Secrets of Creative Commercial Photography

At first sight, the idea of commercial photography may seem rather uninspiring – business portraits for websites or product photos for catalogues and advertisements – but in the hands of experienced professionals with the right tools and creative flair, such as Stillview Photography Ipswich, these rather prosaic subjects can be transformed into something original and even dramatic.

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.

Large Vehicle Photography Ipswich

While large vehicles, tractors and vans may not seem at first hand to be dramatic, artistic or creative, we at Stillview Photography, Ipswich, specialise in creating just such images.  We are experienced in producing inspirational vehicle photography and our images have seen wide commercial use, from glossy magazines and brochures, to company artwork, and advertising boards.

We create imaginative vehicle shots from our photography studio in Ipswich, or for best results, we take innovative photographs of your vehicles, or fleet, on location: whether that’s on a dual carriageway, or with a more scenic backdrop, such as the countryside, coast or a historic building.

Photography Ipswich – Click here for some examples of our commercial vehicle photography carried out at our Ipswich studio and on location.

Commercial Uses for Vehicle and Transport Photography

Vehicle and transport photography doesn’t just involve haulage companies; instead, there are many more commercial uses for photography of large vehicles. Whether you require photography in Ipswich, or elsewhere in the UK, Stillview can create the inventive shots that put your company ahead of the competition. Here are just some of the many aspects of vehicle photography:

Vehicles as products – If you have a company that sells large vehicles – such as lorries, vans, tractors and other farm machinery – you will want to show these vehicles in the best possible light. Whether you require photography for a glossy brochure, or to include on other forms of advertising material, such as posters, leaflets, or the company website, high quality photographs of your vehicles form an essential part of your promotion strategy. At Stillview photography we have wide experience in this area, and the ability to create the best possible shots to help drive up sales figures.

Brand photography – In many business and organisations, company vehicles have a strong brand presence. They are highly visible on the roads and public places and people can identify with them as part and parcel of the brand. With brand photography, the focus is on the corporate image, rather than the vehicle directly (such as a haulage company fleet or a shipping company). The resulting images can be used for general advertising, PR, brochures, websites and as artwork in reception areas.

Vehicles as scenery – Some clients prefer their vehicles to be photographed as background scenery, where the focus is on the staff or another aspect of the company. Photographs that show the vehicle as part of a larger setting may only show part of the vehicle. This is usually when the client wants to demonstrate a certain part of their company’s service, such as delivery. They want to show interaction between a deliverer and a client, but also include the vehicle with its branding. An example on the Stillview website is our shoot for British Telecom, where the engineer is carrying out an installation inside and a large BT van is seen outside, through the premises window.

Vehicle Photography Techniques

At Stillview we use various techniques and methods to create artistic large vehicle shots. Here are some of the most common:

Studio – We can produce vehicle photography at our Ipswich studio as we can accommodate vehicles up to the size of a small van. In-house photography, rather than photography on location, allows for the use of special lighting, various backgrounds and colours.

On location – Shoots on location are more suited for vehicles larger than a small van. It is easiest to create more inventive and original shots on location as we can make use of natural lighting, scenic landscape and other settings, such as bridges, dual carriageways and coastal backdrops as well as trees, sky and other natural features.

Vehicles in use – Photographing vehicles in use emphasises the practicality and functionality of the vehicle and allows a viewer to imagine themselves driving it. Placing a vehicle on the terrain where it is expected to be used – such as a ploughed field for a tractor, the countryside for a quad bike or a golf green for golfing carts – emphasises its suitability for the task.

Lighting – For simple "product" shots it is important to use  simple, even lighting with minimal shadows, as this will show the features of the vehicle most clearly. For brand photography, lighting can be used to create atmosphere, mood or drama – whichever is appropriate for the brand. For example, a sunset backdrop may not clearly show every detail of a vehicle, but this will create an image with drama and natural beauty: traits that will become associated with the brand.

