Introduction to Product Photography Flashcards
7 cards from real Product Photography practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Introduction to Product Photography flashcards as text
What is 'focus stacking' and when is it useful in product photography?
Answer: Combining multiple images taken at different focus distances to achieve a fully sharp result
Focus stacking merges images focused at different depths, giving macro or close-up product shots complete sharpness from front to back.
Which lighting ratio would produce the flattest, most even illumination on a product—ideal for detail shots?
Answer: 1:1 key-to-fill ratio
A 1:1 lighting ratio means the key and fill lights are equal in intensity, producing even, shadowless illumination that reveals all product details.
What is the main difference between a 'hard light' and a 'soft light' source in product photography?
Answer: Hard light creates sharp-edged shadows; soft light creates gradual, diffused shadows
Hard light sources are small relative to the subject and cast sharp, defined shadows, while large or diffused soft lights cast gradual, flattering shadows.
When a client requests a 'ghost mannequin' product image for apparel, what technique is used?
Answer: The clothing is photographed on a mannequin, then the mannequin is removed in post to show the 3D shape
The ghost mannequin technique photographs the garment on a mannequin and removes the mannequin in post-production, preserving the 3D shape without showing a model or dummy.
What does 'pixel pitch' of a camera sensor affect in product photography?
Answer: The physical size of each pixel, which influences low-light performance and dynamic range
Larger pixel pitch means bigger individual pixels that can gather more light, improving dynamic range and reducing noise in low-light conditions.
In product photography, what is the purpose of a 'gray card'?
Answer: To provide a neutral 18% gray reference for accurate exposure and white balance
A gray card reflects exactly 18% of light and provides a neutral reference to set accurate exposure and custom white balance.
Why would a product photographer use a longer focal length (e.g., 85mm or 100mm) rather than a wide-angle lens?
Answer: Longer focal lengths minimize perspective distortion and keep the camera at a comfortable working distance
Longer focal lengths compress perspective, preventing the shape distortion that wide-angle lenses cause on close subjects, and allow shooting from a practical distance.