Product Photography Lighting
One of the most important factors of taking a great product photo is lighting. So in this blog post, we will explore different lighting options for product photography, from the cheapest to the most expensive. So that you can get your head around the different lighting options available and what will work best for your needs and budget.
Please note that this blog post includes recommendations for lighting equipment. It is important to mention that while I haven't personally tested all the products listed below, I wanted to offer you options for both budget and higher price points. Based on extensive research and my familiarity with the brands, I have a strong confidence in these recommendations.
Light Tent
A light tent is a collapsible cube made of a white or translucent material that diffuses light evenly. It provides a soft and uniform light that eliminates harsh shadows and reflections, making it an excellent option for photographing small to medium-sized products.
You can purchase a light tent on Amazon for around $40. This can be used with either a DSLR or an phone camera but its recommended to use a tripod for better results.
Here are some options available on Amazon:
Ring Light
A ring light is a circular light that provides an even, diffused light source that eliminates harsh shadows. It is commonly used for portrait photography but can also be used for product photography, especially for small items like jewelry and cosmetics.
You can purchase a ring light on Amazon for around $30. This can be used with either a DSLR or an phone camera but its recommended to use a tripod for better results.
Here are some options available on Amazon:
Constant Light
A constant light is a light source that remains on continuously and provides a consistent light source. It is ideal for product photography since it allows you to see the exact lighting that the product will receive. Its also great if you are creating video content, like stop motion animations, instructional videos or piece to camera videos. Constant lights come in different types, such as fluorescent, LED, and tungsten.
You can purchase a constant light on Amazon for around $50, however the more you invest the more powerful the light tends to be. This can be used with either a DSLR or an phone camera but its recommended to use a tripod for better results.
Here are some options available on Amazon:
Strobe Lights
Strobe lights are flashes of light that are triggered by a camera or a remote trigger. They provide a powerful burst of light that freezes the motion and creates crisp, sharp images. Strobe lights are commonly used in professional commercial product photography, where a high level of detail is required.
You can purchase a budget strobe light on Amazon from around $80, although if you are investing in a strobe light I’d suggest spending the money to get something quality. These lights are usually used with a DSLR and a remote trigger.
Here are some options available on Amazon:
Well, there you have it! I hope this has helped you to take beautiful images of your products. If you take any images using this advice please come on over and join us in the photography for makers facebook group, I’d love to see your images!