Post-Production – Work done in the studio after the photograph has been taken allow for creative image making.  For example, multiple shots of a single vehicle from different angles can be placed into a single image, or special effects can be used to suggest movement and speed. After location shoots, we may also need to clean up the images to ensure the focus is on the vehicle, and there are no distracting features in the shot (such as reflections or unintended objects).

Stillview Photography has many years experience of large vehicle photography in Suffolk, East Anglia and throughout the UK. To find out more about Stillview Photography, and to browse our large vehicle portfolio, just click on the link below.

Photography Ipswich – Click here for some examples of our commercial people photography carried out at our Ipswich studio and on location.

It's a dog's life at Stillview photography Ipswich

I recently completed a photographic assignment for a new company producing high quality dog biscuits and treats.

 

The company Barkers of Suffolk is a new enterprise and required supporting images for exhibition stands, website and general PR, having gone through many photographers’ websites the managing director of the company especially liked our food section within our portfolio www.stillview.co.uk/portfolio/food-and-drink/

The brief was to supply images of the manufacturing process, emphasising on the Hand Made element, I also advise the client on how I thought the style should come across (see image).

 

The biscuits and treats looked fabulous and photograph them was a real pleasure, I was lucky enough to be able to road test them on my own dog Digger and his verdict was excellent.

Photography Ipswich  - click here for full information on our commercial photography services.

People Photography Ipswich

Stillview Photography in Ipswich carry out a wide range of people photography and portraits for use in a variety of commercial applications. . Our Ipswich photography studio is fully equipped allowing for a full range of lighting and set creation, as well as up to the minute post-production software enabling us to create exactly the results our clients need, from simple business portraits to complex images for high-concept marketing campaigns.

Photography Ipswich  – Click here for some examples of our commercial people photography carried out at our Ipswich studio and on location.

Commercial Uses for People Photography

Business Portraits – Business portraits can be used on websites, company newsletters, brochures, business cards, LinkedIn profiles and in the company's reception area.

Person as Brand – These photographs are ideal for business owners who want to be closely identified with their own product or brand. Business owners can have a photograph taken with their product , or on location in a working setting, such as a chef or restaurant owner working in their kitchen.

Creative – Often required for advertising purposes, creative people shots usually involve showing people in unusual locations, clothes or situations that illustrate something about a product or convey a concept or value. 

Lifestyle – This type of shot can be used to illustrate or suggest a particular lifestyle even if the product is not directly present. This is ideal for intangible products that cannot be shown in use such as financial or insurance services or to show human values and emotions linked with the brand such as trendy, energetic, tranquil or fun.

Products in Use – These photographs are designed to show a person of the target age group or other demographic using, consuming or wearing a product. Including a "typical customer" in the image brings products to life and helps the viewer to imagine themselves using the product.

Service Shots – Service shots are used to show company personnel carrying out a service, for instance shop staff, installation engineers, call centre operators and reception staff. This is particularly useful when the product or service itself is difficult to see and can help the customer to engage with the advert or image.

The Art of People Photography

Photographing people requires a range of personal and technical skills to achieve the right impression and impact. At Stillview we combine 30 years experience with state of the art techniques and facilities to produce exceptional people images.

Rapport
Rapport is used to help models or sitters to relax in order to achieve the desired expression, which can affect the way the viewer reacts to and engages with the picture.  At Stillview we are experienced at helping sitters to feel comfortable in order to achieve portraits which are both professional and engaging.

Lighting
Lighting is important to ensure clarity for business portraits. It can be softer or more atmospheric for lifestyle or creative shots. Split lighting, where half the face is in the light and half in the shadow, can be used to create a dramatic effect and gives quite a masculine look to a picture. Loop lighting is a technique which causes shadows from the nose to fall on the cheeks. This is very popular as it is flattering for nearly everyone. Stillview use a range of lighting techniques to suit the subject and the intended use for the pictures.

