What You Need to Know Before Booking a Commercial Photo Studio for Product Photography.
When it comes to product photography, booking a commercial photo studio can be the difference between a successful marketing campaign and one that falls flat. With so many factors to consider, it’s important to know what you need to know before booking a commercial photo studio for product photography. From understanding the cost of the studio’s services to the equipment available and the experience of the photographer, you’ll need to consider all of this and more before you commit to a studio. This guide will help you ensure that the studio you choose is the right one for the job and that your product photography will be up to the highest possible standards.
Understanding the cost of using a commercial photo studio
The cost of the studio’s services will depend on a number of factors, such as the location of the studio, the equipment used, the type of shoot, and the experience and skills of the photographer. The cost of renting a studio can range from around $300-$2,500 per day, with the average price being $1,500. Be sure to check the price list for any additional charges you’ll need to pay, such as travel expenses for bringing the photographer to you and the cost of renting any extra equipment. The base price should include everything you’ll need to get started with product photography, such as lights and backdrops.
Assessing the equipment available
Before booking a commercial photo studio, you’ll need to assess the equipment available. The studio should offer the best equipment, such as top-of-the-line light sources and camera equipment. The studio’s lighting equipment should be consistent and easily adjustable, so you can create different types of lighting effects. When assessing the studio’s equipment, keep an eye out for the following: A minimum of 3 different light sources – These will include a backlight, a fill light and a kicker light. A portable backdrop stand – You’ll need to be able to swap out backgrounds quickly, so look for a studio that has a portable stand for the backdrop. A light meter – A light meter will help you to adjust the lighting quickly and easily. A flash trigger – This will allow you to trigger the studio’s light sources remotely.
Evaluating the photographer’s experience
The experience of the photographer will play a huge role in how your product photography turns out. Look for a photographer with plenty of experience in product photography, as well as in other areas of photography. A photographer with experience will be able to get the best possible shots and create stunning images that will help your product stand out. When assessing the photographer’s experience, keep an eye out for the following: The photographer’s portfolio – The best way to determine if a photographer has the experience and skill needed for product photography is to look at their portfolio. Be sure to check for any product shots, as well as their use of light. Here’s what you should look for in a product photographer’s portfolio: – Bright, clear images – High-quality product photography should feature images that are crisp, clear and bright. If the images are dark or blurry, this could be a sign that the photographer doesn’t have the right skills or equipment. – Good use of shadows and lighting – A good product photographer will use shadows and light to create a mood or draw attention to certain aspects of the product. – Consistent framing and angles – The framing and angles of the product images should be consistent throughout the photographer’s portfolio. This will show that the photographer knows what works and what doesn’t.
Looking at sample images
Before booking a commercial photo studio, be sure to look at sample images from the studio that will be photographing your products. These sample images should cover a range of products and be taken in different lighting conditions and with different props and backgrounds. An important thing to note when looking at sample images is the photographer’s use of natural light versus artificial light. Natural light is best for product photography, as it will create a very clean, crisp image. Artificial light can be good for bringing out certain colors, but it can also result in a very hazy look that isn’t ideal for product photography.
Making sure the studio has the right space
Before booking a commercial photo studio, be sure to check the space they’re using for product photography. You’ll want to make sure the studio has a room with adequate space and good light. A room that’s too small can make it difficult to get the shots you need, while a room with poor lighting will result in images that aren’t as crisp and clear as they could be. You’ll also want to make sure the studio is using a space that’s appropriate for your needs. For example, you may be using a commercial studio that was designed for fashion photography. If you’re shooting cooking utensils, this space may not be ideal for your product photography needs.
Checking for any additional services
While you’re booking a commercial photo studio, be sure to check for any additional services the studio offers. Some studios offer other services that can make the product photography process easier, such as assistance with props and styling. Other services that you might look for in a commercial photo studio include: – Photo retouching – If you’re shooting a large product like a car or a piece of furniture, you may have difficulty getting the whole thing in the shot. A photo retouching service can be a huge help in these situations. – Prop hire – Although you can bring some of your own props to the studio, others may not fit into the space or be appropriate for the type of photography you’re doing. – Food styling – Food photography often requires more careful styling than other types of product photography. – Set design – If you’re shooting on a tabletop or with a small product in an indoor environment, you may need help with set design to create the perfect shot.
Determining the turnaround time
When booking a commercial photo studio, you’ll also want to determine the turnaround time, or the amount of time it will take to get your product photography images. Product photography can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on a variety of factors. You’ll want to account for any setup time and the time it will take to get the best possible images. The more time you have, the better. For example, if you’re shooting outdoors, you may want to schedule a shoot for the middle of the day when the light is at its brightest. This will help you get the best possible images without having to worry about the light changing throughout the day. If you’re shooting indoors, you may want to avoid having your shoot on a Friday afternoon, as most studios are closed on the weekends and will delay your product photography.
Reading and understanding the terms and conditions
Before booking a studio for product photography, be sure to read and understand the terms and conditions. There may be certain requirements or restrictions you’ll need to adhere to, such as providing your own props or providing access to your product for as many shots as the photographer needs. Make sure you understand any restrictions and are prepared for any requirements the photographer may have. If you’re booking a commercial photo studio online, you may be able to find their terms and conditions on their website or in the booking form. If you’re booking offline, you’ll need to ask the commercial photo studio for their terms and conditions. This is important because the terms and conditions can vary from one company to another, and you may not be allowed to use the images you get from one studio for your marketing materials.
Finding the right studio for your product photography needs
The best commercial photo studio for your product photography needs is the one that meets all of your requirements. The studio should have the right equipment, offer equipment that meets your needs, and have a photographer with the right experience for the job. It should also have the right space for the type of product photography you need done, complete with any additional services that will make the process easier. In order to find the right studio for your product photography needs, you’ll need to do your research and select the studios that meet your specific criteria.
Mike Haller
314-913-5626
stlouisphotostudio@gmail.com
St Louis Photo Studio 