What are your go-to tools and equipment for capturing high-quality product images, and how do you choose between them for different shoots?

As an experienced product photographer, my toolkit is tailored to meet the diverse needs of different product shoots, ensuring the highest quality images. Here's an overview of the tools and equipment I typically rely on and how I choose between them:

1. Cameras:

• Primary Camera: A high-resolution DSLR or mirrorless camera like the Canon EOS R5 or Sony A7R IV for its excellent detail and dynamic range.
• Backup Camera: A dependable DSLR such as the Canon 5D Mark IV for versatility and reliability.
• Choice: The primary camera is used for shoots requiring extremely fine details (e.g., jewelry), while the backup camera handles general product photography.

2. Lenses:

• Macro Lens (e.g., Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM): For capturing intricate details of small products like jewelry or watches.
• Prime Lens (e.g., 50mm or 85mm f/1.4): Ideal for creating a natural look with a shallow depth of field.
• Zoom Lens (e.g., 24-70mm f/2.8): Offers flexibility for varying compositions and framing needs.
• Choice: Macro lenses for detail shots; prime lenses for lifestyle or creative shots; zoom lenses for shoots requiring versatility.

3. Lighting:

• Continuous Lights (e.g., Godox LED panels): For shoots that require consistent and adjustable lighting.
• Strobe Lights (e.g., Profoto B10): For crisp, high-quality images with controlled shadows and highlights.
• Softboxes and Diffusers: To create soft, even lighting that reduces harsh shadows.
• Reflectors: To bounce light and fill shadows.
• Choice: Continuous lights for reflective products like glass or metal; strobes for dynamic, high-impact images.

4. Backgrounds and Surfaces:

• Seamless Paper Rolls (e.g., white, black, gray): For a clean, professional look.
• Textured Backgrounds: For lifestyle or creative shots, including wood, marble, or fabric.
• Acrylic or Glass Sheets: For reflections or transparent effects.
• Choice: Seamless paper for e-commerce; textured backgrounds for brand storytelling.

5. Tripods and Stabilization:

• Manfrotto Tripods: For steady shots, especially during long exposure photography.
• Slider or Rotating Tables: For dynamic 360° product photography or videos.
• Choice: Tripods for precision; sliders or rotating tables for interactive visuals.

6. Accessories:

• Light Meters: To ensure accurate exposure.
• Color Checker or Gray Card: For precise color correction during editing.
• Clamps and Holders: To position products securely.
• Air Blower and Cleaning Tools: To keep products dust-free.
• Choice: Accessories vary based on the product type and shoot complexity.

7. Post-Production Software:

• Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop: For editing and retouching.
• Capture One: For tethered shooting and advanced color grading.
• Choice: Lightroom for batch edits; Photoshop for advanced retouching and compositing.

Choosing the Right Equipment:

• The choice depends on the product’s characteristics and the project’s requirements:
• Reflective Items: Use continuous lighting and polarizing filters.
• Small or Intricate Products: Macro lenses and soft diffused lighting.
• Large Items: Wider lenses and strobe lighting for even illumination.
• Creative Shots: Use textured backgrounds and natural lighting setups.

This toolkit and approach allow me to adapt to any product photography challenge, delivering tailored solutions that showcase products at their best.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with a wide range of tools for product photography, from budget-friendly options to high-end gear. Through this journey, a few tools have stood out as indispensable. If I had to keep just three items in my studio and let go of everything else, here’s what I’d choose:

1. A Camera with a Rotating Touchscreen & Focus Tracking (Sony A7IV)
In product photography, especially when shooting lifestyle setups with models—be it adults, toddlers, pets, or even objects in motion—having reliable focus tracking is a game-changer. My Sony A7IV excels in this department, ensuring the product always remains sharp and in focus. No more losing great shots due to blurry subjects! The rotating touchscreen is another essential feature, allowing me to quickly adjust angles and maintain a clear view of the composition without interruptions.

2. A Flash Gun
While I own a powerful Godox SK400 studio strobe, I often find myself reaching for my trusty Neewer flash gun. It’s portable, battery-powered, and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for dynamic setups where mobility and flexibility are key.

3. Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 Lens
This lens has become my go-to for everything. Its versatility is unmatched, whether I’m shooting in the studio or outdoors. Since adding it to my kit, my other lenses have taken a backseat—it consistently delivers outstanding results in any scenario.

These tools have become the backbone of my studio, making every shoot more efficient and delivering exceptional results.