Beginners Guide To Lifestyle Product Photography
If you're looking to elevate your product photography game, you're in the right place. Lifestyle shoots are a powerful way to showcase items in real world settings, making them more relatable and appealing to audiences. In this beginner's guide, we'll break down everything you need to know to get started with product lifestyle photography. Let's dive in!
What is Lifestyle Photography?
Lifestyle photography is a style of photography where products are showcased in real-life settings or situations that reflect a particular lifestyle. Instead of just focusing on the product itself against a plain white background, lifestyle photography aims to create a story or narrative around the product by placing it in context within a relatable scene.
In lifestyle product photography:
People are often using or interacting with the product.
Settings may include everyday environments like homes, cafes, outdoor spaces, etc.
The goal is to evoke emotions or aspirations related to the lifestyle associated with the product.
Lighting and composition are used to create a natural and appealing look (not too staged!).
Essential Equipment
Here is a list of our favorite pieces of equipment that we bring to every lifestyle shoot:
Choosing the Right Lighting Setup
The tone of your lighting should blend seamlessly with your environment. In the picture featured here, we used warm artificial lighting to match the colors already present in the bathroom.
If you are unable to change the color of your light source, adjust your camera’s white balance to create the same warm effect.
If you don’t have access to studio lights, try using natural lighting. This method works best near large windows!
Composition and Framing
To capture dynamic and engaging images, explore multiple angles and perspectives. Instead of shooting straight on, try shooting from above, below, or from the side. Great photos focus on leaving enough negative space to avoid clutter and draw attention to the product.
You can enable the grid overlay on your iPhone or digital camera to help guide you on where items in your scene should be styled. Read below to see how to activate grid lines on an iPhone and professional camera.
How to activate Grid lines (rule of thirds) on your iPhone:
Go to Settings ->
Locate “Camera” ->
Under composition, select Enable grid
How to activate Grid lines (rule of thirds) on the Sony A7III:
Open your camera menu ->
Go to the second camera tab ->
Click over to page 6/9 ->
Under “Grid Line,” select “Rule of 3rds Grid)
Working with Props
Props can enhance the narrative of your photo. Choose items that complement the story you're telling.
You can also enhance your scene with organic environmental touches such as a bathroom sink or vanity mirror. Remember to always keep the balance by not overwhelming the frame.
Posing and Directing Models
If your lifestyle shoot involves models, provide clear direction, focusing on natural expressions and movements. Make them comfortable and guide them to interact with the product authentically. Be mindful of clunky hand positioning and unflattering shadows they may cast in the scene.
Free Workshop
Lean how to create light, style, and editing high-end images!
Camera Settings and Shooting Modes
Shoot in manual mode to have full control over settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Utilize a wide aperture (low f-stop) to create a pleasing background blur and make your product stand out.
FAQs
What camera equipment do I need for lifestyle photography?
A camera (DSLR or mirrorless), portrait lenses, tripod, and optional lighting equipment.
Do I need models for lifestyle photography?
Not necessarily. You can also focus on photographing products in real-life settings.
Is this type of photography good for an e-commerce website?
Yes, lifestyle photography is great for e-commerce websites as it creates a connection with customers.
Can I use a smartphone for lifestyle images?
Yes! A professional camera is always preferred but you can still achieve great results with an IPhone.
Where can I learn more about advanced techniques?
Check out these online courses to improve and refine your skills!
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