How to Photograph a Glass Bottle
Photographing a glass bottle can be tricky. Any attempt to photograph the bottle using an on-camera flash or other form of direct artificial light will result in a reflection in the glass. But you don't have to have expensive studio equipment to get great results on camera if you follow these steps.
Things You'll Need
- Room with natural lighting from a side window
- Diffuse material (sheer curtain or length of tulle)
- Work surface
- Background drape or props
- Large mirror and stand
Instructions
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Diffuse the light from the window by hanging a sheer curtain or length of tulle from the window. This will help to dispel any harsh shadows and distort the shape of the light.
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Set up the background to photograph the bottle using a table or other flat surface as a work station. You may achieve a simple, clean background by using a drape. A more artistic backdrop may be created by using props.
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Set up the bottle to be photographed on the work station. Place the mirror on the side of the bottle opposite the window to reflect natural light back onto the bottle from a second direction.
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Photograph the bottle using the available, natural light in the room. Use the camera's automatic settings. Alternately, use the camera's built-in meter and a manual setting.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider the type of bottle you are photographing when selecting your background. Bottles filled with liquid should be photographed on a white background to showcase the bottle's contents. You also may want to consider wearing black as you work. Objects (including you) that catch the light may be reflected in the glass surface. Wearing black helps to minimize this problem.
