Perfecting Your Product Photography

Perfecting Your Product Photography

volume 4
Meylah’s eBook Series for Artisans
Click Here to Subscribe

eBooks

subscribe to this

Table of Contents free eBook series

Perfecting Your What I've Learned From
Product Photography Taking Thousands of
Introduction Product Shots
Chapter 5
Photographing Your
Products: Choose Your
Style and Stick With It
Chapter 1
Using Your Camera
Chapter 2
Change the Way You
See Your Work
Chapter 3
Small Object Photography
Chapter 4

share this post this
on facebook on twitter

eBooks 2

Perfecting Your subscribe to this
Product Photography free eBook series

Introduction by Courtney Dirks
>

art, but mastering the camera to feature those pieces in
their best light is another challenge altogether! Product
photography is an art in and of itself. And if you are
unable to hire a professional photographer to shoot your
work or if you prefer to keep the creative process in house
from start to finish, then we want to arm you with the right
information to make your personal product photography
shoots successful from the get-go!
In this eBook, we will cover topics ranging from lessons
learned from taking thousands of product shots to
becoming more familiar with your camera. If you’ve
created fabulous products and are ready to take the
plunge into product photography, the insights in this
eBook will set you on the right path to capturing
remarkable images of your work!

Photo credit: Annafur

You may have mastered the art of using a torch,
paintbrush, kiln or other tools to create fabulous works of


eBooks 3

Share this eBook!
>

If you enjoy this eBook, please You Can:
consider sending it to your – Download This eBook
friends and network! – Share This eBook by Email
– Post or Embed This eBook on Your Blog
– Post to Twitter
– Share on Facebook

Meylah provides you with your own
ecommerce website and powerful
tools so you can sell your products
anytime, anyplace...easily.

Pssssst! Go to next page for more content! >

eBooks Pssssst! Go to next page for more content!
4
>

Photographing Your Products: subscribe to this
Choose Your Style & Stick With It free eBook series

Chapter 1 by Courtney Dirks
>

get so wrapped up in taking the perfect product shot that
it winds up pulling them away from where they should
really be focusing, which is on creating the products that
brought them into this industry in the first place.
There is beauty in simplicity when it comes to mastering
product shots. Here are a few valuable, simple tips that
will improve your product photography:

Focus on your Product
If you’re exerting all your energy trying to find the
perfect props, you may want to take a step back to
really evaluate what those props are doing to improve
the quality of your image. If the purpose of the prop(s)
is to display the product in its’ best light or if it serves
a purpose (such as holding your items in place) then
it’s worthwhile. On the other hand, if your props are
a distraction, remove them from your photo. Your
Photo credit: AForestFrolic
concentration should be focused on making your items
unique rather than their surroundings!
Tackling product photography, especially as a beginner
can be an incredibly daunting task. Oftentimes artisans


eBooks 5

Photographing Your Products: subscribe to this
Choose Your Style & Stick With It free eBook series

>

Be Consistent Related Resources
Try to create a theme for your product shots through
– Using Flickr To Share Your Work
consistent backgrounds and props. This doesn’t mean
you have to be boring! Again, as I mentioned above, – Online Printing Solutions: More Perks than
the key is to avoid distractions and by using the same Price and Quality
backgrounds and props, you’ll create a cohesive look – Best Face Forward: How to Get a Great Profile Shot
when featuring multiple product images alongside
each another.

Start Slow and Build From There
Don’t try to make every aspect of your pictures perfect
from the get-go. When I started taking product shots,
my biggest struggle was managing the lighting in
my shots. Once I figured out how to capture good
lighting for my products, I moved on to the props and
backgrounds I wanted to use, and so forth. Becoming
a good photographer doesn’t happen overnight, but if
you're patient, you’ll develop the necessary skills to get
great shots, and before you know it, other people will
be asking you for photography advice!


eBooks 6

Using Your subscribe to this
Camera free eBook series

Chapter 2 by Marlo Miyashiro
>

photos and limit the need for a lot of editing with photo
software. During your practice photography sessions,
you’ll want to be sure to take notes so you’ll learn what
works best for your camera and lighting environment.

Auto Focusing
Using your camera’s auto focus is important for a clear
image. Most point-and-shoot cameras focus in on the
center of the frame when the shutter button is pressed
down halfway. Use this to your advantage and point the
middle of the frame to your focal point first, focus on it
and while holding the button, swivel your camera up to
create image to create the proper composition (using
the rule of thirds) then take the shot. In macro mode,
this will enhance the depth of field by making the closest
focal point in focus and the background slightly blurry.

