Changing point of view, here is a trick in the service of still life. We are Studio Concept and we believe in the power of the image in cosmetics.
Indice
What is flat lay photography? History and origins
One only has to think back to one of Brad Walls’ masterpieces to realise how far the shooting technique is able to cross the boundary of the commercial photo. Sport, journalism and cooking are some of the natural territories of the plant photo. Here the framing shows its full strength.
Cosmetics are about colours and textures but also about shapes and, why not, vivid effects on the complexion. The flat lay helps because the subject is placed flat, shot from top to bottom. The perspective changes and the narrative moves from 3D to two-dimensionality, the photographic eye opens up to interesting interpretations.
Lighting techniques for flat lay: how to shoot?
The change of perspective opens up various keys to interpretation, playing with light is one way of enhancing the shot. Cosmetics is one of the main areas for experimentation, the plant shot allows an interpretation of the product starting from the combination of colours and light. Respecting the rules is the prerequisite for an effective shot.
Camera Angle and Settings
The lens and supporting surface must be parallel to each other, the 180° angle being one of the fixed points to be observed. Although the smartphone already promises some interesting results, the ideal shot requires professional light management.
The choice of lens is not always obvious. If a wide angle can distort lines, the 100 mm requires too much distance at the expense of definition in the shot. A good 50 mm is the ideal choice to preserve shapes and normalise ratios.
A lot depends on the size of the objects even if the secret lies in obtaining a still image, the aid of an adjustable tripod ensures the effective use of the wired shot. The image quality gains, which is much sharper and therefore able to capture every detail.
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Choice of background
Enhancing soft colours makes the technique easier to master. Actually, this is not a strict rule, but it is always worth letting the colour wheel help you find the right combination. Too many changes of tone can, however, affect the yield of the product.
The flat lay is a matter of balance; a professional approach takes space for graphics into account. The organisation of layouts can in fact open up to different types of interpretation, always appealing are solutions in which certain objects are not included in their entirety in the frame.
Background and layers are the perfect allies in a perspective that gives a sense of volume, superimposing subjects is one of the most immediate expedients. The rest is in the basics of composition.
Lights and Shadows
Narrow spaces between the lens and the subject prove to be a challenge, especially in the non-professional approach. Shadows and direct reflections can undermine even the best of ideas, which is why the appearance needs maniacal care. Natural light is perfect as long as there is no direct sunlight.
White foam is one of the most suitable devices, the panels can soften the light in the final result. Playing with muted colours is another way to keep shadows at bay; grey is one of the colours that most reduce the effect.
The double softbox is a viable alternative to natural lighting, the solution allows fine tuning to keep shadows under control. While avoiding contrasts, playing with darks can be an intriguing narrative approach.
Post-production and editing of flat lay photos
Product photography thrives on contrasts, this is how the shot introduces advanced retouching work. The strength of the flattened perspective lies in the play of juxtapositions, the shot then requires optimisation work through software. Cropping, changing the field, managing layers are just a few options at the service of the brand.
AI can help but it does not replace the professional approach in adjusting sharpness and colour but also exposure and noise in the shot. Cosmetics require a perfect product, this is what guarantees an impactful image. Careful preparation yields a good result, the next step aims at excellence.
Still life photographs of cosmetic products
In 3D as well as in the flattened version, professional still life is an art to be mastered. Every work becomes a vehicle for exact, well-organised communication in the design of the scene. Eliminating the superfluous and emphasising the meaning of every detail, that is what is needed.
Layout, contrasts and juxtapositions as well as lighting management are just some of the variables available. The aim is to seduce the eye, to unite the stylistic concept with the product’s peculiarities. The shot works when it succeeds in telling the brand, the narrative is immediate and reaches the target audience directly.
Flat lay photography is not just a technique, but a true art that allows cosmetic products to be enhanced through a unique and captivating perspective. Changing point of view is the trick that transforms still life, taking it to new levels of expressiveness and visual impact. At Studio Concept, we firmly believe in the power of images to narrate and promote cosmetics brands.
