5 TIPS FOR WORKING WITH A PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHER
Here are my 5 tips for working with a product photographer. When you run a small business you will end up doing lots and lots of roles. My business is online based so photography is important. I tend to take the photos of my range myself. I quite enjoy the process of sourcing props, styling my products and then editing the photos. But there comes a time when you need a little help and need to outsource photography to a professional.
I am not doing a rebrand but I am giving my photos a new look. To be honest I blame Farrow & Ball! I redecorated my bedroom in moody pinks and just love the look. My photos have previously been quite bright with flashes of colour, but I want to move to a more natural look. I am working with dried flowers, natural materials and of course pinks!
5 Tips for working with a product photographer
- Reach out to a photographer: Instagram is a fabulous way of finding photographers. Of course it would be as it’s a visual platform. Over the years on Instagram I have come across various photographers that work with small brands. Having followed when I first came across them, I had an idea of who I wanted to work with. A good photographer will be busy. Plan in advance and don’t be surprised if there is a waiting list or their slots are all booked for the next few months.
- Consider your look: Pinterest is a great tool to use here. I started a new board and started to pin all images, colour boards and styles that I like. If you are unsure how you want your images to be styled then this exercise will help you to home into what you like.
- Share you vision: So hopefully by step three you have a photographer in mind and have opened up a dialogue with them. Invite them to collaborate on your Pinterest board to see if they feel that they can achieve your desired aesthetic.
- Confirm the props and what products you want to be photographed: Again a new Pinterest board is a simple way to show the photographer the products that you want them to work with. As I sell jewellery storage I tend to need jewellery for props so we will discuss what jewellery will be used.
- Prepare your parcel: Include your products, any props you are providing and a cover letter. Detail in the letter exactly what is being sent, including photos can help and detail your return address.