The key element of product photography is the use of natural light. Product photos look great in natural light, but it is also crucial to know which time of the day is best to use natural light, along with several other factors. When people ask me how do you take pictures of products in natural light, I tell them that they have to wait for the right time to get the perfect shot.
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Natural light product photography cannot be explained in a few words, which is why I would like to share a detailed guide on how to take product photos using natural light. I will also discuss the importance of natural light in product photography, the benefits of using natural light over artificial light, and provide tips and techniques for taking pictures of products in natural light.
The purpose of this discussion is to help businesses and photographers understand the importance of natural light in product photography and how to use it effectively.
Understanding Natural Light
When taking pictures of products in natural light, it’s important to understand the different types of natural light and how they can affect the final image. Here are the most common natural lights that you will witness throughout the day.
Diffused Light
This type of light is scattered and spread out, creating a soft and even light on the subject. This is often considered the best type of light for product photography, as it eliminates harsh shadows and highlights.
Direct Light
Direct light is a more intense light source, such as sunlight or a spotlight. This type of light can create strong shadows and highlights, which can be used to create contrast and depth in the image.
Backlight
Backlight is when the light source is behind the subject, creating a halo effect around the edges of the product. This type of light can be used to create a dramatic and striking image, but it can also be difficult to control and may require additional lighting equipment.
Step-by-Step Process – How To Take Natural Light Product Photos
To get the best product photos in natural light, here are the most useful instructions that can make your work easier.
Select Suitable Equipment and Setting
Taking pictures of products in natural light can be a tricky task, but with the right equipment and setting, it can result in beautiful and professional-looking photographs. A camera with a high resolution and a good lens will help you capture all the details of the product. A DSLR camera, for example, with a wide aperture lens, is a good option for this type of photography.
A wide-aperture lens will help you achieve a shallow depth of field, which is perfect for isolating the product from the background. Moreover, a lens with image stabilization is also important, as it will help you avoid blur from camera shake. If you’re shooting in a location where a tripod isn’t practical, a stabilizing device, like a stabilizing grip, can be used to steady your camera.
Choose A Suitable Background Or Use Props
Choosing a simple and uncluttered background can help to draw attention to the product. A neutral-colored background like white or gray works well for most products, in my case when I am taking photos in natural light. If you don’t like this idea, then you can use props to add interest to your shots, such as flowers or other natural elements.
Light Modifiers and Reflectors For Added Support
Taking pictures of products in natural light can be a challenging task, but with the right equipment and setting, it can be achieved. Light modifiers like diffusers or softboxes can help to soften harsh light and create a more even light. Reflectors can also be used to reflect light onto the product, helping to add depth and dimension to your shots.
Bracketing For Exposure
The next step that you have to follow for taking pictures of products in natural light is bracketing for exposure. This is when you take multiple shots of the same scene with different exposure settings. For example, you might take one shot at a normal exposure, one shot underexposed, and one shot overexposed. This allows you to choose the best exposure for the final image.
It is suitable when you have to choose between reflection or shadows if you are taking photos in natural light. Reflections can cause glare on the product, making it difficult to see the details. Shadows can also make the product look flat and uninteresting. To avoid these problems, try to position the product in a way that minimizes reflections and shadows. You can also use a reflector or diffuser to control the light.
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Start Taking Multiple Shots From Different Angles
When you are all set, you can take multiple shots from various angles. Taking multiple shots from different angles allows you to see the product from different perspectives and choose the best angle for the final image. Natural light will enhance the colors, texture, and overall appearance of the product.
By following some simple tips, such as using a tripod, adjusting the aperture, and positioning the product in the right location, you can achieve great results. It is also important to experiment with different techniques and equipment to find what works best for your specific product and style.
Editing And Post-Production
After you are done taking different product photos, you can edit them at the end. There are a few basic techniques that can be used to enhance the overall look of the image. Cropping is a great way to remove any unwanted elements from the photo and to focus on the product itself. While altering the brightness and contrast can help the object stand out more, resizing can be utilized to change the photo’s overall proportions.
Any undesirable elements can also be taken out of the picture. Removing unwanted elements can be done using a variety of tools, such as the clone stamp, healing brush, or spot healing brush.