As you know, at
Behind Pictures (a render studio in Barcelona), we
specialize in creating
renders for both architectural projects and products, which is why we are passionate about
studio lighting. Just as creating perfect lighting for a bathroom differs from lighting a conference room, there are also
major differences in studio lighting when illuminating a glass bottle versus a snow boot. In today’s article, we’ll explain
everything you need to know about studio lighting for product promotion.
Basic parameters for good studio lighting
When we talk about
studio lighting, we are really referring to controlling light sources to illuminate the scene. To
master studio lighting for product renders, you need to understand several basic concepts about light that make a difference in the final results. Here are three of the most important parameters:
- Contrast: In both renders and product photography, a low contrast is often preferred. This means the light sources should be large and close to the product, or shine from multiple angles simultaneously. The result is soft shadows, lightly defined, which don’t distract from the product.
- Color: White light is a mixture of the three primary colors (red, blue, and green) in equal proportions. Applying color psychology to light can make your product convey far more. For instance, red light increases tension and draws viewer attention, associated with concepts like seasonal changes, romance, sex, and food. Conversely, purple light gives the product a more luxurious and even exotic feel, as historically in Europe, purple is linked to wealth and royalty. Using color psychology in studio lighting helps viewers connect more emotionally and deeply with the product.
- Intensity: Also called power or brightness, it is one of the most important characteristics. To achieve the most perfect final image, the correct light intensity is essential. Adjusting intensity allows you to enhance contrasts, manipulate shadows (hard or soft), and completely change the product’s perceived character depending on your goals.
Steps to achieve the best studio lighting for your product
As mentioned,
lighting a render of a bathroom or a south-facing living room for a home renovation project is not the same as lighting a
render of a product for approval. Even within product renders,
not all can be lit the same way. Here are some general tips to make your studio lighting as perfect as possible. Pay attention: we’ll explain
the best studio lighting for a dark product on a dark background.
1. Start with the backlight
If your
product is dark and you’ve chosen a black background, the first step is to place a
light behind the product to outline its silhouette. Depending on how close the light is,
the edges around the product will appear thicker or thinner. Remember, moving the light to one side lets you play with shadows and illuminate only one side of the product, as well as eliminate unwanted reflections. Everything depends on your artistic vision!
Main light in studio lighting
Once the backlight is set, create the main light. If the backlight is on one side,
the main light should be on the same side at product level. You should
adjust values to achieve the desired amount and direction of light, ensuring all contours are soft.
Complementary light
After establishing the main light, it’s time for the complementary light. We recommend duplicating the main light and
placing it on the opposite side. Then,
tilt it slightly and position it slightly behind your product to illuminate the other side. If the edges remain too harsh,
increase the light’s width to soften them. Since this is complementary light,
lower the intensity so it isn’t as strong as the main light.
Lighting specific elements
Imagine your product is a beer bottle with perfectly lit contours. To make
the studio lighting flawless, you only need to illuminate the label, which may appear dark due to side shadows. Duplicate the main light again and place it in front of the bottle. As it is still complementary light,
reduce the intensity.
Behind Pictures, your render studio in Barcelona
If your product desperately needs
professional studio lighting, Behind Pictures is, without a doubt, the perfect
render studio in Barcelona for you. We will create images of your product considering all your needs, becoming the human and creative part of your project.
Contact us without obligation and share your idea! We’ll advise you and
create the most suitable studio lighting for your specific case to achieve the highest-quality results.
