When it comes to product photography, it’s easy to assume you need an expensive camera, studio lighting and a perfectly styled backdrop. In reality, great images come down to light, composition and a clear sense of your brand, not the size of your kit.

In our recent Perfecting Your Photography webinar, our Visual Content Editor Brian Taylor shares what actually makes an image feel polished and publishable. Here are five practical takeaways.

1. Use the camera you already own

Yes, you can use your phone. Modern smartphones produce image files that are more than adequate for most editorial and online uses. The key is not the price of the device but how carefully you use it.

A few inexpensive additions can help:

●      A small tripod to prevent camera shake

●      A sheet of white card or foam board to bounce light

●      An optional clip on LED light for darker days

2. Set your phone up properly

Before you start shooting, check your settings. Make sure image size or resolution is set to high. Turn off the flash.

Flash tends to flatten texture and create harsh shadows. It rarely does handmade or textured products any favours.

Most importantly, avoid mixing light sources. Use either natural light or artificial light, not both together. Mixed lighting can create uneven colour and dull tones that are difficult to correct.

3. Master the close-up

Close ups are often where quality slips. Rather than moving physically closer, step back slightly and use 2x or 3x zoom. This helps reduce distortion and keeps proportions looking natural. If your phone has a macro setting, use it for fine details.

Always tap to focus on the product before taking the shot. Then review the image properly and zoom in to check sharpness. Even the most beautifully styled set up is let down by soft focus.

4. Be thoughtful with light

Light is everything. The simplest rule is to use one type of light at a time.

If working with natural light, position your product beside a window rather than directly in front of it. Overcast days often produce the most flattering, even light. Early morning and late afternoon can also work well. Harsh midday sun is usually best avoided. Outdoors, a cloudy day can create beautifully soft results.

To soften shadows indoors, use white card, tracing paper or even a plain shower curtain to diffuse the light. If you are using a clip on LED, bounce it or filter it rather than pointing it directly at the product. 

5. Keep styling and backdrops simple

A busy background distracts from the product. Opt for neutral, textured surfaces such as linen, cotton, plain painted boards, rustic wood or subtle brickwork. These provide interest without competing for attention.

Click here to watch the full webinar for more advice – including how AI tools can support your photography.