Common Mistakes in Product Photography and How to Avoid Them

Product photography isn’t only about showcasing a product from multiple angles; it’s a visionary approach that artfully highlights the item’s intricate details. With endless possibilities for creative shots, there are just as many chances to make errors. Since images drive leads and create impressions, even small mistakes can affect the overall impact.

Let’s explore how to avoid common product photography mistakes with a few simple tips.

Top 10 Common Mistakes Every Photographer Must Understand and Avoid

Improper Focus

A blurry or out-of-focus image is a big no when it comes to product illustration, as it directly indicates unprofessionalism and compromised quality. This can lead to customer frustration and reduced confidence in the product. For instance, when capturing for e-commerce clothing, unclear fabric details can result in a poor representation of the material’s quality which develops doubts regarding texture and comfort in buyers’ minds.

To avoid this issue, try using a tripod to eliminate camera shake, especially for macro shots or products with complex details. You can also switch to manual focus to control the focal point precisely, ensuring that the product’s key features, such as branding or texture, are sharp. If your camera has a focus peaking feature, use it to highlight the areas in focus, which will make it easier to fine-tune your shots.

Cluttered Backgrounds

No matter what, the product should always be the HERO in the frame. A busy or distracting background can take attention away from the main item, and suddenly, your product becomes unappealing for the viewers. 

Instead of arranging multiple pros or a colorful background, you can use a clean, neutral one that complements but doesn’t overpower the product. White or light gray backdrops are ideal for maintaining focus on the product. For lifestyle shots, carefully set up the scene to include elements that enhance the product’s appeal without stealing the spotlight. Consider using color theory to choose background colors that highlight the product.

When shooting tech gadgets, a cluttered desk can distract from the sleek design of the product. A minimalist background with a single color gradient can make the gadget stand out, emphasizing its modern aesthetic.

Ignoring Reflections

Reflective surfaces, such as glass, metal, or shiny packaging, can create unwanted reflections that distract from the product. These reflections can hide important details and create visual noise in the image.

To exemplify, when photographing a reflective watch face, even a small reflection can create a barrier in showing the dial’s details. In this case, you can use a light tent and position the lights carefully, to reduce glare and highlight the watch’s craftsmanship.

Moreover, polarizing filters can also minimize reflections and control glare. Lights can be positioned at specific angles to reduce direct reflections or diffused evenly around the product using a light tent. In post-processing, tools like the clone stamp or healing brush can remove distracting reflections that couldn’t be avoided during the shoot.

Over-editing

Excess of anything is harmful, and it's true for the editing process as well. Unwanted editing, such as over-saturation, heavy retouching, or artificial enhancements, can make the product look different from its actual appearance. This can also lead to customer dissatisfaction and product returns.

During the image refinement stage, aim for a natural appearance that reflects the product’s actual colors, textures, and details. Make subtle adjustments to color balance, contrast, and brightness. Use retouching tools minimally to improve the product without compromising its authenticity. For example, when editing food product images, over-saturation can make the food appear unrealistic, artificial, or overly processed. A balanced editing approach keeps the food looking fresh and appealing while staying true to its real-life appearance.

Extra Tip: Always compare the edited image to the actual product to ensure accuracy.

Neglecting Multiple Angles

Showing only one angle of the product limits the viewer's understanding of its features, dimensions, and usability. This can result in missed opportunities to highlight key selling points, leading to lost sales.

It’s critical to capture the product from multiple angles, including close-ups of important details, to provide a comprehensive view. Highlight different features such as buttons, zippers, or unique design elements. Consider using 360-degree photography or interactive images, allowing customers to explore the product from every angle.

For a pair of shoes, capturing images from the front, side, back, and top provides a full understanding of the design, comfort features, and craftsmanship. Close-ups of stitching, material, and sole grip add further value.

Lack of Context

Every business product has a distinct visionary concept & practicality behind it. Failing to show the product in use or in a relevant context can make it difficult for customers to visualize its functionality, size, or how it fits into their lifestyle. 

Include lifestyle shots that show the product being used in a real-world setting or alongside other objects to give a sense of scale and purpose. Consider creating a mix of studio and lifestyle images to provide a complete understanding of the product’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Incorrect White Balance

An incorrect white balance can cause colors to appear unnatural, making the product look different than it does in real life. When photographing clothing, an incorrect white balance can make a white shirt appear blue or yellow. By setting the correct white balance, you ensure the clothing’s color is represented accurately, reducing the risk of misleading customers.

Set the white balance according to the specific lighting conditions during the shoot, such as daylight, tungsten, or fluorescent lighting. If unsure, shoot in RAW format, allowing you to adjust the white balance during post-processing without losing image quality. Use a gray card or color checker during the shoot to ensure accurate color calibration.

Capturing Lesser Images

Assuming a few photos will be enough is like giving a single chapter of a book and expecting readers to grasp the entire story. One image only shows a fragment of the product’s story. Providing multiple photos from varied angles, close-ups of details, and context shots—offers a comprehensive view akin to reading the whole book. 

For example, showing a sofa from the front side and with a person lounging on it helps customers visualize size, comfort, and style. This complete visual narrative not only enhances understanding but also builds trust, leading to more informed and confident purchasing decisions.

Additional Tips To Improve Your Photography

Utilize 360-Degree Photography

Offer an interactive experience by allowing customers to view your product from every angle. 360-degree photography gives a complete visual overview, making it easier for customers to understand the product’s features and build trust in their purchase decisions.

Incorporate Motion with Video

Create product videos with smooth, continuous motion to highlight your product in a dynamic and engaging way. This technique leverages the power of motion, making your product stand out on social media and in online stores, capturing attention more effectively than static images.

Experiment with Creative Shadows and Lighting

Use creative lighting techniques to play with shadows and highlights, adding depth and intrigue to your product photos. For example, position lights to create interesting patterns or use colored gels to add mood and atmosphere, making your product more visually captivating.

Leverage Macro Photography

Capture extreme close-ups of your product to showcase intricate details that are often missed in standard shots. This technique is particularly effective for jewelry, watches, and textured materials, emphasizing the quality and craftsmanship of the product.

Use Environmental Reflections

Reflect your product in a complementary environment, like a reflective surface (glass or water), to add visual interest. This technique creates a unique and luxurious aesthetic that enhances the perceived value of the product.

Create Thematic Flat Lays

Arrange your product with related items in a flat-lay composition that tells a story. This method is especially effective for lifestyle products, as it demonstrates how the product fits into the customer’s daily life or a specific theme, increasing its appeal.

Conclusion

Knowing the don’ts of product photography saves you from making mistakes and achieving perfection. Following the tips above, you can capture exceptional shots worthy of attracting customers and achieve your promotional goals.

If you want to capture your products with the best product photography services, rely upon Elena Vels Studio to get started with the expert product photographers in town. We have experienced professionals and genuine product photography rates for you!