Learn: Individual Image vs Editorial Image
So you’ve decided to invest in product photography for your small business. Nice! But maybe some of these terms aren’t familiar to you, leaving you a little confused about what it is you really need.
Let’s break down two terms you’ll hear often when discussing product photography projects
INDIVIDUAL PRODUCT IMAGE
Sometimes referred to as an E-Commerce image, this type of photography is ideal for businesses in need of clean and consistency images of products they sell. An individual product image is well-lit, with little to no props, and on a simple background. The background can be white, grey, or any color that aligns with your business’s brand colors.
The point of this image is to focus only on the product. No fluff. Or hardly any fluff. A tiny bit of fluff. Sometimes.
Where can you use individual product images?
As the main photo for your product’s listing on your website
For wholesale line sheets or catalogs
To create a consistent look + style if you sell a variety of products
Examples
EDITORIAL IMAGE
Sometimes referred to as a product lifestyle image, this type of photography is about photographing products in a creative environment or “scene” that instantly draws the viewer in. There is a higher level of prop styling, dynamic lighting, and composition allowing your products to really show their stuff.
The point of this image is to engage with your audience with vibrant imagery, showcase your brand’s story through visuals, and highlight the quality of the products you make. In short, these are the gorgeous photographs you use everywhere.
Where can you use editorial images?
On your website - page headers, product listings, blog posts, secondary imagery for contact + about page
On social media and other promotional platforms
Product launches and look books
Any printed material that promotes your business
Examples
Visit Rockaway Candle Co’s website to see how Morgan beautifully pairs her individual and editorial imagery throughout her website and her social media.
