What small businesses need from product photography
Product photography for a small business is not the same as editorial or advertising photography. The images need to be honest, consistent, and usable across multiple contexts. This is a plain account of what the brand and product sessions at Crimson Compass Studio are designed to produce.
What the images will be used for
The first question in any brand session is where the images will appear. Website images, social media images, and print advertising images have different technical requirements and different licensing implications. A file that works well on a website may not be large enough for a printed catalogue.
Susan discusses usage before the session and puts the licensing terms in writing. This is not complicated, but it avoids misunderstandings later. Most small business clients need a straightforward licence for website and social media use, which is the simplest and least expensive option.
Preparing your products
Products should arrive clean and in the condition you want them photographed. Fingerprints, dust, and minor surface marks are visible at close range and take time to retouch. For ceramics or glassware, a clean cloth and a few minutes before the session is worth the effort.
If you have a preference for background colour or texture, mention it when you book. The studio has a range of plain and textured backgrounds. If you want something specific, bring it with you.
What the session produces
A half-day brand session produces a set of edited images in the agreed formats, delivered as a private gallery within fourteen days. The number of images depends on the number of products and the complexity of the setups, not on a fixed count.
Most small business clients find that a half-day session covers their immediate needs. If you have a large range or need multiple setups, a full-day session is available at a higher rate. Get in touch to discuss what you have in mind before booking.
Good product images do not need to be complicated. They need to be accurate and consistent, and they need to work in the places you will actually use them.