Shoe Photography Tips

The word photography is derived from the Greek φ English: phos (light) and γραφι English: graphis (painting, drawing) or γραφ graphê, which together mean "drawing with light." Photography refers to the process of recording images using certain specialized equipment. Generally, we use mechanical cameras or digital cameras for photography. Below are the shoe photography tips that I have compiled for your reference. I hope it can help friends in need.

Basically, three-point lighting is used to light the subject. The so-called three-point lighting method uses three or more different light sources, including "key light", " "Fill light" and "backlight" light sources are used to create a three-dimensional sense of the subject and at the same time show the original characteristics of the subject. The light source chosen this time is studio lights commonly used in photo studios. Compared with external flashes, making good use of the modeling function of studio lights can more effectively predict the effect of light on the subject and save exposure time for test shots.

(1) On-site layout

As for the background, hang a piece of black background paper on the background stand to reduce unnecessary reflection, and then shoot on the table. I originally planned to put the shoes on a long wooden board for the photo shoot, but had no choice but to have an accident during the preparation and I couldn't find a suitable prop, so I found multiple long wooden strips and put them together in the studio. (So ??adaptability is one of the skills of a photographer)

(2) Lighting:

The first key light (Key Light)

Light the shoelaces on the right side of the camera, use an extra-large long diffuser, and then fine-tune the angle to reveal the brand badge on the shoes. The light output of this light is the highest among the three light sources. In addition, the lighting angle is similar to the plane of the shoelaces, which prevents the flash from causing excessively strong shadows on the inside and outside of the shoelaces.

The second fill light (Fill Light)

Light the relief pattern near the heel on the left side of the camera, and the direction of the light is sideways and horizontal, the intention is to use The Highlight feature enhances the concave and convex feeling of the relief pattern. A long diffuser is also used to create a soft light effect and reduce the difference between light and dark positions. The luminosity output is relatively weaker than the main light, which increases the visual three-dimensional effect.

The third backlight (Back Light)

This light source uses a snoot commonly known as a pig's mouth. The lowest output of the three light sources is concentrated on the yellow part of the top of the shoe. At the same time, outline the top of the shoe from the black background to facilitate post-production. Using a snoot can effectively focus the light source on a specific location to create a strong spotlight effect. It is a powerful light control tool for shooting small subjects.

Finally, save the finished RAW files to the computer for post-production. This time, the professional image processing software Capture One was used to calibrate the color temperature and fine-tune the light and dark contrast. Then, the black background was removed in Adobe Photoshop, and a background found from the Internet was inserted. Finally, two pictures with different light and dark were used. Layer imitates the light print of the background.

Of course, the above false background processing can be achieved by using an extra flash, but this is the last resort due to the limitations of the venue. Remember, no matter how amazing the photographer or retoucher’s “PS” skills are, the preliminary work is still important.