Today I would like to share about how I photograph my crafts. Specifically, I wanted to talk about backgrounds. When taking pictures of my craft projects, I always like to have a complementing background. It adds another dimension to the photograph and can make the picture as a whole more interesting. Below are a few examples of backgrounds that I like to use for my pictures. You'll notice that they are all things you can find around your house.* I'm by no means a photography expert and don't pretend to be. This is just what works for me when it comes to taking pictures of my projects. Take it for what it's worth.
Nature: Often I like to place items in trees, on the grass, and in the sand. I photographed this bluebird card in a tree by my house.
Table linens: In this case I used a table runner. I often use placemats, tablecloths and fabric napkins as well.
Clothing: This is one of my favorite backgrounds to use, clothing. And it doesn't just stop at my closet, I use my husband's and kid's clothing as well. The background in the picture above is one of my skirts. You'll notice that I coordinated the color of the ribbon and button to the fabric. When done right, it can really complement your subject.
Baskets: I like using baskets and wood floors for backgrounds because they give that zakka feel. If you've ever looked through a zakka craft book, you might have noticed that many of the pictures are taken on wooden tables and floors. Which brings me to another tip, see what others are doing. Look through your craft books and magazines for inspiration. Have fun.
16 comments:
nice, like the basket look.
Excellent post. I always photograph my things on my wooden table, but I can see now variety is good, and much more interesting. Thanks for the insight.
I have to say you are sooo beautiful in your photos, it makes me wonder how old you are.
Thank you for sharing!
I just went to a workshop for taking better photos for etsy, and backgrounds are always a tough part for me.
You didn't mention my favourite background trick - scrapbook papers! There are endless patterns and colors in your paper pile.
That's really useful, thanks! Photography is something I really need to work on for my blog.
yes, I love taking objects with nice backgrounds too. I need to improve on how to zoom and capture enough light for the object.
I stumbled upon your blog today and I just looove it! Very inspiring! I saw that you lived in hawaii too. I'm from Hawaii too!
These are great tips, Thanks! Whenever I use fabric as a backdrop I realise that I have to iron it! Fabric is one of my favourites though. The basket also looks great, a lovely clean backdrop for the tactile felt. Gorgeous!
Thank you for the great tips! I often like to photograph my yarn for Ravelry on top of a white wicker chest in my well-lit sunroom (well-lit, except when it's overcast outside). I love taking pics outdoors in a natural garden setting, but it never crossed my mind to use fabric as a background, indoors. I've laid items on my bed's quilt, but I have a ton of fabrics I could use for backgrounds, now that I have that nifty idea! ;-)
Hey Thanks! I never even thought about taking pictures using those backgrounds. I always just take mine outside on the sidewalk because my camera doesn't do indoor lighting very well. (doesn't help that I live in a cave =) Great ideas. Now, maybe my outdoor pics can look more indoors!
Thanks for this tips, they are very useful for me!
Cheers.
These are really great tips, thanks for sharing!
i was stunned by your photo....you llok like a doll =)
Great post. These are excellent tips. I never would have thought about a basket, but I am always using wood. Thanks!
Anna
Fab. This single post is better than anything that the Etsy authors have posted on Storque. I try to do as many pics as I can outside, however, living in Oregon, that limits my photo taking opportunities to about twice a winter... :) Thanks for the additional ideas!!!
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