The global skincare industry is valued at $135.83 billion and is estimated to reach $196.20 billion by 2030. Therefore, you will have numerous opportunities to procure photography gigs and editorial projects.
Skincare photography focuses on capturing aesthetic images of skincare products (toners, cleansers, face masks, and more.) and close-ups of models. So, you need to make the image captivating to gain customers’ interest.
Moreover, your pictures should communicate with the target audience, showing them the results they can achieve using the advertised product.
However, there are particular challenges you would have to face in skincare product photography, but you can certainly overcome them with the tips mentioned in this blog. So, let’s get started!
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Tips for Capturing Skincare Product Photography
01. Think About Product Placement
Product placement is the secret behind capturing a good photograph. As the product is the show’s star, you have to ensure that it is placed right in the center of the set.
Most DSLR cameras have a “rule of thirds” grid. Use this feature to see whether or not your muse is correctly positioned. You need to ensure that the subject appears on camera where two lines intersect with each other.
Moreover, you have to ensure that the product does not appear flat. To counteract this issue, place the items at an angle. For example, you can use the packaging box and prop the product against it.
02. Improve Composition
Photography composition is aesthetically arranging different elements of your photograph. These elements are not the main subject of your image, but they are used for artistry.
So, you need to fill the negative spaces to prevent your subject from blending in with the background. In addition, try multiple angles to leverage diagonal lines and declutter the background by only including essential items in the shoot.
03. Experiment with Colors, Patterns, and Textures
Colorful and vibrant backdrops will quickly capture the attention of your audience. That is why you should be well acquainted with color theory and know how to use each color to your advantage.
Another tip is to avoid backgrounds that match the color of the product packaging. For skincare products, the best colors are the lighter shades of green and blue, along with variations of white.
04. Try Out Different Lighting
By manipulating the lighting, you can achieve texture, vibrancy, and luminosity in your pictures. Natural light is a great lighting source, but it is hard to manipulate. Therefore, it is better to take your studio lights to the shoot.
Ring lights are the best lighting equipment for photoshoots as they give off soft, even lighting. As a result, the subject has fewer blemishes and hard shadows. You can also use softbox lighting to minimize harsh shadows.
05. Use Vibrant Backdrops
Backdrops in photography are used to highlight the model or subject better. However, a poorly chosen backdrop makes the image cluttered, amateur, and distracting. So, invest in a vibrant colored backdrop that either contrasts or blends with the shoot’s theme. A good backdrop is a long-term investment that will help you in multiple projects.
06. Play with Textures
Textures in photography can highlight unique patterns, increase visual interest, and evoke emotions in the viewer. But you have to play carefully with the textures to ensure they are compatible with the product packaging. You can use textured backdrops or fabrics that look softer in the image.
07. Use Mirrors
Mirrors or reflective surfaces can conceal unwanted elements present in the shoot. In addition, they can enhance the visual appeal of the product.
For example, you can stage a scene where the model is applying the skin care product while looking in the mirror or simply use the mirror to reflect light onto the product. You can also place the mirror in a specific way to show the product from multiple directions.
08. Try Out Different Angles and Heights
Instead of focusing on the standard angle, take the shot from different viewpoints. This way, you can include movement and depth in a picture. You can even change the height of the product to make it more pronounced. Place a box or wood board to elevate the product. It will improve the display and texture of your photographs.
What Are The Challenges of Skincare Product Shoot?
Even if you are a good skincare photographer, you are bound to experience some challenges on the shoot. Let’s discuss the most common problems in skincare photographs and the tips to overcome them.
01. Capturing Reflective Surfaces
Most skincare products, such as creams and serums, come in glass or plastic jars that have a sparkle and gloss. These materials are good to look at from the naked eye but are a nightmare to capture in a picture as they reflect light.
So, to capture these products, place the light source beside or behind the product. This can prevent the glare and reflections from negatively affecting the shoot. Then, use bounce cards (mirror or silver cardboard) to direct the glare of the light away from the subject.
02. Photographing Products with Mixed Packaging
Skincare product packaging comes in every size and color. Sometimes, the packaging is in two different colors. For instance, one package may be lighter while the other may be darker.
Since each color absorbs a different light level, you need to readjust the lighting constantly to ensure you don’t lose important details. You can solve this issue by adjusting the contrast level and using a good lighting system.
03. Shooting Models
In most skincare shoots, you have to work with models to show how a product looks during and after application. However, everyone has a different skin complexion and texture, which may not appear the way you want in pictures.
Moreover, if you are using two models, you must adjust the photo for two different skin types. To overcome this, you can improve your close-ups by using macro lenses. Then, edit the image to adjust the contrast and smoothen the skin texture.
04. Water Splashes
Water splashes are used to induce the feeling of freshness, hydration, and cleanliness in the customers. Unfortunately, you cannot control the water to take the right shot, as you need to perfectly time the splash.
To do this, you should position or glue the product in the position you want. Then, use speedlights to illuminate each water droplet. Set your camera to burst mode so it takes multiple pictures in one go. This way, you will get various images to choose from.
Moreover, ensure that you have the right equipment on hand. To avoid water damage, you can also cover up your equipment with the right protective gear, such as plastic shields.
05. Smudges and Smears
In some shoots, you will also have to photograph the smears and smudges of the products, such as photographing a smudge of cleanser or strategically placed drops of toner. Your challenge will be to beautify and show the texture of the smudges and smears.
You should use a tripod to take a focused shot from an elevated angle. Combine this with a slow shutter speed camera feature to capture the right texture of skincare product smudges.
Why Become a Skincare Photographer?
Skincare product shoot is an exciting subfield of professional photography. You can combine technology with creativity to shoot masterpieces as a skincare photographer.
Additionally, by perfecting the skincare photography niche, you can land high-paying clients, as the industry is expanding rapidly. You can also work with models and top brands and earn a good living from this profession. Moreover, you can inspire people to buy products and take care of their skin with the power of your artistic photography.
How to Market Skincare Photography?
You can market your skincare product photography business by using these tips:
- Create a website for your skincare photography business
- Make a business profile on social media platforms (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook) and Google My Business (GMB)
- Upload your portfolio
- Share sneak peeks of events you are covering
- Make creative product photography for skincare tutorials to establish authority in the industry
- Partner up with makeup influencers and wellness brands to increase your reach
- Collaborate with industry professionals to build a reputation
- Encourage clients to provide referrals
- Attend photography events and skincare product launches to form connections with potential clients
Taking these initiatives will help you build a reputation as a skincare photographer.
How Much Can You Charge as A Skincare Product Photographer?
The Creative skincare photography charges vary based on the project and the number of shots. However, on average, you can charge around $170 per hour.
| Skincare Photography Project | Charges |
| Per hour | $20 to $500 |
| Per day | $400 to $1000 |
| Per product | $20 to $100 |
| Per image | $1 to $50 |
Wrapping Up
The field of skincare product photography has seen new job opportunities since the industry is expanding around the globe. As a skincare photographer, you can work with brands, models, and influencers.
However, if you want to improve your skills and overcome the challenges you mostly face in skincare shoots, focus on product placement, color contrast, backdrops, and textures. You can also invest in good equipment to easily take complicated technical shots.