Auto Focusing Tips:
Today, let’s focus on some of the technical aspects of • Compose your shot first and then move the focal
photography. Experimenting with the following settings point to center of the frame to in on it before you
in your camera will give you more control over your focus on it.


eBooks 7


>

• When you have the focal point in focus, swivel your WB Tips:
camera up into the right composition. • Point the camera at something that is pure white –
like a sheet of printer paper.
• Keep your camera lens on the same focal plane before
you shoot (in other words, moving parallel to your • If this still doesn’t give you the best colors, you can try
work is acceptable – moving closer or farther away adjusting the WB using an 18% gray card (available at
from your work will ruin the sharpness of the image camera supply shops).
and make it necessary to refocus your photo).
• Hold the paper at the same distance from the lens
White Balance (WB) as your objects will be for the best results.
This is indicated on your manual mode screen with an
Exposure Value Compensation (EV +/-):
icon that looks like two triangles with a circle between
This will instantly brighten or darken your photos within
them. Refer to your camera’s manual to learn how to
your camera and could further minimize the need for
adjust the WB – each camera is different.
photo editing later. Refer to your user’s manual learn
When you adjust the WB, you are essentially telling how to use the in-camera EV adjustment.
your camera, “This is what white looks like” within the
lighting environment you are shooting in. This eliminates EV Tips:
the need for expensive daylight balanced light bulbs • Some cameras have a built in EV +/- “bracketing”
or using the camera’s guessing system (auto white system which allows the camera to take three
balance) that can easily be thrown off by anything from (or more) shots in a row. One set at a +1, one
an overhead light to the color of your clothing. in the neutral position and one at the -1 setting.


eBooks 8


>

• Take notes when you are taking these photos so you The more you know about how your camera operates
know what looks best when you are reviewing the better your photos will be and then one day you’ll
your shots. find yourself actually looking forward to taking more
photos of your work!
• Your camera’s LCD screen isn’t the most reliable
gauge of brightness, so take lots of different photos
Related Resources
and then look at them on your computer.
– Four Favorite Point and Shoot Cameras
The #1 Most Important Thing
To Remember – How to Get Started on Flickr: Registering!
Never, ever use your camera’s flash to take photos – Flickr Groups: Crafting, Blogging, Promoting
of small objects! Even with tissues covering the flash,
the light emitted by your camera’s flash is too harsh
to evenly light small objects. Instead, make sure you
have plenty of ambient light and keep adjusting your
lighting set up until you can consistently take photos
without that little “shaking hand” showing itself on your
camera’s screen.
Of courses, all of this is just the tip of the proverbial
iceberg when it comes to small object photography.
I encourage you to keep learning and experimenting
with your work, composition and camera settings.


eBooks 9

Free Ecommerce
Website & Personal Coaching.
Get step by step instructions so you can sell your
products and manage your business...easily.


Change The Way subscribe to this
You See Your Work free eBook series

>

Have you ever really looked at a great photo? Not just
the featured object, but the way things are placed
within the frame? The ones that really catch our eye
generally have certain things in common:
• The background doesn't compete with the item(s)
• Objects are placed at an angle or off-center, not in the
center of the frame
• The main focal point is close to one of the corners of
the photo
• The object(s) fill the frame
While there are definitely exceptions to these rules, one
of the easiest ways to create interest in your photos is
to simply place your object(s) at an angle or just off of
center. By doing this you create visual “movement” and
depth within the frame which allows the viewer’s eye
to focus on the main subject after following an easy,
To continue the improvement of your small object
natural pattern around the image.
photographs, let’s talk about taking a completely
different approach to the composition of your photos.


eBooks 11


>

Why does this work? Let’s look at the “Rule of Thirds”. You can also give these ideas a try:
In the visual arts, the “Rule of Thirds” states:
• Place your piece at a diagonal with an intersecting
“An image should be imagined as divided into nine horizontal background line. This creates visual
equal parts by two equally-spaced horizontal lines and movement and more points of interest within the image.
two equally-spaced vertical lines, and that important
• Focus sharply on the main part of the object and
compositional elements should be placed along these lines
allow the depth of field to blur the outer edges. Using
or their intersections. Proponents of the technique claim
depth of field to your advantage, you can further
that aligning a subject with these points creates more
enhance your photo and draw your customer’s
tension, energy and interest in the composition than simply
attention to the main focal point of your piece
centering the subject would.” (Source: Wiki Rule of Thirds)
• If you're photographing jewelry, in particular, necklaces,
In the photo above, you’ll see 3 lines x 3 lines layered
swirl your necklace chains in an “S” pattern away from
over the top of the photo, stretched to the ends of
the lens at an angle – curving lines are very pleasing to
the photo. The pendant is placed in the lower right
the eye. Think of how wind and water are depicted in
intersection of the grid. This creates a visual energy that
a painting – these are the types of curves you want to
is much more interesting to the eye than simply placing
emulate. Use of depth of field is good to try here too.
the pendant in the lower center of the frame.
• If you are used to placing your piece in the very
The next time you are taking your photos, imagine this
center, try to see if you can angle the object or move
grid (some cameras actually have a setting that will
your camera a little to one side. It’s amazing how a
place the grid on the screen) while you are composing
tiny change can make all the difference between a
you photos and see what happens.
stagnant photo and a dynamic one!


eBooks 12


>

The main point here is to experiment with your
composition. Be daring. Take photos that are *too* close
and take photos at *extreme* angles. Then compare
the visual interest in those shots to your standard
photos. You might be surprised to find that what you
once thought was “over the top” is actually the more
interesting composition for your work!

