Top angle is often called the birds-eye-view. It isn’t always necessary, but it does provide more context for shoppers depending, again, on the product.
Back angle is a key supporting shot in product photography, such as this example of the back of an Xbox. Source: Walmart.com.
45-degree angle refers to the position of the camera from the product. It’s also called the three-quarter angle. A 45-degree shot is most often used for food photography, but it’s helpful for many other items, too.
Viewpoints
A top-angle shot can be difficult to pull off — the camera is directly above the product. Place your camera in an elevated C-stand, and then connect the camera to a computer. A nice Matthews 40” C Stand from B&H Photo costs about 3. Impact, Kupo, and GVM also make quality C-stands at similar prices.
- Low shots are taken from a position beneath the subject to establish its power in the photo. Low shots work well with lifestyle and in-context shots.
- Eye-level shots are taken straight-on to provide a view of a product from the level of a human eye. Most product photography is eye-level.
- High shots are taken from an elevated position looking down on the subject.
Angles
Macro angle shot displays the fine details of products and requires special equipment. This image is of an Adidas sandal. Source: Adidas.com.
Front angle is the default image of most ecommerce photos because it’s the best for quickly informing shoppers, showing the main features of a product. A front-angle shot should be enticing while also providing enough detail for shoppers to understand the product.
Front angle is the default image of most ecommerce photos, such as this example of an Xbox. Source: Walmart.com.
Profile angle is taken from the side of a product. It’s helpful for certain items, such as this sandal from Adidas. Source: Adidas.com.
In this installment, I’ll review the best angles for product photography and the viewpoints to pair them. Let’s start with the viewpoints — the position of the camera relative to a product.
Take profile shots at eye level using a quality white background and a steady tripod, as with front angles.
Take profile shots at eye level using a quality white background and a steady tripod, as with front angles.
Take profile shots at eye level using a quality white background and a steady tripod, as with front angles.
Take profile shots at eye level using a quality white background and a steady tripod, as with front angles.
Take profile shots at eye level using a quality white background and a steady tripod, as with front angles.
Angles matter in product photography. They expose details of products, helping shoppers make informed decisions. Plus, shoppers who cannot see the particulars of a product will not likely buy it.
Top-angle shots are taken directly above the product. This example shows the top view of an Xbox and its controller. Source: Walmart.com.
