Gradient Lighting for Product Photography

Get to grips with gradients and achieve professional-quality product shots.

There are many different lighting techniques you can use in product photography. One of the most powerful is gradient lighting. This amazing technique enables you to control reflections in glossy surfaces, making products look more luxurious.

In this class, you’ll take a closer look at gradient lighting, discovering the effect it has on gloss- and matte-textured products. You’ll learn how to achieve gorgeous gradients using diffusion paper and affordable DIY modifiers such as scrims and light cones.

By the end of the class, you’ll be ready to create pro-level lighting effects and make products look truly irresistible!

In this class:

  • Lighting tips for product photography
  • How to photography glossy products
  • How to create gradient lighting
  • How to use a scrim
  • Using diffusion material for product photography

If you enjoy this class, check out Electric Guitar Product Photography.

For a simple way to shoot shiny products like a pro, try the Karl Taylor Light Cone.

Questions? Please post them in the comments section below.

Comments

  1. Why do we put black tape around the wooden frame? I made one exactly like this, but with white edges so the reflection doesn’t show up on the perfume cap, for example, if it’s reflective. I also have another question: I made a wooden frame like this, measuring just one meter by one meter. Will it serve the same purpose for photographing products and create the same gradation? Or do you recommend making a larger frame? Thank you, creative person.

    1. Hi, white tape around the frame is just as good! A 1m x 1m is good for many small products but sometimes you need bigger. But also remember you don’t always need a frame you can just hang the scrim straight from the roll using a C-stand.

  2. Hi Karl, I have learned lots of new skills in the last several months since I subscribed thank you. What size of arm are you using on that grip, and what brand is it? I own Kupo 40″ Hex Grip Arm with Big Handle. I would like a large rod without the grip, any a suggestion. Thanks

  3. SaraFdez

    Hi Karl
    Can’t you just use diffusers (those that come in the 5-1 reflectors) to create the same gradient effect?

    1. Hi, some of them you can if the fabric is good. Others the fabric weave doesn’t give a good highlight reflection in the product and it can end up looking like a ‘starburst’ highlight.

        1. Hi, great let us know how you get on. I mostly use LEE 216 diffusor or sheets of white opal acrylic as you will see in some of our other classes.

  4. Hi, these videos are so good and clear!! which light reflector would you recommend and not to expensive?

  5. wowwww… Finally a teacher who teaches amazing tools and insights! Most of the people I know will not share such valuable information!!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart, dear Karl, for the generosity and professionalism you share with us!

  6. Thank you so much for this video, Karl! I’ve been shooting glossy products with a few softboxes hoping it would help me manage the reflective parts of the products, but in vain. This video was a real eye-opener and I’m super excited to get my hands on some diffusion filter and build my own scrim as soon as possible!

  7. maria.cristina.ene

    Hi Karl
    Thank you so much for your videos! This one specifically has cleared up so many questions for me!

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