Using a Model

I've recently been working on my product shots, taking pictures on various textures and with props. Part of this has meant adding some pictures with a model. I was lucky enough to meet Sumner of SpottedDogFarm jewelry here in Asheville who has graciously stepped in as a model for me. Really, she couldn't be better! Her gorgeous red curls keep the cute redhead look going for my work and her excellent personality shines in each picture.

The photo shoot was a great success and I have been so happy with everything we got! I wanted to share with you one of the before and after pictures from the day to show what a difference editing photos can be for products.

 Sumner has a fantastic personality and is incredibly beautiful, but shadows can make you look a lot more care-worn in a picture than you appear in person and I wanted her to look as fresh as possible while also giving my pieces that extra oomph to really pop and be eye-catching. Above is the before and after of a shot for my Sherlock Holmes Bookmark. Most of what I did was lighten and soften the image, but I did do some airbrushing on her face to bring out her eyes a bit more.

I think these simple edits make a huge difference in how click-able the image is which is exactly what is needed for product shots.It's important to really see the potential in the photograph when taking shots for products rather than just focusing on how good the shot is while it's rough.

I feel extremely fortunate to have been blessed with such a gorgeous model! 

Wondering what photo editing software I use? I use GIMP which you can download for free for your own use.  

Interested in reading more about product shots with models? Artisans Gallery is writing about them this month.