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How to Do a Glassware Shoot

When a photographer steps into a studio, they have complete control over all elements of the image they are about to produce. From controlling the angle, density and color of the light, to where and how they will place the items they are about to shoot. Before any shoot, a photographer will plan out, either in his mind or on a piece of paper, how the shoot will be laid out. Shooting glassware is no different.

Things You'll Need

Table or display shelves
Studio lights
Sync cord

Instructions

- 1
  Decide on a display method. Whether you choose to place the glassware on a table top or a series of elevated shelves, take into consideration the different dimensions of each item. You may want to lay out the glassware based on size or shape. However you choose to display the glassware is up to you -- just keep it interesting.
- 2
  Group the glassware by different colors if you are shooting a number of different pieces. This can be particularly effective when it comes to lighting the glassware. Grouping by color and carefully placing your light source will create interesting reflections.
- 3
  Position three studio lights, either strobe or continuous lights, around the glassware display. This is where you can become very creative. Depending on the glassware you are photographing, it may produce some interesting reflections. By positioning your lights at different angles, you will be able to direct the reflections toward the other glassware items in your display or toward the backdrop. Be creative and try different positions for your studio lights.
- 4
  Connect the studio lights sync cord to you camera and begin shooting. Try shooting from different angles and using different lenses, or adjust the zoom lens on your camera and shoot at different focal lengths.

Photography