How to create images for press without leaving the home
Credit: stylist.co.uk
While it’s certainly not business as usual, small businesses (ourselves included) will still need to do what we can to keep our PR and marketing going. With press producing more online content than ever and showing their support for indie brands, having the right images in place or being able to produce them as and when they’re requested will help increase your chances of being featured.
Credit: www.kankan.london shot by Yeshen Venema
Thanks to photographers like Yeshen Venema you’ll luckily still be able to outsource your product and lifestyle photography during social isolation. By sending your products via post along with a solid brief Yeshen will shoot in his studio whether you’re after product shots, cutouts, lifestyle photography or moving images. Through video/screen sharing you’ll still feel like you’re part of and involved in the shoot.
Thinking outside the box
With everyone staying at home for the foreseeable, using the resources and props that you have available is another efficient, affordable and doable way of creating new imagery. If an editor has responded to your pitch asking for photos of your home office set-up, think of ways that you can make this happen by utilising your home space. And don’t worry if you don’t already have one; make the most out of natural lighting, create a cosy and plant-filled corner or set up a makeshift office.
Being stuck at home will ‘force’ you to think outside the box so see this as an opportunity to get more creative with your photography. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover how many opportunities you can create with the help of a few decorative accessories and window light.
Founder and ‘behind-the-scenes’ images
With press featuring indie businesses more than ever before to show their support, editors are likely to request founder images or images of your studio, workshop, and similar ‘behind-the-scenes’ shots. If you do get this request and don’t have any images at the ready, don’t panic. You’re likely able to take these shots at home. and turn it around quicker than you think.
We know how unnatural it can feel having your photo taken, however, experimenting, practicing and getting these types of shots done in the comfort of your own home might be more comfortable than anywhere else. Whether you’re using a tripod to hold your phone or have an assistant, finding an uncluttered backdrop and a light space in your home you’ll be able to produce high-quality images that are both professional and press-friendly.
Credit: maiklifestyle.com
The best indoors photographs require a source of natural light from a window. Dependant on your deadline, a tip is to take several shots the day before shooting to check what time is best for the light.
Credit: claireheffer.com
Credit: maiklifestyle.com
For product flat lay and lifestyle shots think about what brand-appropriate props you have lying around. For press usage, keeping the props to a minimum is key and avoid using any props from other brands where you can see the branding/brand name etc, as you want your product to be in focus.
Bear in mind that all images for press need to be a minimum of 300dpi and should be saved as PNG.
A leading UK product photographer, North London-based Yeshen specialises in the craft and design sector and is passionate about helping small businesses thrive through beautifully shot imagery.
New to PR? We are here to help!
As a small business, we know that where you invest your budget matters.
If you want to know which membership is right for your brand, register for one of our weekly membership tours below.