GATHER INSPIRATION
Inspiration can come from many sources, so keep your eyes peeled for things that capture your attention, and ask yourself why they were so effective.
Was it because the propping was minimalistic so it left a clear impression? Or perhaps the colours used were bright and vivid so it stood out from the crowd? What kind of imagery are your competitors using?
Start pulling together some images that speak to you, align with your brand identity and are similar to what you'd like to achieve in your photoshoot (obviously we won't copy another artist's work) and we can go from there.
We recommend creating a Pinterest board to gather your product photography ideas in one place.
CREATE A SHOT LIST
This can be as simple or as in-depth as you like, but it's very useful to have so that we can create all the assets you need.
Think about where the images will be used and what for. Do you need a photograph for a business card? Do you need your best-seller photographed to use as a banner on your website? Need fresh product photos made for social media? Or customized for an external selling site like Etsy?
How many images per product do you require? Do you know the sizes of each image? Are they single product shots, group product shots, flat lays or GIFs?
Of course, if you aren't sure you can always discuss with our team who will guide you to the best results.
BACKGROUNDS
While they aren't the star of the show, backgrounds can really make or break a shot.
You could try incorporating your brand's signature colours into the background, go for a monochromatic look to match the product or go for something more bold and clashing.
You could also try giving texture a go. For example, if your product is a baking utensil, having some kitchen tiles or a marble countertop as the background might work well.
If you already have a particular colour or texture in mind let us know, otherwise we can come up with some ideas together.
GATHER PROPS
Choosing the right props for your photographs can be tricky, but they help to communicate about your brand and tell a story about your product.
Consider including ingredients found in your product, tools that you use to make your product, or props that simply inject a pop of colour.
The more props we have to choose from during your photoshoot, the better. We don't have to use them all, but having a selection is always good.
Let us know if there's something you'd like to include and we can try and source it or if you'd prefer to send us a prop yourself that's fine too.
YOUR PRODUCTS
It might seem obvious, but make sure you have all your products ready.
Make sure your products are in tip-top condition so that during the shoot, we can get the best results. This means sending product with the most up-to-date labels and packaging, as well as sending products wrapped with plenty of bubble wrap so that they aren't crumpled or damaged in-transit.
If you are sending something perishable, make sure that you send it with the longest "use-by" or "best-before" date available. Send packaged with an ice pack or two so it stays fresh during transport.
Also consider the types of imagery you need. Do you need to show both sides of an invite? Make sure you send at least two copies! Want a group shot where a product is repeated? Remember to send as many of that product as possible... You get the point!
Using your shot list, make sure you've got all the products you want photographed packaged appropriately and ready to go.
IN A NUTSHELL
It's important to get the most from your product photo shoot, so the more planning you do the better.
If you're stuck for ideas or unsure of where to find the right props, look online for inspiration or ask your photographer who can offer some advice.
If you've got more questions, please feel free to send us an email.
If you've got more questions, please feel free to send us an email.