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The Ultimate Guide to Product Photography Lighting
Master lighting to create professional-looking product shots with any camera.
Lighting can make or break your product photos. You don’t need expensive gear to get pro-level results—just the right technique.
**1. Use Soft, Diffused Light**
Harsh light creates shadows. Use a lightbox, softbox, or simply shoot near a window with sheer curtains to diffuse sunlight.
**2. Understand Light Position**
Place light sources at a 45-degree angle for depth and dimension. Avoid direct front-lighting which can flatten the image.
**3. Avoid Mixed Light Sources**
Using daylight and warm bulbs together can create odd color tones. Stick to one light temperature.
**4. Use Reflectors**
White foam boards or aluminum foil can bounce light back onto the product, reducing harsh shadows.
**5. Experiment with Backgrounds**
Lighting interacts with backgrounds. A dark background with proper lighting makes bright products pop—and vice versa.
**Pro Tip:** Use your smartphone camera with manual settings apps to control exposure and white balance for best results.
Whether you're a home-based seller or building a brand, good lighting is your best low-cost investment.