Evolution of My Photography: From Basics to Innovative Rigging Techniques
My journey into photography started at Under Armour, where I had my first real job. Initially, I didn’t expect to use my film studies background, but when the footwear department needed someone to shoot catalog shots of shoes, I volunteered. It turned out I had a knack for it, and soon, it became my full-time job. Transitioning to the design team, I began taking high-end marketing shots, setting the stage for my deep dive into product photography.
Early Work and Challenges
In the beginning, I worked in a small, black-painted closet with a white table covered in cloth, some mirrors, and a couple of hot lights. The room would heat up to 100 degrees, but it was there that I learned the basics of making shoes look good. Initially, I used blocks and fishing wire to position shoes, but these methods were time-consuming and lacked precision. Photoshop became my best friend, helping me correct imperfections that couldn’t be managed in the shoot itself.
Need for Sophisticated Techniques
The push for more sophisticated rigging techniques came from a need for consistency. My boss challenged me to find a way to ensure every shoe was shot at the exact same angle. This was critical for maintaining a consistent brand look, especially for campaigns. The old methods, while useful, were slow and imprecise. We needed a way to make our work more efficient and consistent.
Innovation with 3D Printing and Magic Arms
To meet this challenge, we started incorporating 3D printing. We created custom foot forms and used hex rods to maintain consistent angles. Magic arms became a crucial tool, allowing us to adjust and lock positions quickly. This setup drastically improved our efficiency, enabling us to shoot numerous shoes rapidly while maintaining a high level of consistency.
Current Setup
Today, our rigging setup includes a mix of magic arms, 3D-printed parts, and simple tools like acrylic cubes and marked tabletops. We use 3D-printed angled parts to hold shoes perfectly, ensuring we capture every detail. This combination allows us to achieve hyper-consistent angles and lighting, essential for high-quality product photography. Our rigging techniques have made us invaluable to clients, enabling us to deliver top-notch results quickly.
Advice for Aspiring Photographers
For those looking to improve their rigging and product photography techniques, I have a few pieces of advice:
Innovate Continuously: Don’t settle for traditional methods. Experiment with new tools and techniques. Incorporate 3D printing, use magic arms, and always look for ways to improve efficiency.
Think Ahead: Consider how your setup affects post-production. The better your rigging, the less you’ll need to rely on Photoshop.
Value Consistency: A consistent look is crucial for brand identity. Develop setups that allow you to replicate shots precisely, ensuring your work maintains a professional and cohesive appearance.
Use What You Have: Don’t feel you need the most expensive equipment to create stunning photos. Some of my favorite shots were done with simple tools like a flashlight or tube light for light painting. Creativity often trumps equipment.
Stay Flexible: Be prepared for situations where you don’t have all the tools you need. Adaptability is key to success in photography.
By pushing yourself to innovate and refine your techniques, you can achieve great results and stand out in the competitive field of product photography.
