Boost Your Product Photos with These 5 Essential Composition Tips

Product photography is a crucial aspect of any business, especially for those that rely heavily on e-commerce platforms. Images have the power to influence potential buyers’ perception of a product, making it essential to capture the best possible shots. While product photography involves careful lighting, props and backdrops, composition is crucial in creating exceptional images. Your product's positioning in the frame will determine how well they communicate with your audience. In this blog post, we'll discuss five composition techniques that will elevate your product photography and make it stand out from the rest.

1. The Rule of Thirds

One of the most commonly used compositional techniques is the rule of thirds. Note that this rule is just a guideline. You don’t need to abide by it 100% of the time but if you are a beginner it’s a great starting point.

With the rule of thirds, imagine your frame is divided up into nine equal parts. Most cameras will have a grid feature in their live view – including smartphones. The aim is to make sure your most important elements are placed at one of the four intersecting gridlines.

The theory is that it creates a more balanced photo and it allows the viewer to interact with the image more naturally. There are many studies showing that people’s eyes tend to go to one of these intersection points first rather than straight to the middle.

2. The Rule of Odds

In the rule of odds, odd numbers such as three or five are used to create a sense of balance and harmony in the composition. If you have more, try to group them in odd numbers whenever possible. This compositional technique works on a subconscious level and is not only used by photographers but also frequently employed by interior designers, florists and decorators. 

3. The Rule of Lines

Lines serve as visual pathways that guide the viewer's gaze towards the product within the frame of an image. They can take the form of diagonal, horizontal, vertical, or converging lines, each creating a distinct impact on the overall composition. In order to lead the viewer's attention to the hero product, a variety of items can be employed, including the packaging itself or accompanying props such as flowers, plants, or cutlery.

4. The Golden Triangle

The golden triangle is an advanced compositional rule that divides the photo's frame into triangular sections. The focal point is at the intersection of lines, enhancing engagement. Unlike the Rule of Thirds, the Golden Triangle adds a strong diagonal element with leading lines that draw the human eye towards the focal point.

5. The Golden Ratio

The golden ratio is a mathematical proportion that has been used for centuries in art and architecture. In photography, it involves composing an image so that the ratio of the smaller part to the larger part is equal to the ratio of the larger part to the whole. The golden ratio creates an aesthetically pleasing image by balancing the various components of a photograph. It works especially well for emphasizing a portion of an image, such as a unique product feature.

To apply the Golden Ratio to your product photography simply place your item at the end of the spiral, such as the bowl above. Within the large arc as it spirals out from the focal point, position all supporting elements.  Any supporting elements outside the arc would divert viewers' attention, resulting in an unsatisfying image.

In conclusion, as a product photographer, composition plays a vital role in capturing the best possible images. Utilizing these five composition techniques can make all the difference in creating visual appeal in your product photography. By keeping the rule of thirds, rule of odds, rule of lines, golden triangle, and golden ratio in mind, you can create stunning images that grab the viewer's attention and position your product in the best light possible. Just remember, practice makes perfect, so take some time to experiment with these techniques and see what works best for you. 

Here at Cubie Props, we strive to provide high-quality materials to help you up your photography game. From props to curtains to mirrors and backdrops — shop our latest trending photography gear to ensure your compositions captivate your audience every time.

Happy snapping!