Tips on Photography for White Tableware

There are few things you need to aware of when shooting white tableware.

Every photographic subject requires a slightly different approach. While the basic concepts of exposure and composition apply to every photograph, certain subjects or settings require additional techniques in order to capture the picture correctly. When photographing white tableware there are a few things that you need to consider based on the color and if the tableware has a shinny finish.

Use Custom White Balance

There are many variations to the color of white. Some whites are slightly warmer in tint than other whites. If you are a shooting color film, as a photographer you will be expected to capture the specific tint of the tableware. Using a custom white balance will give you the latitude to set the cameras white balance to accurately capture the color of the tableware.

Shoot in RAW Mode

If the camera has the ability to shoot in RAW mode, then use it. Shooting in RAW mode gives the photographer more options and control over adjusting the color spectrum of the picture in post production editing. Coupled with using a custom white balance, this should allow the photographer to accurately capture the true color of the tableware.

Over-expose the Picture

Light meters that are built into digital cameras read "reflective" light. When light is directed towards a white surface, more of it if reflected off than when it is directed towards a darker surface. The additional light being directed towards the camera will make the camera think the object is brighter than it really is, resulting in an underexposed picture. Use the "exposure compensation" button on your digital camera to add a half stop of additional exposure.

Beware of Reflections

Any item that has a reflective finish, like white tableware can be difficult to photograph as the studio lights, and in some cases the camera itself, can be seen in the subject itself. Digital cameras give photographers the ability to view the picture immediately after it has been taken. Review the first picture and see if you can see your lights and camera in the image. You can use a telephoto lens and move your shooting position further away from the subject to remove the reflection of the camera. To remove the light reflections, you may need to try different positions until the reflection is gone.

References

• Steve's Digicam: Delicate Balance, your camera and white balance
• Photoflexlightingschool: Controlling Reflections