A particular difficulty in product photography is the so-called “pocket photos.” For example, if you want to properly stage handbags and shoulder bags, you will notice that many bag models do not simply stand alone in a light tent or on a pedestal. But there are some helpful tips for this.
The right positioning for pocket shots
Let’s take, as an example, a little shoulder bag or shoulder bag that we want to photograph for our online shop. Someplace this bag in the hollow of the light tent. Unfortunately, the models look a lot too flat and not very appealing. The shoulder strap is then fixed quite unnaturally at the top edge. When designing the picture, the actual bag only takes up the lower part of the photo. The viewer is distracted by the narrow shoulder strap. Unfortunately, you cannot put the bag down, as it tilts over due to the small floor area. For very small pocket models, this can be fixed to the hollow on the rear side with a pin to occupy an upright position. However, most models are much larger.
A tailor’s doll as assistance
Bags are best photographed so that the viewer sees them in action. Quite realistic is a tailor’s doll. This is provided with a garment, which offers a good contrast to the bag. The shoulder bag is then fixed to the shoulder of the tailor doll with a pin so that it cannot slide down. In addition, you should choose a white wall or door as much as possible as a background. With a spotlight or sufficient lighting, the bag should be well illuminated.
But the tailor doll can also be set up outdoors against a suitable background. In daylight, the shots succeed even better. The image section is chosen so that the bag fits completely and format-fills the photo. As a rule, the portrait format is best suited here. The result looks as if someone is carrying the bag on their shoulder. The contents of the bag must be stuffed with some paper to reproduce in good shape. You can do without a flash or even different lighting if you work with a tripod.
In addition to the total shot, you should also photograph special pocket details, i.e., important applications, such as buckle closures and accessories. Maybe there will also be a human model willing to hang this bag. Many bags have different sides, so it is advisable to photograph both sides of the bag. So on the outside, additional zippered outer pockets can be seen, and on the inside, perhaps a great pattern.
Additional photo editing is often useful
If the background is not pleasing, it can be cut out with appropriate photo editing software. The cropping function professionally detaches the bag from the background. Nevertheless, the shoulder of the tailor doll or model should remain a little visible.
The inside of the bag is important to many viewers
Most of the bags come with an elegant lining and an interesting interior layout. Of course, customers also want to see this in the photos. For these detailed shots, the bag can, in turn, be placed in a light tent. The front side is folded as far forward as possible so that as much of the interior as possible can be seen. With appropriate illumination, only the inlet of the bag should be photographed. Only the pocket opening may be visible as a border. With a little practice, perfect pocket shots can be made.
