Some photographers make a good living out of specializing in beverage photography, but many of these pros — who generously share their techniques on YouTube — do so using the best of equipment, so it might seem a little intimidating for a beginner. If you're curious about how to get professional-looking product images using some basic equipment, however, look no further than this tutorial.
Coming to you from Dustin Dolby of the YouTube channel workphlo is this typically well-presented and helpful tutorial about how to shoot a clean and crisp vodka bottle image using just two speedlights and some other affordable studio photography tools. As is the case with all of Dolby's other superb how-to videos, he first gives us a brief overview of his equipment before going about the shoot, peppering the tutorial with quality tricks for getting the most out of the small setup. Because he is using just two speedlights, he leaves one for the background, as he takes multiple exposures with the other with the intent of blending them together in Photoshop later. My favorite tip is his method for getting a beautiful, magical glow on the label using only a couple of sheets of white paper — it really must be seen to be believed.
If you're a hobbyist and you like spirits, this type of tutorial might be right up your alley. Even if you're not into shooting alcoholic drinks, the tips here are great for beginner product photographers. I'm a big fan of Dolby's videos. They are really well thought out, and I always come away from one having learned something new. As I write this from a stormy, wee island getting battered by the Atlantic's wind and rain, locked in my house, I can't think of many better things to be doing with my spare time. I might not be into vodka, but I do have some clear glassware with labels on them that I can practice with.
Do any of our readers shoot beverages? What do you think about Dolby's tips? We would love to hear from you in the comments below.
