Angle
A degree at which the camera is facing towards the product. The most common angles in product photography are straight-on, 3/4, from the back, and a close-up.
Backdrop
A physical background that is used to customize an image. E.g. color backdrops, backdrops mimicking materials, such as marble, wood, etc.
Color correction
The process of altering the shades, hues, and saturation of the product in the post-production stage to match the desired look. Not to be confused with Recoloring.
Focus stacking
Shooting multiple images at the same angle with different focus points, which are combined together in retouching. This produces sharp images of objects across multiple axis points.
Ghost mannequin shot
An image of a product, usually clothing, on a mannequin. The mannequin is erased in retouching, while providing volume and shape to the product. The shot is usually stitched from multiple images of the outer and inner parts.
Image consistency
When all your product images across collections and platforms share a set of pre-established guidelines, such as margins, lighting, and proportions.
Image quality
The quality of an image is defined by how realistically it translates color, showcases its key attributes – form, physical characteristics, material, and meets technical requirements – resolution, framing/margins and correct file format.
Product image
The thing without which e-commerce doesn't exist.
Product photography
A reflection of a product, not its reinvention.
Reference
An image that acts as a guideline for a creative team of lighting, color, styling or any other visual characteristics.
Shadows
Not to mix up with reflections. Shadows can be natural and artifical. Natural shadows are created during the shooting stage. Artifical shadows are added in the post-production stage.
Squareshot
A product photography service with streamlined processes, transparent pricing and communication
Swatch
An applied sample of a product (usually beauty or home products) on a surface. Used to demonstrate the texture, color, or viscosity of packaged products.
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