Product photography is a major part of marketing and branding. Most global brands invest a lot in product photography. Small business owners are following suit by investing in affordable product photography options.
The options vary depending on your budget. You can set up a DIY studio or hire a professional product photographer. Whichever option you choose, your focus must be on displaying your products in the best light.
Flat lay photography has become increasingly popular on social media. It allows you to showcase your items in an engaging and visually compelling way.
What is Flat Lay Product Photography?
In flat lay product photography, the products are placed on a horizontal surface, for example a table, bench, or floor, and the photos are taken from above. As mentioned, it is quite popular on social media with many creators favoring it over other photography styles.
Flat lay photography is easy to execute, unlike ghost mannequin shots. This technique can be used for food, fashion, and product photography. Below are tips to elevate your flat lay fashion photography and keep people scrolling through your product page.
Setting the Stage
Sit back and think about the concept before you start clicking away. What story do you want to tell with your product photos? Are you after a sleek minimalist look, or do you want your product images to exhibit sophistication? Piece your ideas together on a mood board, as it will help you throughout the process, especially if you plan to hire a professional product photographer.
A background with white or light colors offers more versatility, allowing your product to take center stage. However, don't be afraid to get a little creative. For example, you can try using a backdrop with wooden accents for a more classic or rustic look.
Product Preparation
Sometimes, DIY photographers make the mistake of shooting clothes without preparation. This mistake is common among fashion brands selling thrift items. Take your time and clean the clothes and ensure that they are spotless. Also, remove any creases on the clothes. This will reduce the time needed to retouch when editing the final copy.
Professional product photographers often take time to clean and prep the product for the photo shoot. Also, wear gloves when handling your products. The goal is to avoid leaving fingerprints or stains on the products, especially if the products have a glossy finish.
Light Up Your Shoot
Proper lighting is the heart and soul of a good shoot, including product photography flat lay. Natural light, when the sun is rising or setting, is ideal. However, you can also use artificial lighting if you cannot get the timing right or shoot during the winter.
You can grab a pair of soft-boxes or use lamps. You must get the placement right when using lamps to illuminate the product. Shadows can help add more depth and life to your product images.
Editing and Final Touches
Editing and final touches can elevate the shots further, allowing you to correct any mistakes in the images. Be careful, and don't use too many filters on the photos. You still want your customers to see what the original products look like.