3 Types of Product Photography You Need to Master
Just like filmmakers need to vary the types of shots and sequences they create, product photographers also need to master different types of product photography in order to tailor the shoot to the item and the purpose of the images.
In this quick guide, we’ll highlight three primary types of product photography, what they’re used for, and we’ll also discuss one of the most valuable tools you need to make your product photography a success.
Let’s get started!
Flat-Lay Product Photography

A flat-lay product photo is just what it sounds like - the product is photographed on a flat surface (like a beautiful backdrop) from above.
This type of product image is often seen in online stores and is one of the most popular types of product photography because it gives potential buyers a clear view of the product.
When you’re shopping for clothing, for example, you might find a flat-lay image of a shirt that shows the front and another that shows the back (mixed in with various other types of product photography, too).
But as I noted earlier, while it might seem like a simple task to throw a product on a flat surface and take its picture, more finesse is needed.

To get the best results, you want to set the proper stage for the flat-lay image with a good backdrop.
I personally use Best Ever Backdrops for my backdrop needs because they are made in the USA, small and lightweight, and virtually indestructible.
Likewise, at 24x36 inches (or 46x36 inches for the oversized versions), these backdrops are ideally-sized for all types of product photography.

Of course, at less than two pounds and just â…›-inches thick, these backdrops aren’t big and bulky, which makes them easy to store and easy to retrieve when you need them.
Better yet, backdrops like this are two-sided, so you get double the functionality by having one texture on the front and another on the back that you can use for various types of product photography. With affordable pricing and free shipping to boot, these backdrops are the perfect way to get the best lay-flat images.

On top of that, Best Ever Backdrops now offers a new size - 24x24 inches (shown above) - which is ideal for photographers that are on the go.
Like their larger counterparts, these smaller backdrops are two-sided, lightweight, completely stain resistant, and 100 percent waterproof. Additionally, these smaller backdrops are just as durable, beautiful, and well-made as the larger offerings from Best Ever Backdrops.
As a side note, we’ll have a feature on these smaller backdrops in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for that!

Once you have a good backdrop in place, the next task is to design the product scene.
For example, you might have a color scheme that highlights the pops of colors in a pair of sneakers.
Alternatively, you might think purposefully about how to arrange multiple products so the scene looks natural, yet highlights each element equally. Styling is certainly important!
In some cases, the best result with flat-lay product photography is to include a model’s hands in the shot - this can create added visual appeal while helping you achieve a more candid look.
There are many more ideas for capturing the best flat-lay photos, but these will certainly get you started!
Editor’s Tip: Are you ready to dive into product photography? Get started on the right foot with the right backdrop! Use the promo code PTalk15 to get 15% off your order from their Backdrop Collection or Mix and Match Collection! Read More…