What is Lifestyle Product Photography?
by Krisztian Sipos
Lifestyle product photography shows products in real-life settings, telling a story that resonates with customers. This style often evokes emotions, helping people imagine your product in their daily lives. Instead of the typical white background used in classic product shots, lifestyle photography uses relatable scenes and creative setups, turning ordinary product images into aspirational moments.
What is Lifestyle Product Photography?
Lifestyle product photography goes beyond a product-focused shot to create a narrative. Think about a coffee cup on a breakfast table, surrounded by books, or a cozy sweater worn by someone relaxing by a fire. This style of photography makes products feel familiar and attainable, connecting with customers' emotions.
In lifestyle product photography:
People often interact with the product, adding authenticity.
Settings are realistic—homes, cafes, outdoor spaces—that help customers imagine the product in their life.
Lighting and composition create a natural look, avoiding a staged or artificial appearance.
Lifestyle vs. Product Photography
Product Photography (aka Packshot Photography)
Product photography, also known as packshot photography, is the classic approach where a product is shot on a plain background, usually white. This functional style is often used for e-commerce and helps customers understand a product's features clearly. Major online retailers like Amazon use packshots to create a consistent product look.
Lifestyle Photography
Lifestyle photography is creative and aspirational, designed to inspire viewers. It places products in context, often with props or people, to create a memorable visual experience. This style is highly effective for social media and brand storytelling.
Which is Right for Your Brand?
Choosing between lifestyle and product photography depends on your business needs. Lifestyle photos are ideal for social media, where storytelling and engagement are crucial. Classic product photos are often better suited for online stores, press features, and e-commerce platforms.
The Importance of Lifestyle Product Photography
Lifestyle product photography can significantly impact how customers perceive your brand.
1. Lifestyle Photography Composites
Creating composite images with multiple items styled together can help customers see how your products fit into a broader lifestyle.
2. Products in Use
Showing used or worn products brings them to life, helping potential buyers picture them in their daily routines.
Lifestyle Photography Tips
Here are some quick tips to get the most out of lifestyle product photography:
Stay Organised
Planning is crucial—keep track of your shots, props, and scenes to save time and capture a cohesive series of images.
Be Clear with Your Vision
Define the look and feel of your brand. Do you want it to feel cosy, bold, or modern? Set a style direction to keep your photos on-brand.
Show Your Brand's Values and Personality
Think about how you want customers to feel about your brand. For example, if sustainability is a priority, incorporate natural settings and materials into your photos.
Mix it Up
Use a variety of compositions and angles to keep your imagery exciting and engaging.
Put Yourself in Your Customers' Shoes
Consider what your customers care about. Use scenarios that reflect their lives and aspirations.
Maximise Your Investment
Invest in quality lifestyle photography to elevate your brand's image and make the most of the content by using it across social media, websites, and advertising.
How to Get Lifestyle Photography
There are a few ways to bring lifestyle product photography to your brand:
Hire a Photographer or Studio
Professional photographers have the experience, equipment, and creative vision to bring your ideas to life.
Get Creative Using Social Media
User-generated content can be a great way to showcase lifestyle images. Encourage customers to share photos of your products in use.
Do It Yourself
With the right tools and a creative approach, DIY lifestyle photography can be compelling for small businesses.
Where to Find a Lifestyle Photographer
If you're looking to hire a professional, search for photographers with experience in lifestyle product photography. Check their portfolios to see if their style aligns with your brand.
Carefully Review the Portfolio Before Booking
Review the photographer's work to ensure their vision matches what you're looking for. Look for consistency, quality, and examples of how they use lighting, composition, and styling.
Lifestyle Product Photography Pricing: How to Budget
Pricing can vary based on factors like location, experience, and the complexity of the shoot. Research your options and set a budget that allows for high-quality images.
FAQs about Lifestyle Product Photography
How do you make a lifestyle product picture?
To create lifestyle product photos:
Start by selecting a setting that reflects the product's use.
Choose props that enhance the story, and use natural or warm lighting for an authentic feel.
Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture a dynamic look.
What is the difference between lifestyle and portrait photography?
Lifestyle photography focuses on products in real-world settings, while portrait photography centres on people. People may interact with the product in lifestyle product shots, but the product is the main focus.
FAQs about Krisztian Sipos Studio
Does Krisztian Sipos Studio offer lifestyle product photography?
Yes! Krisztian Sipos Studio specialises in lifestyle and packshot product photography, tailoring each shoot to fit the brand's vision.
Can Krisztian Sipos Studio provide lifestyle and classic product photography in one shoot?
Absolutely! Many clients find a mix of both styles effective, and Krisztian Sipos Studio is well-equipped to handle both approaches in a single session.
What should I prepare before a shoot with Krisztian Sipos Studio?
We recommend sharing your vision, any brand guidelines, and example images to help us align with your goals. We'll handle the rest, from setting up props to perfect lighting.
Use Lifestyle Product Photography to Connect with Shoppers
Lifestyle photography bridges the gap between products and people, inspiring customers and helping them envision your products. Whether you DIY or hire a professional, investing in this style can boost brand engagement and sales.