Mastering the Art of Natural Lighting in Product Photography
Welcome to our cozy corner of product photography, where we share insights that make your eCommerce shine both simply and effectively.
Today, we're focusing on a fundamental aspect that every business owner should be aware of when taking product photos: natural lighting.
The difference it can make to your product photos is like day and night- literally.
Understanding Natural Light
Think of light as the silent salesperson in each of your product images. In a busy online marketplace, it can help your product stand out. Now, you don't need to be a pro to understand the appeal of natural light; it's soft, flattering, and quite forgiving.
It can bring out the best in your products, highlighting details, textures, and colors.
However, working with natural light is all about timing.
You’ll want to catch what photographers call the 'golden hour'—that time just after dawn or just before sunset when the light is golden and gentle.
This is the prime time for capturing your products in a way that makes them look inviting and vibrant.
Setting the Scene
Before you start snapping photos, there's a bit of prep work that'll go a long way. First, make sure your products are clean and free from blemishes. A little dust or a smudge can catch the light oddly and distract from your product’s features. If you're shooting indoors, position your product near a large window where natural light pours in. And remember, a simple background helps keep the focus where it should be—on your product.
Tackling Overcast Days
But what about those grey, overcast days? No sunshine doesn't mean no photoshoot. On the contrary, overcast light can be soft and diffused—like a natural softbox that smoothens harsh shadows. It’s perfect for products that need an even, gentle light. Remember that natural light can help when on a budget, but artificial studio lights work 24/7 and can reduce setup time, while providing consistent results.
What to Avoid
Now, a quick word on what to avoid: direct sunlight. It may seem counterintuitive, but too much sun can cast harsh shadows and create overpowering highlights.
It’s all about balance.
If you’re shooting when the sun is high, seek shade—a spot where the light is bright yet indirect.
Embracing the power of natural light can transform your DIY product photography efforts. Give it a try, and you just might surprise yourself with the professional-looking results. If you're not sure where to start, don't fret—sometimes, a bit of trial and error is all it takes to learn the ropes.
For more tidbits on mastering product photography, feel free to sneak a peek at our Instagram for visual inspiration.
We love showing the difference good lighting can make!
Remember, if you're ready to take your product photos to the next level and ditch the DIY effort, check out our online photography packages tailored for small businesses like yours.