Focus
Focus can be used to ensure a viewer is attending to the image in the right way. For example, sharp focus can be used when you want the viewer to pay particular attention to the person depicted such as for a business portrait or a person using a product. Soft focus can be used when the person is illustrating a lifestyle and attention should be on the product or something else in the picture.

Angles
Angles create a more dramatic image, can help to draw the eye to the desired spot and can also be used to convey a brand value such as energy, innovation or stability. Using the same angle for a set of business portraits also helps to create visual consistency between them, which gives a very professional impression when presented together.

Colour or Black and White
Use of black and white photography is often used for professional portraits as it can lend some seriousness to an image even if the subject's expression is informal. It also helps to hide a multitude of imperfections and is very useful in making a set of images feel consistent with each other. Use of colour photography, by contrast, is ideal for injecting life and energy into an image or to reflect corporate colour schemes (for instance, models wearing clothing or accessories with the right colours).

Retouching
For commercial uses it is important to remove imperfections to avoid viewer distractions and help the viewer focus on the intended message.  At Stillview we have state of the art post-production facilities enabling people shots to be adjusted as required to achieve the result the client needs.

Compositing
Particularly for creative shots, it can often be necessary to use compositing techniques to add backgrounds or other objects to a shot that simply couldn't be achieved naturally. At Stillview we have wide experience of compositing techniques to create innovative and eye-catching images.

At Stillview we provide all aspects of commercial photography, including product, advertising and people photography. Ipswich based, we serve clients in Suffolk and East Anglia.  We have a first class reputation for high quality and reliability and are always available for a no obligation quote.

People Photography Ipswich - click here to view our people photography portfolio

Stillview's Ipswich Photography studio jumps to the challenge

I recently undertook a photographic assignment from our Ipswich photography studio for one of China's largest manufacturers of trampolines.

The company required images of their new trampoline range which included 8, 12 and 16 feet models. Each of the models has exactly the same inherent problem when they are photographed, the safety net behind needs to have a white background in order for it to look correct, this need a large space, thankfully at our Ipswich studio we have just under 4000 ft.² to play with.

Having this amount of space is essential when photographing such large items. The other benefit of having a large photography studio is that whilst one item is being photographed another one can be built saving the client valuable time and money.

The cost savings the client achieved were considerable; they had previously used a studio where only one item could be built at a time, having this extra space allowed the client to build not one but two trampolines at a time ready to then be photographed.

The images are being used for packaging, brochure and online, with an estimated 150,000 trampolines being sold in the UK alone this year having the right images is essential.

Stillview's Ipswich photography studio is conveniently located not only for people from China but also Colchester, bury St Edmunds, Cambridge and of course London.

Ipswich Photography Studio  For more information on how Stillview could save you money and time please contact me Roger Hancock on Ipswich (01473) 257063 or e-mail info@stillview.co.uk

Photography Ipswich – The Art of Taking Commercial Quality Studio Shots

Stillview Photography, Ipswich, provides a comprehensive range of commercial quality photography and includes on location/exterior and studio/interior shots. This ability to cater for a range of photographic needs in one place, combined with state of the art equipment and decades of experience, has earned us a reputation for convenience, creativity and reliability amongst those looking for a commercial photographer in Ipswich, Suffolk, London and beyond.

Here we focus on the range of interior photography that Ipswich photographer Stillview offers to its clients, and aim to give some insight into the expertise and techniques that it takes to produce top quality, commercial grade images that not only look great but do the job our clients need them to do.

Interior Photography Ipswich  – click here to view some examples of interior photography at our Ipswich studio.

A Full Range of Studio Photography
Our fully equipped and spacious photography studio allows us to take a full range of interior shots, from small product and packaging shots right up to full size vehicles and everything in between, including business portraits, model photography, food and drink shots and roomset photography.

We can even use our studio to produce images which appear to have been taken outside or on location, such as a living room shot with apparently natural light coming in at the window and even external scenery. But to achieve this requires an extensive range of equipment and techniques backed by, above all, a great deal of experience.

