This is typically the case when shooting something that is white on white, like the embroidered USA I just finished. Natural light will reflect off the white on white subject leaving the lighting uneven and can compromise the details in your picture.
Have no worries, there is a solution and the solution is simple. Add additional light. Invest in some clamp lights.
Clamp lights which are sold at most home improvement stores for about $5 or $6 dollars a piece. 2 should be enough to provide additional lighting on each side of your subject.
To build upon previous 'Go Manual' photography tips, set your camera to 'tungsten light' to push the quality of your pictures even further.
So, next time the sun isn't cooperating with you, get out your clamp lights and make your own light.
I know this is a good idea, but I just can't bite the bullet to buy additional lighting ;). I guess if I took more "product" shots, it'd be a great investment, like you said. Great idea to use foam board as your reflector. How cute is your daughter with that old camera! Does it still work?
ReplyDeleteeven though i should do this...i don't! for the blog, i'm ok with the pictures not being "perfect," but could see how this is vital for a store/shop...especially when you are trying to entice people to buy your stuff. great tip!
ReplyDeleteGreat tips Amy! Thanks! I use foam board in most of my pictures. You can get it at the Dollar Tree for 99 cents.
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness! What a difference! Now I just need a non-phone camera! ;)
ReplyDeleteOh it's like a studio in your house, very cool, alas I'm also of the phone camera variety lighting is my only friend.
ReplyDeleteWhen you posted that piece of advice about the Tungsten light I had no idea what you were talking about. I just went back and reread it and now I do! :) I am totally going to get some of those lights--$5-$6?? What a bargain!
ReplyDeleteThank you Amy. We have been doing this too for our Etsy shop photos.
ReplyDeleteWe like to use foam board.
This is great, thanks for sharing! :)
ReplyDeleteyes, lighting is the key! thanks for the enlight us :)
ReplyDeleteI'm very grateful for these photography tips. My photography skills have a long way to go... and I know that lighting is one of the most important things to get a handle on.
ReplyDeleteYou bought regular clamp lights, and do you use soft white bulbs? Do you ever diffuse light? My flash is also a built-in. Do you use your hot shoe?
Wow. I'm barraging you. Sorry! :)
Clamp lamp added to the ASAP shopping list! I'm tired of trying to fit in all of my blog pics at the only time of day one room in our house gets perfect lighting. Love that pic of your little girl in the opening shot. You always have the best pictures!
ReplyDeleteExcellent tips! And way cheaper than buying professional lights if this works just as well!
ReplyDeleteGreat tip! I have a couple of those clamp lamps but we used them to keep baby animals warm when it's cold. :) Never thought to use them as photography equipment. I'll have to give it a try.
ReplyDeleteLiving in the Pacific Northwest, we have a lot of gray days to contend with. It's been a real challenge to photograph projects. It's also difficult if I want to take photos in the evening when I have time. Thanks so much for the tips. I love the photo of your daughter and the vintage camera - what a cute pose!
ReplyDeleteGreat idea, Amy! I have a few of those around next time I'll have to remember to use them. :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a fabulous idea! Clamp lights are on my list now ...
ReplyDelete:) Linda
I have a workmen's light... does that give the same effect?
ReplyDeleteWhat a great tip!
ReplyDeleteLight makes such a huge difference in photos. It's the number one thing in my opinion. I've been wanting to make one of those "light boxes" for my food photography but haven't done it yet...I'm thinking maybe one or two of these easy clamp lights might get me inspired to go all the way! Thanks Amy. :)Di
ReplyDeletePS your little princess is sweet as ever:)