Studio photographers use props in most situations to create an atmosphere of reality of the scene. In this post, I will focus on how Cigars could be used effectively as a studio prop.
In this post I shall only focus on using Cigars for studio props – how to use them, where to find some of the best Cigars. Cigars can create an environment of seriousness, intensity & depth.
If you are a beginner, you may want to start off with photographing the complete bust & use the Cigar not as a dominant part of the scene. You will be able to learn various perspectives & soon see how “shooting into” a cigar does not always give you the same impact.
Most pro photographers find it more dramatic to shoot at an angle. Personally I find shooting almost perpendicular to the Cigar gives me the best shot. I can also use the studio lighting effectively to create impressionistic halo around the fumes.
As a pro product photographer you have to keep the focus on the Cigar itself. Contrary to a scene where a Cigar is a prop, in a cigar product photo, it has to be the center of attention.
Take time to browse online for all the various types of cigars. If product photography is your primary aim, you may want to check Famous Smoke Shop. They have Cohiba cigars, Macanudo cigars and all other major cigar brands. many of the products are at big discounts, reducing your cost & allowing you to experiment with more.
Cigar product photography will also include photographing various accessories. Cigar humidors & cigar cutters are the most essential. They come in various decorative shapes & sizes, and prices vary depending on the ornamentation used. The Famous Smoke Shop also retails cigar accessories including humidors & cutters.
As a last point on Cigar product photography, take time to read about the history of the brand. Cigars are more than just a smoking product – people associate a lot of status, culture & pride with the brand of Cigars that they smoke. Reading about the brand helps in projecting the right image of the specific brand that you are photographing.
Filed under: Products & Services | Tagged: Product Photography
