The Top 3 Mistakes Clients Make in Product Photography Briefs
We recently sat down with a professional product photographer Anton Matiukha to uncover the most common mistakes clients make when providing briefs for product or food photography. Here’s what we learned:
First Mistake: No Brief at All
One of the most common mistakes clients make is not providing a brief at all. Without a clear brief, photographers and creative teams are left to guess what the client wants, often leading to misunderstandings and unsatisfactory results. A well-prepared brief is crucial for ensuring that everyone involved understands the project’s goals and expectations.
Second Mistake: Lack of Clear Objectives
When a business needs content, it is essential to understand the function of that content. Is it meant to sell, tell a story, or provide information? To align expectations with the final output, the goal of the content must be known in advance. Looking at examples from major brands, it’s clear that the same photo does not serve multiple roles. There are creative shots designed to draw attention and make people want to explore the product or service closer, followed by detailed photos that highlight the product’s features. Knowing the purpose of each piece of content ensures it meets its intended role effectively.
Third Mistake: Not Understanding the Target Audience
For content to sell effectively, it’s crucial to understand your target audience (TA) and what appeals to them. Different audiences have different needs, and what works for one group might not work for another. Therefore, creating a brief should start with researching your audience. This ensures the content is tailored to their preferences and increases the chances of success.
Choosing the Right Photographer:
What to Consider Portfolio Review
Firstly, always review the photographer’s portfolio. Keep in mind that it might not showcase all their work. If you like their style, ask if they have experience in your niche. If your product is unique or the photographer hasn’t worked with it before, it’s a good idea to conduct a test shoot. This helps both parties understand the specifics of shooting your product. You will either align with the photographer’s vision or realize you need to find someone else who better matches your expectations.
Benefits of Working with a Specialist Product Photographer
Passion for Product Photography
A photographer who enjoys shooting products will approach the task with dedication, meticulousness, and passion. They will consult with you about the shoot, bringing their experience to suggest how best to present your product. Specialized photographers can quickly and effectively address your needs, thanks to their focused expertise in the field.
Consultation and Expertise
An experienced product photographer will have a clear understanding of how to present your product in the most appealing way. Their specialized skills mean they can provide valuable insights and suggestions that can significantly enhance the final output.
Efficiency and Quality
Like any field, the more specialized the professional, the quicker and better they can resolve issues. A specialist product photographer can deliver high-quality results efficiently, ensuring your product is showcased at its best.
By avoiding these common mistakes and choosing the right photographer, businesses can significantly improve the effectiveness of their product photography, leading to better engagement and sales.
know more insights from Anton on LinkedIn
