4
\$\begingroup\$

I was wondering if anyone has any major tips for taking images like this:

enter image description here

I've tried some before but never quite managed to get that same, well lit, bright and straight shot. I also have problems with getting shadows over the items when i'm above them.

Improve this question
\$\endgroup\$
4
  • \$\begingroup\$ Do we know what sort of lens was used? Maybe a tilt and shift? By the way, you can see a shadow on near the top left of the backpack and some light reflected off the Voss bottle. I think that might help. \$\endgroup\$
    – SailorCire
    Mar 5, 2015 at 15:53
  • \$\begingroup\$ @SailorCire I know there is "shadow" in the image, I just mean if I try a similar shot I find it hard to get "above" the items without casting some sort of shadow, thus stopping me from creating a nice bright/clean image. \$\endgroup\$
    – SaturnsEye
    Mar 5, 2015 at 16:43
  • 1
    \$\begingroup\$ There's a word for this! It's called "knolling". \$\endgroup\$
    – mattdm
    Mar 6, 2015 at 16:56
  • \$\begingroup\$ Thank you so much Matt! :) that will be enough for me to search the internet for tips and techniques. \$\endgroup\$
    – SaturnsEye
    Mar 6, 2015 at 17:00

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
2
\$\begingroup\$

The easiest way to get an image that looks straight on is to photograph it from as high as possible using a longer focal length, this greatly reduces the effect of not being quite parallel, and prevents objects in the corners from appearing to bulge outwards.

I usually use a tripod set to maximum height and a 100mm lens and shoot through the legs. If you have an indoor balcony from a floor above that would be even better.

Flat lighting is a matter of having a very soft lightsource. Window light from patio doors works well, or a flash bounced off a plain white ceiling.

Improve this answer
\$\endgroup\$
3
  • \$\begingroup\$ Nice, I'll try these techniques out \$\endgroup\$
    – SaturnsEye
    Mar 5, 2015 at 17:05
  • \$\begingroup\$ Shooting from as high as possible will also help not block the light source and throw a shadow from you, your tripod or camera. Having multiple light sources will help remove shadows. Or if using window light, a reflector. \$\endgroup\$
    – MikeW ♦
    Mar 5, 2015 at 19:40
  • \$\begingroup\$ there seems to be missing something: "from appearing to ..." \$\endgroup\$
    – ths
    Mar 6, 2015 at 15:22

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.