There is a huge number of entrepreneurs in Nigeria and not every one of them can take a detailed picture of what they sell such that it can catch the eyes of customers which can in turn influence their purchasing decisions.
Product Photographers are individuals who take pictures of products or items in such a way that highlights the features, aesthetics, and functionality. The pictures of these product(s) can be taken with a mobile phone or camera. With any of these devices, you can create any type of product picture for marketing, e-commerce, advertising, etc
Where can a product photographer work?
A product photographer can work in different places and, at the same time, work freelance. But, if they will work for an employer/organization, it could be:
- Fashion stores (Shoes/Clothes)
- Restaurants and Bars
- Advertising Agencies
- Jewelry stores and so on.
On the flip side, if they want to be freelancers, they can work for multiple people at once. Today, they may be taking pictures of new accessories an entrepreneur just stocked and tomorrow, they can be hired to take pictures of food/snacks (for a business owner who sells these things).
The many pictures of different items that you see and want to purchase immediately are because of how well these products were presented in a picture. So, it is safe to say that product photographers are “marketing guys” too.
What do I need to become a product photographer?
Only a very “Creative” person can become a product photographer because the pictures must always look good and inviting. The good part of being a product photographer is that you don’t even need a camera if you have a very good phone (say iPhone, Samsung, Google Pixels) and enough light.
Many product photographers do not have a camera but a good phone and it works. So, if you fall into this category, there is no need to panic that you don’t have a camera. Other requirements for a product photographer include the following:
- Have a good eye for details. (You don’t want to leave out important features of a product)
- Be “borderline” creative.
- You must be very patient ( Best believe you have to take multiple pictures. ( because you need to be satisfied )
- Image editing skill is compulsory. (You can’t always use or deliver the pictures in their raw form because edits make them better)
Making money as a product photographer
Product photography is a very good skill and while there are several entrepreneurs, especially in Nigeria, not all of them can take a good picture of the products they sell. So, they want to invest in hiring product photographers.
Having multiple streams of income is the best way to really make money from product photography. If you work for an organization, that’s good and almost perfect but you can also scout for other businesses and entrepreneurs who will be willing to work with you.
Pitch yourself, show them the previous works you’ve done and where they have been used. Good pictures are food for the eyes; so, if they like what they see, they can decide to work with you. Mind you, it is important that you reach out to several of them because not every potential client may need your services immediately. The more businesses and entrepreneurs you connect with, the higher the chances of finding the ones that need your services.
If you are thinking about what you need to start your product photography journey, you don’t even need much:
- A camera/ a good phone
- Enough light
- Props/backdrops
These items are few and can help you to start off immediately. Don’t sleep on your “badass” photography skills, make some money!