Related Resources
– The Anatomy of A Great Product Shot
– Let's Picnik: Photo Editing Made Easy!
– How To Edit Your Photos using Picnik


eBooks 13

Small Object subscribe to this
Photography free eBook series

>

shop. You’ve read the tutorials, turned off the flash, set
up near a window, purchased a fancy light-tent pop-up
contraption and perhaps even upgraded your camera
and still, your results have been less than spectacular.

What more do you need to do to take an
amazing photo?
The difference between a good photo and a great
photo, particularly with small objects, can be subtle.
Composition, lighting and clarity all work together to
create a visually appealing photo that gets the viewer
up close and personal with the item – giving them a
chance to emotionally connect, click and ultimately
purchase it!

If you’re like most people with online storefronts, taking
better great photos of your small objects is number one
on the list of things you need to do to improve your


eBooks 14


>

To achieve this kind of “visually tactile” imagery, it is • Learn how to use your camera’s manual settings to
necessary to approach your photography from your manipulate your photos.
customer’s point of view. For instance, they might wonder:
• Play with the depth of field (sharp focus in front, soft
focus toward the back) to create visual movement
• What is the piece made out of?
within the frame.
• How big is it?
• Be daring and let part of the piece fall off the edge of
• How heavy is it? the photo.
• How wide is it? • Take super close up (or crop your photos) to highlight
the texture of the piece.
• What does it feel like?
Having trouble visually conveying the size of your piece?
Now you might be thinking, “How in the world do I show
Use one of your shots to:
my customer what it *feels* like or how *heavy* it is if
it’s just a photograph?”
• Take a photo of the piece in or on your
(or a friend’s) hand
This is where you start using that creative brain of yours!
Yes, the same one that created that fantastic item you • Place it next to an everyday (internationally
are photographing – and start playing: recognized) object like a drinking glass, pencil,
leaf, stapler, a pile of thumbtacks, a lemon…you
• Try taking photos at lots of different angles. get the point.
• Go extreme – get down to eye level with your work.


eBooks 15


>

• Important: Be sure the object you are using for
comparison falls off the photo’s edge so it doesn’t
compete with your item!
The photographs we take are much more than a record
of what we make. They are quite literally the gateway
to a better understanding of you, your work and your
business. Let’s make the most of them, shall we?

Related Resources
– How to Display and Present Your Products Effectively
– How To Use A Lightbox For Your Product Shots
– How to Create An Ad for Your Business


eBooks 16

What I've Learned from Taking subscribe to this
Thousands of Product Shots free eBook series

>

me transition from completely dreading taking photos of
my products to enjoying every second of it and now, I’m
grateful for the opportunity to share the most valuable
lessons I’ve learned with you:
1. Take several shots of your product, but don’t get so
caught up in capturing the ABSOLUTE perfect shot
that your products never make it online. To give you
a gauge, I take roughly 15-20 shots per product and
narrow the final selection down to 3-5 of the best shots.
2. Identify the gear you want to use – I started out with a
Canon Powershot Digital Elph, which is a simple point
and shoot camera that I loved, but it broke so I had to
move on. Now I’ve graduated to shooting with a Canon
EOS Digital Rebel and I’ve really benefited from the perks
of using an SLR (Single-Lens Reflex) camera. I alternate
back and forth from using the lens that came with the
camera and a separate macro lens that I purchased.
After taking thousands upon thousands of product shots
in preparation for my online store launch, I’ve learned
countless valuable lessons. These lessons have helped


