10 Great Tips On How To Master Still Life & Location Product Photography

Still life and product lifestyle photography on location offers a unique and dynamic opportunity to capture captivating images in real-life settings. Mastering this genre requires a combination of technical skills, creativity, and adaptability. In this blog post, we will share some great tips to help you excel in still life and product lifestyle photography when working away from the comforts of the studio.

Let's dive in and discover how to create compelling images that tell stories and evoke emotions.

1. Plan and Scout the Location:

Before heading out to shoot, thoroughly research and scout the location, ideal multiple locations to give you and the client options to choose from. You will want to visit the location and think about how the location will work with the narrative and the shots you plan to create. Understand the lighting conditions, available props, and potential backdrops is also important, if you're lucky enough to have a great team then you will be able to discuss options and ideas with the art director and stylist. Preparation will help you visualise the final images and plan your compositions accordingly.

2. Consider the Natural Light:

It’s great to be able to Utilize natural light as much as possible. It adds a soft and organic feel to your images. Take note of how the light changes throughout the day and plan your shots accordingly to capture the best possible lighting conditions. In some cases you will also need to use artificial light so consider how and where these will be placed in order to correctly balance with any natural available light.

3. Bring Essential Gear:

Your stylist and production team will have props products and styling items prepared so as the photographer your main objective will be to Pack your location kit. If your like me you will prefer to have more than what you need  Cameras including backups, Lenses, tripod, reflectors, and any other necessary equipment. Consider portable lighting options such as  portable strobes if additional lighting is needed.

4. Consider props:

It’s good rule to keep your composition clean and uncluttered and by removing any distracting elements that do not contribute to the story will help convey and improve the overall shot. Focus on the main subject while considering the surrounding environment. Slow down and take you time to consider each prop and item in the scene. Only use props that enhance the narrative and complement the main subject. Props can add depth, context, and visual interest to your images. Experiment with different arrangements and compositions to find the most appealing setup.

5. Embrace the Environment:

Capture the essence of the location by incorporating elements of the surroundings into your compositions. This helps create a sense of place and adds authenticity to your images. After all you have chosen the location for a reason so make sure you maximise your surroundings

6. Pay Attention to Details:

In still life and lifestyle photography, details matter. Be mindful of small elements like textures, patterns, and colours. They can elevate the overall aesthetics of your images and create a visual impact. If you have a team of art directors and or stylist then some of this will be conisdered already however its important to discuss and collaborate with your team to really focus on the important elements of the shoot.

7. Experiment with Angles and Perspectives:

Don't limit yourself to shooting from eye level. Explore different angles and perspectives to add variety and visual interest to your images. Consider shooting from above, below, or from unique vantage points to capture intriguing compositions. You will have plan in mind but don’t be afraid to capture candid moments and adapt as you see new ideas. When shooting models in lifestyle settings, candid moments often tell the most authentic and compelling stories. Encourage your subjects to engage in natural activities or emotions, capturing genuine expressions and gestures.

8. Create a Story:

Tell a narrative through your images. Sometimes the product or setup might not tell much of a story so use you location models and props. Consider the emotions, interactions, and relationships within the scene. A well-constructed story engages viewers and keeps them connected to your photographs.

9. Post-Processing Enhancements:

Use post-processing techniques to refine your images. Adjust colors, contrast, and exposure to enhance the mood and bring out the desired elements. However, remember to maintain a natural look and avoid over-processing.

10. Be Flexible and Adapt:

Photographing on location can present unexpected challenges. Stay flexible and adapt to changing conditions. Embrace unexpected opportunities and let them guide your creativity. Flexibility and adaptability are key to achieving outstanding results.

Conclusion:

Mastering still life and product focused lifestyle photography on location requires a blend of technical expertise, creativity, and adaptability. By planning ahead, utilizing natural light, incorporating props thoughtfully, and focusing on storytelling, you can create captivating and emotive images that leave a lasting impression. Embrace the process, experiment with different techniques, and allow your unique perspective to shine through. Happy shooting!

All photography featured in this blog is taken on location for wellness brand Scholl with production from WeAreFreak including an amazing team of stylists, assistants and full production. Thanks to everyone who helped make this a great shoot. You can see more image from a number of my galleries, just follow the links Still Life Cosmetics Jewellery Food & drink or get in contact to disucss you next shoot