Here are few things that simplify my set up when take photos of objects.  However,  these shots do focus on the product but visually they are not very inspiring.


Use natural light whenever possible.
Use both horizontal and vertical formats.
Don’t forget the details.

Use a tripod.
Edit you images and crop them in a way that enhances the subject.

Studio lighting,  when you taking photos of products or objects.  don't forget to consider proper defused lighting.  Soft light works the best.  hard shadows can be distracting.  Use a soft-box or a diffusion scrim or a white umbrella as a pass-thru screen.  A pass-thru screen will also work well in to soften direct sunlight.

Here is some product photography that is basic in terms of content but technically it is set up fairly well.  The photo incorporates a mirror and a classic lighting triangle.  However, the composition does need a little work.

Here is some product photography that does not work.  First the photo needs to emphasize the product.  Next the photo need to inspire you to buy the product.  And finally the photo needs to be visually appealing.

Composition is not a difficult thing to understand but many people just don't pay attention to what they see thru the lens.

Please help these photographers.

Product photography is almost upon us.  Usually product photography is static and boring. however if you think out side of the box you can take an ordinary object and embed it into a narrative.  The photography of Chris Mcveigh is exactly that.  His toy photography is clever and fun.  Take a look.

Here is how that last photograph was set up using less than $12 in materials.http://www.handmadespark.com/blog/studio-quality-product-photography-with-a-12-set-up-guest-post-from-via-u-photography-blog/

You don't need an expensive lighting set up to get a good lighting triangle.  Take a look at this inexpensive setup.  One key light, a aluminum foil background and foil reflector that serves a fill.

Coke and pepsi have been rival for years.  Many can remember the soda wars from the mid 80s.  This photograph revives the them using a clever photograph for am more aggressive ad campaign form 2000.

More fun toy photography.  The camera angle, use of color, and the overall composition make these photographs interesting to look at.

Things to think about when you are photographing a portrait.  Use a self-timer or a remote.  Use a dramatic camera angle.  Photograph people in the real world doing real things.  Be creative.  Try silhouettes and frame yourselves.

Many people cringe when they are asked to create a self portrait.  They think the image will be static and boring.  Try thinking outside of the box.  Change your perspective,  experiment with your location, and try a different crop.

Not all panaramic photos have to be shot parallel to the ground.  Try canting the camera.

Multiple exposures using only a digital camera can be difficult.  Recently I attempted to take photos with a triple exposure.  First I set up my studio with a black backdrop and I blocked out all light from coming in from beneath the door.  Next I set up my camera on a tripod and I set the camera to it's remote shutter mode.   After that I set my portable flashes to also fire by remote.  Then I blocked out my image area so that I would know what was actually in the shot.  Lastly,  I open my aperture all the way and I set my shutter speed to 30 seconds.

Finally,  I was ready to shoot.  During each shot I first fired the shutter and then the remote flash.  After each flash I then moved to a new position and then I fired the remote flash again.  In each photograph I used 3 separate exposures.  Check out this unedited shot.