3307. Photography tips: Shoot perfect 'flat lay' still life images at home

Prctical photography Feb 2018

Natasha Breen. professional food, product and still life photogrpaher, shoots for stock agencies like Shutterstock, industry client.

www.breen-photo.com

Flat is trendy - Instagram
Camera  Canon 700D  EF 70-200mm f/4L/2.8 ens IS USM    Sigma 17-50mm lenses
Tripod no.  This is because she shoots with studio lights. The flash will freeze camera movement and gives crisp details.  Prefer handheld to make small adjustments. Live view makes composition easier.

Composition
Look for harmony for good results. Spend time arranging them. Objects, position, textures and light.

Lighting and flash gear
1. Usually a very simple one-light setup with or without a reflector depending on how much she wants to fill the shadows.
2.  Two flashes to imitate the look of sunshine or high-key, low-contrast look.
3. Important to soften the light to prevent too much contrast or distracting highlights and shadows.

Exposure settings to maximise sharpness of details and texture
1. Flat images are all about sharpness.  She aims to have enough depth of field ro keep everything in focus, from the closet details of the objects to the texture of the background.

2. Usually aperture of f/7.1 to f/14.  As she lights with flash, ISO setting is low. This provides best quality and minimal noise (which affect sharpness or hide fine details).

Tip
Objects m b the right kind for a flat lay image. Clear shapes, not too high. A lack of reflections help the overall harmony. Quality and texture of the background are important. Must complement or contrast with them.

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