Artistic product photography and commercial product photography serve different purposes, each type has its own approaches and aesthetics. In this article, we’ll go over the key differences between these two types of product photography:
1. Purpose:
- Art Product Photography:
Artistic product photography is comparable to any other form of art, but through the lens of a camera. Its primary goal is to capture persuasive and aesthetically looking images that connect emotionally with the observer, stimulate contemplation, or tell a story. Here, creativity and innovation are prioritized over commercial considerations.
- Commercial Product Photography:
In contrast, commercial product photography is primarily focused on promoting and selling products. It showcases products in a clear, attractive, and informative way, with the goal to persuade consumers to make a purchase.
2. Technical Considerations:
- Art Product Photography:
Photographers may use a wide range of photographic techniques, equipment, and post-processing methods to manifest their artistic vision.
In artistic product photography, prioritizing emotional connection, impact and experience becomes a priority over technical perfection.
- Commercial Product Photography:
Photographers seek technical perfection to ensure that products are accurately represented. This includes proper lighting, composition, color accuracy, material, and image resolution to meet client requirements and platform specifics.
In this type of photography, the primary focus remains on the product, even when models or props are incorporated in the composition. Every aspect of the product must look sharp and precise, meeting rigorous technical requirements.
3. Creative Freedom:
- Art Product Photography:
Photographers enjoy a greater level of creative freedom. They may experiment with unconventional techniques, compositions, and styles not commonly seen in commercial photography, resulting in unique and expressive images.
- Commercial Product Photography:
Photographers strictly follow the pre-approved shot list and branding guidelines, to ensure predictable and successful results.
Creativity is still valued; however, the primary goal is to capture images that effectively showcase the product details and align with the client's marketing strategy.
In this photography style, the product assumes the central role, with additional elements like models or props playing a supportive role to enhance the image without detracting from its focal point.
4. Audience:
- Art Product Photography:
The audience for artistic product photography may include art enthusiasts, collectors, and people interested in visual storytelling. These images may be exhibited in galleries, published in art books, or showcased in online art platforms.
- Commercial Product Photography:
On the contrary, the target audience for commercial product photography consists of potential consumers.
Commercial product images are meant to be used in a wide variety of marketing channels such as marketplaces, websites, printed advertisements, social media, and product packaging, with the intention to persuade consumers, boost sales, and enhance brand recognition.
5. Branding Focus:
- Art Product Photography:
Branding elements may be incorporated, however, the emphasis in artistic product photography typically lies on artistic expressions rather than promoting a specific brand or product.
- Commercial Product Photography:
A strong emphasis is placed on branding. Images must accurately represent the brand identity, values, and product features to maintain brand consistency and reinforce brand image.
In conclusion, artistic photography emphasizes creativity and emotional connection, while commercial photography targets consumers and promotes brand identity. Whether you seek compelling storytelling or effective sales promotion, contact us today for your product photography needs.