eBooks 18


>

3. Create consistency with your product shots – At first covering your windows with a white sheet) and (2)
I was just focused on capturing great shots, using all avoid direct sunlight.
kinds of props, backgrounds, etc. trying to make them
6. Don’t use a flash – No matter what time of day you’ve
look fun and artsy. What I realized is that although
selected to shoot, turn off your flash! It will create
the images looked great individually, they lacked
nasty glare.
cohesion as a group. Now I aim to take a few pictures
against a flat background so people can really see 7. Look around – try to find inspiration in the things
the workmanship without distractions, then I take 1-2 you are drawn to, such as the magazines you like,
more creative shots using a fun background or a prop. the blogs you read, or the handmade shops you are
interested in. What about their presentation draws
4. Find a system that works for you – I’ve read many
you in? Can you incorporate some of those ideas into
articles on how to take great product shots, but
your photography?
it’s difficult (and sometimes even contradictory) to
implement everyone’s strategies and advice. Take the 8. Find the right props & background supplies – I’ve
tips that really resonate with you and put those to use, tried all sorts of props and I’ve finally settled on
if other tips don’t strike you, move on! a few that actually aid me in photographing my
images (for example, a metal jewelry display tree
5. Decide if you prefer shooting in the Night or Day –
for photographing jewelry to show how it hangs).
From all the articles I poured through, I found that
For backgrounds, I focus on using items (such as
many people prefer to shoot during the day. If you
scrapbook paper or tiles) that can easily be used
are shooting during the day, the two greatest lessons
behind or underneath products to create a clean
I’ve learned are to (1) diffuse the light to prevent glare
and consistent look.
(a great way to do so if you’re shooting inside is by


eBooks 19


>

9. Find a great photo editing system – there are a Related Resources
number of great (and even free) photo editing tools
– Creating the Perfect Photo Setup For Your
available on the market that will help you clean up
Product Photography
(edit) and tag your images. Find the one that works
best for you. – Creative Commons: The What, Why and How
10. Finally & most importantly, don’t get discouraged – Great Places for Continuing Education in Your Craft
– I’ve dedicated hours upon hours and days upon
days trying to figure out how to get my product
photography just right and at times, I felt very
discouraged, yet I stuck with it and I’m glad I did. If
you feel like pulling your hair out, it always helps to
walk away for a bit and come back once you’ve had a
chance to recharge.


eBooks 20

subscribe to this
free eBook series

>

Contributors Marlo Miyashiro, (a.k.a. Stay Tuned…
Courtney Dirks, a recent escapee IMakeCuteStuff) has been in the We hope this eBook has helped
of the corporate world with a retail and wholesale handmade alleviate some of the challenges
background in commercial real craft industries for more than 20 you’ve faced and eased your anxiety
estate, communications, and sales. years. She is a jeweler, crafter, about product photography. We are
She began alleviating her stress at teacher, arts business consultant devoted to provide the best solutions
work through creating handmade for emerging artists and current for individuals to learn, share and
jewelry for Courtney Rian Designs. organizer of etsyRAIN, an active support each other’s business growth
After bouncing around the west coast community of over 1000 artists online and we wish you the best of
for years, she settled in Seattle and who reside in western Washington. luck in your quest for online selling
has found great joy traveling, playing Check out Marlo's new photography success. Stay tuned for future eBooks
sports and interacting with the local blog at SmallObjectPhotography from Meylah!
creative community. and learn more about her classes
and consulting services at
CreativeArtsConsulting.

eBooks 21

subscribe to this
free eBook series

>

Benefits of Meylah Our Values
1. Build your brand and share the • Be Committed to Helping Each
story of their work through a Other
personalized blog
• Live and Breathe Creativity
2. Sell your products and services
• Smile and Have Fun
with a customized storefront
• Show Passion in All That You Do
3. Connect and build their community
and customer base through • Give Before You Take
integrated social media channels
• Together We Create a Great
4. Share or sell your knowledge with Experience
Photo credit: Kalyan Kanuri
an online tutorial creation tool
• Foster Dynamic Learning
called Byte-Syze Learning
About Meylah • Be Humble and Honest
Meylah provides artisans with 5. Effectively manage your business
their own ecommerce website and all-in-one-place with innovative • Do More with Less
powerful tools so they can sell their administration tools
• Embrace Change
products anytime, anyplace...easily.

eBooks 22

subscribe to this
free eBook series

>

License Warning and Disclaimer
This work is licensed under the Every effort has been made to
Creative Commons Attribution Non- make this book as complete and as
commercial No Derivative Works accurate as possible, but no warranty
3.0 United States License. To view of fitness is implied. The information
a copy of this license, visit http:// provided is on an “as is” basis. The
creativecommons.org/licenses/ authors shall have neither liability nor
byncnd/3.0/us/ or send a letter responsibility to any person or entity
to Creative Commons, 171 Second with respect to loss or damages
Street, Suite 300, San Francisco, arising from the information
California, 94105, USA contained in this eBook.

Trademarks
All terms mentioned in this book
that are known to be trademarks
or service marks have been
appropriately capitalized. Use of
a term in this book should not be
regarded as affecting the validity of
any trademark or service mark.

eBooks 23

Share this eBook!
>

If you enjoy this eBook, please You Can:
consider sending it to your – Download This eBook
friends and network! – Share This eBook by Email
– Post or Embed This eBook on Your Blog
– Post to Twitter
– Share on Facebook

eBooks 24

Perfecting Your Product Photography

Perfecting Your Product Photography

Recommended

More Related Content

Recently uploaded

Recently uploaded(20)

Featured

Featured(20)

Perfecting Your Product Photography