TURNING PRODUCTS INTO STORIES: HOW TO MASTER THE ART OF FLATLAY PHOTOGRAPHY

*IN-PERSON WORKSHOP – We’ll be hosting an in-depth workshop on product photography at the upcoming Fujifilm Creator Summit in Sydney, on Feb 22 & 23. 

A great flatlay does more than showcase a product—it tells a story. Whether you're capturing your latest everyday carry setup or creating content for social media, these tips will help you transform simple product shots into compelling visual narratives.

CHOOSING PROPS THAT TELL YOUR STORY

Think functionality first: Choose props that demonstrate real use. If you're featuring a tech organizer, include the cables, earbuds, and devices it's designed to carry.

Create color harmony: Select items that complement your main product's color scheme. Don't be afraid of thoughtful contrast—it's about building a cohesive palette, not matching exactly. (Note: all black is always in style.)

Add texture and depth: Mix materials to create visual interest. Pair smooth leather with rough denim, or sleek metal with organic elements like coffee cups or plants.

MASTERING LAYOUT AND ARRANGEMENT

Start with your hero: Position your main product slightly off-center using the rule of thirds as your guide. This creates more visual interest than dead-center placement.

Create flow: Arrange supporting items in a way that leads the eye through the image naturally. A phone might sit next to earbuds, which could lead to a coffee cup, suggesting a morning routine.

Mind the spacing: Give your composition room to breathe. Too many items feel cluttered, too few feel sparse. Find balance through experimentation.

LIGHTING YOUR SCENE

Use natural light: Set up near a large window, but avoid direct sunlight which creates harsh shadows. Overcast days provide perfect diffused lighting.

Control shadows: Use a white foam board opposite your light source to bounce light back into shadows for even illumination. Alternatively, shoot the image with the light strong light source lower to the subject to emphasise the moody look.

Watch reflections: When working with glossy products, a subtle tilt can eliminate glare while maintaining the overhead aesthetic.

CAMERA SETTINGS AND ANGLES

Get the height right: Position your camera directly above your setup using a stepstool or tripod with a horizontal arm for a flat show-it-all style flatlay, or shoot the photo from an isometrical angle to add interest and dimension to the subjects and surrounding props.

Dial in your settings:

• Aperture: Use f/2.8 for good depth of field and to ensure that the main product is in focus.

• Aperture: Use f/8 or more to ensure the whole flatlay is in focus if you want to show off the props more

• Shutter speed: With a stable setup, go as slow as needed for proper exposure

Focus on what matters: Ensure your hero product is tack-sharp. In product photography, clarity is key. Sometimes this means that a focus stack is needed. We will be running a more in depth look at using this technique in flatlays at the upcoming Fujifilm event.

BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER

Remember, the most engaging flatlays don't just display products—they inspire possibilities. Take time to experiment with different combinations and arrangements. Trust your eye, but don't be afraid to make adjustments until everything feels right. With practice, you'll be creating professional-quality flatlays that not only showcase your products beautifully but inspire your audience to imagine new possibilities for their own daily carry.

Join us at the Fujifilm Creator Summit, Feb 22 & 23, where we’ll be hosting an in-depth workshop on product photography. Tickets are available on the event website. Every attendee will receive a complimentary custom Elements Tote – Fujifilm Edition.