
Set Boundaries
Boundaries are crucial. Once you know what you’re comfortable with, communicate that to your clients to avoid misunderstandings. If you don’t set your own boundaries, others will set them for you.
I hope these insights help you, or at least give you a peek into running a product photography business. See you in the next post!
