CHOOSING A SURFACE & STUDIO BACKGROUND FOR YOU PRODUCT


As products, contrary to human subjects, can vary so dramatically in terms of physical characteristics, the pros and cons of specific backgrounds and surfaces are very much case-specific. However, below are some general benefits of different background types.

Worth noting: whilst it is possible to have your product/s photographed on multiple backgrounds and surfaces, you should bear in mind that each such change in background (and with it in subsequent lighting) can effectively double the work of the photographer and consequently increase both the shoot time and of course the overall price of the service. To get the most out of your time and budget, I always recommend being as selective as possible and really considering what will work best with both your product/s and the potential uses you may have for the photographs.

PURE WHITE BACKGROUND

  • The most versatile background for the majority of uses, such as e-commerce catalogues.

  • The most well-adapted background for any post-production intentions you may have: if you intend to "extract" the product so that you have the option to superimpose it in another image, this is the best option

  • The most practical background to work with, making it ideal for on location studio work:

    • quick to set up and execute.

    • can work in any environment (meaning no special preparations are necessary in terms of room lighting

PURE BLACK BACKGROUNDS

  • The best background for reflective products as, combined with a reflective surface, incredible "mirroring" effects can be achieved.

  • The best background for colour, contrast and vibrance (unless your product itself is exceptionally dark)

GRADIENT BACKGROUNDS

  • The most versatile background for multiple products of varying colour and tone: regardless of whether the background is black or white, the gradient will work to create a contrast between a background and a product of similar tone, where otherwise the product would not have stood out from the background (essential if shooting white-on-white, black-on-black etc)

  • The most “true to life” studio background: by enhancing shadows around the product, gradient backgrounds can create the effect of a more "real" environment (as opposed to the generic nature of pure backgrounds).

MAT SURFACES 

  • Better if showing shadows is undesired (e.g. if you simply want to "cut out" the product itself). 

REFLECTIVE SURFACES 

  • Great for reflective products, especially when used with black backgrounds.

FINDING THE BEST BACKGROUND FOR YOUR GOODS

Whether you’re interest in one, or any combination of, the above approaches, or if you’ve alternative ideas for a product studio background, I’ll be very happy to advise you:

➤ GET ADVICE ON PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY

contact@brettwalshphotography.com
+33 (0) 6 52 28 23 45