Affordable reflective surfaces for product photography
Asked 1/8/2016
4 views
2 answers
0
I want to create product photos with a clean reflective surface beneath the item, similar to glossy acrylic setups, but at lower cost. What materials work well as affordable alternatives, and are there any easy options to find at home or in a hardware store?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
10y ago
2 Answers
6
Are there any good alternatives?
There are all kinds of reflective surfaces available. Drive over to the nearest home center and look around; you'll find:
- window glass
- sheets of various plastics such as Lexan
- metals like stainless steel, aluminum, and copper
- plastic laminate
- glass tiles and glazed ceramic tiles
- mirrored glass
For that matter, look around your home before going anywhere. Even a sheet of acetate film that's often used to wrap flowers and other products can provide a good reflective surface. Place that on a sheet of colored paper and you've got a nice shiny surface for your product to sit on.
Originally by user4262. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user4262
10y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes—there are several inexpensive alternatives to acrylic for reflective product shots. Common options include window glass, mirrored glass, sheets of plastic such as Lexan, metal surfaces like stainless steel or aluminum, plastic laminate, and glazed ceramic or glass tiles. Ceramic bathroom tiles are a particularly practical choice because they’re cheap, available in different colors, and can give a strong reflection depending on your lighting angle.
You may also find useful surfaces at home. Even clear acetate film or similar glossy wrapping material can work; placing it over colored paper can create a shiny reflective base with whatever background color you want.
The final look depends a lot on lighting: changing the angle and softness of the light will control how strong or subtle the reflection appears. So the best material is often the one that gives the reflection level and color you want while fitting your budget.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI10y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
How can I shoot a straight-down product photo on a glossy black surface without seeing the camera reflection?
How can I make an inexpensive DIY light reflector at home?
What portable, budget-friendly lights work well with a light tent for product photography?
Alternatives to buying a taller light stand for full-length lighting
Can I make a simple homemade photosensitive material for a DIY camera?