When did you join the Ellison team?
I joined the Ellison team in August 2018.
What is your role and what does it entail?
My job role is an Interactive Media Designer. I undertake the photography and video aspects for all Ellison brands.
Do you have any top tips for photographing products?
Lighting is key, use it to your advantage. You can change the look and feel of an image by manipulating the light. With the combination of lighting techniques and camera settings you can achieve many outcomes that are perfect for photographing products. Always take your time and ensure the light is creating your desired effect.
What are your three ‘must have’ tools for a successful shoot?
A white reflector or a large piece of white board can really alter a shot so that’s a definite must. A good all round lens, such as a 24-70mm (it captures with great quality no matter what focal length you work at). And, finally an easy portable light, such as the Profoto B1. This is a battery powered light and is easy to change the soft boxes or attachments.
Do you have any photographer you look to for inspiration?
In my personal work I’ve always enjoyed photographers such as Tim Walker and Kirsty Mitchell. Their photography is a work of art and they spend months prepping for just one shot. With product photography I normally go to social media for inspiration, Instagram is always particularly useful.
Describe your post-process of a shoot and what tools you use.
I try to create as much as I can in camera, but afterwards I always edit in Photoshop. I usually use this program to clean the image up, extend backgrounds or clone in props.
If you could only have one lens for the rest of your life, which would you choose and why?
I do love my 85mm 1.2 but, it’s not amazing for an all-round lens and being a prime lens, it means you’re fixed at 85mm. I’d have to go back to question four and again say the 24-70mm, it’s a great all round lens and creates brilliant quality imagery.
