Every business needs to promote itself visually and there are vast numbers of small businesses in need of services to take quality images. Companies are realising that it is not as easy as it looks to shoot quality digital images on a plain background and skills are needed to do this. This is where someone who can take this type of shot can make good money.

By taking a little time and marketing skill you can find many businesses who don’t have large marketing budgets and are in need of the services of a good photographer. Here’s what you need to do.

1. Research

Do a search on local businesses from directories and the yellow pages in your area. Do a search for particular kinds of local businesses on the internet and look at the quality of their images. Most times they have been taken by the owner or staff and don’t reflect the quality of the product. Create a list of potential businesses to work from and get to know the products of each of them so that when you arrive at the store you will know what you are talking about.

2. Create a portfolio

By creating a simple portfolio of your work you will be able to demonstrate to the owner what you can deliver. We are visual people and the first impression created by a good portfolio will often open the door to some profitable business. If you have the time, shoot a few similar products in your studio to show what a particular item will look like so that the potential client has a better idea of how good it could look. You only have one chance to create a good first impression. This works especially well with estate agents and property realtors. Often you can tell the standard of their photo taking by looking in their window. If you deliver outstanding images that really showcase homes you’ll standing a good chance of getting some business.

3. Equipment

Good product photographers need a simple inexpensive setup to create good images. An essential item is a good light table coupled with a light tent and two good lights. Besides this a macro lens or extension tubes to get close up for smaller items is a valuable asset to your gear. An overhead light box or a ring flash will make it just that bit more simple to get your lighting right. On that topic, good lighting is essential to great product shots.

4. Creativity

Try to be more creative and come from a unique angle. Make sure your background complements the object and helps to showcase it. Bottom line is that your images should help the business owner to sell more of his product. If that happens you can be assured of more work and referrals. Don’t try to be too smart but rather focus on a simplistic, less is more approach that makes the product stand out clearly. Use props to complement the product without competing for attention.

You will always find work as a product photographer if you are prepared to look for it. Even if it is not a huge amount of work it can supplement your other areas of photography and bring in a tidy income.

Author: Wayne Turner
Photographer: Michael Chee