Here we uncover many of the different techniques and approaches that we use at Stillview to achieve dramatic and effective images for our clients looking for creative commercial photography in Ipswich, London and beyond.
Photography Ipswich – View our commercial photography portfolio here.
Lighting
Creative use of light is, of course, what all photography is about, and this is no less true for commercial images. Lighting can be used to add drama and interest, but it can also be used to send subconscious messages to the viewer. For instance, how a product is lit can convey a great deal about the context in which a product might be used and even product qualities which could not be as successfully achieved by writing about it.
For instance, in this example below of a spiced ginger drink, the firelight showing through the glass adds a sense of warmth and comfort, suggestive of relaxation as well as the warming effect of the product itself – with not a word said.
Angles
Choosing an unusual angle adds instant interest and drama to any subject, as well as helping to make the image more eye-catching, which is often a key requirement for commercial images.
In this image of a lawn care vehicle, photographing from ground level with a wide angle lens makes for a far more impactful shot than photographing at eye level. And it ensures that the viewer's focus is firmly on the vehicle itself.
And in this business portrait, the dramatic angle helps to convey energy and originality, while still being very professional.
Colour
Even the simplest of objects can be transformed into eye-catching images simply through the use of colour. In this image below, the client needed a photograph of a bunch of carrots suspended from a cane. Using a purple background provides high contrast with both the orange and green of the subject, creating an image which is impossible to ignore.
Making Use of Nature
At Stillview Photography Ipswich we specialise in vehicle photography, especially for larger vehicles such as trucks and farm machinery. Most of these shots are taken on location and here the task is often to make use of the available weather and landscape to add to what is essentially a product shot.
For instance, in this image of a harvesting machine, capturing a sunset behind the vehicle draws the eye unavoidably to the subject while also adding a strong element of glamour and even romance to the most utilitarian of objects.
Less is More
Sometimes simplicity achieves the most intense and dramatic effect. For instance, in this business portrait the use of black and white, simple angle, and unfocussed and uncluttered background means that the viewer's focus is on the subject's face, while also conveying a businesslike atmosphere.
Post-Production
We can use post-production techniques to achieve images that are simply not possible through "straight" photography. Our Ipswich photography studio is equipped with the latest software for the manipulation of images allowing us to do any type of compositing or special effects that may be required to achieve the results a client needs for their campaign.
The image below, of a man flying a kite was achieved by photographing the man and the kite separately, performing the necessary background cut-outs using image manipulation software and superimposing the kite strings to create the final image.
Close Ups
A close up adds interest by allowing the viewer to see a level of detail they would not normally see or at a size they would not normally see. From a commercial point of view, as well making the image more noticeable, this helps to engage the viewer with the product or subject of the image. This can be particularly important where it is intended that the viewer will come into physical contact with the product, such as food and drink.
In this image below of multi-coloured macaroons, a super-close-up view, taken at table level (rather than from above) allows the viewer to see the fine texture and anticipate the physical experience of consuming the product.
Dare to be Different
While many of the above techniques can be taught through experience or bought via equipment or software, there is ultimately no substitute for the eye of the photographer and the ability to see the possibilities that most us would not even think of.
So when the brief is to take an external shot of a new furniture store, for use in publicity, who would think to take the shot at dusk and in the wet? In the image below, this approach results in dramatic contrasts of light, dark and reflections, with a rich blue background, as well as illumination of the shop contents, drawing the viewer inside.
Stillview Photography Ipswich are available for commercial photography of all kinds, from simple but effective product shots and business portraits through to creative image making for a multitude of business applications. Located just off the A14, we are in easy reach of Cambridge, Norwich, London and the South East by road or rail.
Creative Commercial Photography Ipswich – Click here to see more of our work, or call 01473 257063 to discuss your requirements.