What Makes the Perfect Commercial Photograph?
The functionality and ease of use of modern cameras can be deceptive, belying the complexity and skill that needs to go into even a simple product shot. Here are just some of the key elements which all need to be in place to achieve a successful commercial quality image.

The Right Lighting
All photography needs to control and capture light to achieve a clear image. But successful commercial photography has to go one step further. In commercial photography the lighting becomes part of the message, conveying information about the quality and desirability of the product, contributing to the way it is perceived and strongly influencing its success.

For a simple product or packaging shot to be used on a website or catalogue, for instance, clarity and consistency are essential. Lighting needs to be even across the product to allow the details to be clearly seen; and for multiple products the lighting needs to be consistent for all the photos, enabling them to look right when placed next to each other in a catalogue. We achieve this through the use of soft boxes and light shapers to closely control the light falling onto the product and enabling us to achieve the same lighting for each product within a shoot.

For roomset photography the challenge is to create the impression of natural light within a living room or bedroom, to bring the products to life and help viewers imagine themselves into the shot. For aspirational lifestyle products such as furniture clients often want us to create shots which feel 'bright and airy', 'warm and cosy' or 'calm and contemporary', for example. All of which we have successfully achieved on many occasions at our studio.

The Right Colour Balance
Capturing colours correctly is a challenge in a studio environment, but it is essential for most commercial applications. For products such as furniture, clothing and even vehicles, colour choice is of great importance to customers and they will tend to put great store by the colour they see in the product photo. If colour is incorrect by any significant amount, this discrepancy can even result in severe problems for the client, handling returns and complaints. In other applications, colours are a key part of a company's logo and packaging and must be photographed correctly in order to properly represent the brand. At our Ipswich photography studio we employ the most up-to-date colour correction systems available, enabling us to achieve close to perfect colour balance.

The Right Resolution
Commercial quality photos often have to be able to be used in a wide variety of applications and sizes, from a small thumbnail on a website to a 48 sheet advertising hoarding and everything in between. To ensure full versatility we shoot in very high resolution and always provide images in a variety of digital formats suitable for whatever application the client may need now or in the future, whether print or digital. This approach means clients get maximum value for all images taken, allowing them to be re-used in different applications for years to come.

The Right Post-Production
For some types of interior shot it is frequently necessary or desirable to manipulate the raw photograph to achieve the effect the client is after. For instance, a roomset with a window may need to be provided with a view to the outside. A product shot may need to be cut out from its background to achieve a clean and consistent look. Where shots include human subjects there may be a need to clean up distracting imperfections, or to allow physically impossible images to be created to help convey a particular advertising message. For vehicle shots we may need to remove reflections, or provide an exterior background. This kind of digital manipulation requires extremely sophisticated post-production software of the type we use at Stillview, combined with creativity and expertise to achieve a convincing result. Stillview specialise in this type of post-production, helping clients to bridge the gap between raw photography and the work of creative agencies. In fact, our ability in this area means we are often in demand from advertising and PR agencies, as well as clients directly.

The Right Photographer
All the equipment and technical expertise we've described above will only get you so far. What really makes a commercial image "sing" is something that can really only be learned through many years of experience: experience of being able to fully appreciate what each client is trying to achieve; and experience of translating intangible requirements about brand and lifestyle into the final images ready to be put to use. In short, it means choosing the right photographer. Stillview has 30 years of just this type of experience, making us the perfect choice for all interior photography projects.

Interior Photographer Ipswich – click here to view some examples of work taken at our Ipswich studio.

For clients in London, Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk or Cambridgeshire looking for a reliable commercial photographer, Ipswich provides an ideal location, around an hour by train or car from London, connected to Cambridge via the A14 and to Norfolk and Essex via the A12.

To find out more about what Stillview can offer your business please call us on 01473 257063 to speak to a photographer in our Ipswich studio.