Flat lay photography is a photography style that can make your food and product shots pop. On platform like pinterest and instagram flat lay photography has grabbed our attention.
Whether you're an aspiring food blogger, a product marketer, or just a photography enthusiast, mastering the art of flat lay photography can take your images to the next level. In this blog, we'll share 10 essential tips to help you create stunning and attention-grabbing flat lay photos of food and products.
Choose the right backdrop:
Pick a backdrop that complements your subject. Wooden boards, marble, rustic tables, or simple white surfaces work well. The background should provide contrast while not overpowering the main subject. Find the perfect balance with your subject and the backdrop. When selecting your backdrop, it's crucial to pay attention to the material. It's advisable to go for backdrops that are both waterproof and resistant to stains. Unfortunately, many backdrops lack these features. It can be truly disappointing when your food photography session turns messy and ends up ruining your backdrop. We have a broad selection of PVC vinyl backdrops to go with every scene imaginable which are waterproof and easy to wipe clean due to it’s long lasting material.
Use natural light:
Natural light is your best friend when it comes to flat lay photography. Position your setup near a large window to capture soft, diffused light. Avoid harsh, direct sunlight, which can create harsh shadows.
Plan your composition:
Before you start shooting, arrange your props and products in a pleasing composition. Think about the balance, symmetry, and visual flow of your flat lay. It's often helpful to sketch your ideas beforehand or to create a moodboard to give you some direction during your shoot.
Keep it simple:
Less is often more in flat lay photography. Avoid cluttering the frame with too many items or excessive props. Simplicity allows your subject to shine and helps the viewer focus on what's important.
Pay attention to details:
Ensure your subject is clean and in perfect condition. Remove any unwanted crumbs, dust, or blemishes. Neatly arrange utensils, ingredients, or products for a polished and clean appearance.
Choose the right angle:
Flat lay photography typically involves shooting from directly above the subject. However, don't be afraid to experiment with different angles to add depth and interest to your photos. Slight tilting or diagonal perspectives can be visually appealing.
Play with colors:
Use a color scheme that complements your subject and creates a harmonious look. Experiment with props and backdrops in matching or contrasting colors to make your flat lay pop.
Create depth:
Use props strategically to create depth in your photos. Place objects in the foreground, middle ground, and background to add a 3D effect. This draws the viewer's eye into the frame.
Experiment with textures:
Incorporate various textures to make your flat lay more visually appealing. Consider using different fabrics, textures, and surfaces to create more interesting images.
Edit and enhance:
After you've taken your photos, don't forget to edit them. Use photo editing software to adjust brightness, contrast, sharpness, and colors to achieve the desired look. There are many great mobile apps available for on-the-go editing.
Conclusion:
Flat lay photography is a captivating and creative way to showcase food and products. With the right background, lighting, composition, and a good eye for detail, you can create stunning flat lay images that tell a compelling visual story. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be afraid to experiment and develop your own unique style. Happy flat lay shooting!
