Product Photography Ideas

Have you spent ages looking for interesting and unusual props for your product photography, only to find that the end result is not what you were hoping for? It is easy to spend hours on your product photography but to be disappointed with the final images because your props and backgrounds didn’t quite work. The first thing to remember is that pretty much anything can be used as a photo prop. Once you start looking about your home you will see that there are lots of possibilities, including fabrics, stationery, pictures and flowers. However, one really good option (especially for small products like jewellery) is books, and particularly vintage books.

Vintage Observer’s Books

Old Observer’s Books are a brilliant choice because they were published with covers that were printed in so many different colours, including bright reds, yellows and blues, as well as more muted greens, browns and neutrals. Many of them (such as Wild Flowers and Butterflies) also include beautiful illustrations that you could incorporate into your product photography too.

How can vintage books be used in product photography?

To be successful on online sales platforms such as Etsy and Folksy, your photographs need to be pin sharp and well styled. By using vintage books you can introduce colour and scale into your pictures. Both these elements will make your listings memorable for potential buyers.

Tips on creating beautiful product shots that will increase online sales

Choose the right background

An important part of any product photography shoot is your choice of background for your pictures. A wooden table can be an effective neutral textured background. Alternatively, you could choose linen or another fabric, or a painted board (or even a wallpaper sample).

Choose the right props

Choose a variety of props before you begin your shoot. Select some that compliment your product and introduce them one by one to your picture, taking time to see how each one looks as you add it to your shot. The main focus of each product photograph should be the product(s), but carefully chosen props can create real interest and brighten your pictures.

Strive for images that are crisp and clear

You don’t need an expensive camera to achieve sharp product photographs – your phone’s camera and a tripod will allow you to take clear pictures. However, you should make sure the natural light is good and avoid harsh artificial lights as well as extreme shadows. Natural daylight is always best, because it makes your pictures true representations of the colours and textures of your products (which will reduce any customer complaints when they receive their orders).

Find your own style

Take inspiration from other product photographs. Decide what props and backgrounds you like to use in your own photographs. If you have other images that inspire you, consider whether a similar composition or props could work for your own pictures.

If you would like to choose some colourful vintage Observer’s Books for your own product photography, please click HERE: