Master the fundamentals and advanced techniques of product photography using tabletop setups. Returning photographer and educator Don Giannatti presents a comprehensive workshop on tabletop lighting, essential tools, DIY equipment solutions, and professional shoot organization. Don progresses from foundational tabletop product photography concepts through advanced applications using specialized lighting equipment like kicker lights, snoots, and grid reflectors to elevate your results to professional standards.
Lesson structure by day:
Day One Topics
- Workshop Opening and Overview
- Introducing Tabletop Photography Fundamentals
- Tabletop Photography Q&A and Discussion
- Advanced Tabletop Photography Concepts
- Practical Lighting Setups and Implementation Techniques
- Building and Creating DIY Lighting Tools
Day Two Topics
- Purpose and Application of Tabletop Product Photography
- Distinguishing Product Photography from Still Life Approaches
- Product versus Still Life Q&A and Discussion
- Tabletop Setup Fundamentals and Essential Gear
- Equipment and Setup Q&A and Troubleshooting
- Strategic Lighting Considerations and Implementation
- General Photography and Business Q&A
- Hands-on Shoot: Wine Bottle Photography
- Hands-on Shoot: Jewelry Photography, Part One
- Hands-on Shoot: Jewelry Photography, Part Two
- Professional Practices and Business Considerations Q&A
Day Three Topics
- Creating Dimensional Photography Through Lighting
- Creating Dimension Q&A and Discussion
- Solving Challenges of Highly Reflective Surfaces
- Managing Diverse Surface Materials and Finishes
- Hands-on Shoot: Makeup and Brush Photography
- Composing Images to Specific Design Layouts
- Student Photography Sessions, Part One
- Student Photography Sessions, Part Two
- Post-Processing Techniques: Adding Missing Details in Photoshop
- Communicating Professional Value and Pricing
Day Four Topics
- Contemporary Challenges in Product and Still Life Photography
- Demonstration Shoot: Shoe Product Photography
- Professional Bidding and Pricing Strategy Q&A
- Building a Sensible and Practical Gear Collection
- Hands-on Shoot: Multifaceted Guitar Lighting with Layered Lighting
- Advanced Post-Production: Compositing Guitar Lighting Layers in Photoshop
- Drop and Pop Product Photography Technique
- Featured Shoot: Motorcycle Product Photography
- Professional Practices and Final Q&A and Relief Cut Shoot
- Establishing Your Professional Product Photography Business, Part One
- Establishing Your Professional Product Photography Business, Part Two
