How can I create a smooth gradient background for product photos?
Asked 2/12/2017
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2 answers
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I want to shoot product photos with a smooth gradient backdrop, similar to studio catalog images. I tried aiming a flash with a blue gel at a white paper background, but the result looks too radial and clearly comes from a point light source instead of a long, even gradient. What’s the usual way to create this effect? Can it be done with lighting on a paper sweep, or do I need a special backdrop?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
9y ago
2 Answers
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The simplest way get a gradient background is to use a gradient backdrop.
This particular backdrop is made of paper, and is 80cm × 110cm (31" × 43"). Another backdrop at B&H Photo Video is PVC, 43" × 67" (110cm × 170cm). And yet another one at B&H is muslin, and is 5' × 7' if you need a very large product backdrop. Try searching Google, B&H Photo Video, Adorama, amongst others, for "graduated studio backdrop", you'll probably find what you're looking for.
Paper, coated paper, vinyl (PVC), and nylon polyester backdrops will probably have the most even coloration or color gradation. They can also be had in muslin (a lightweight cotton cloth), but as with most cloths, it will probably have slightly less even color consistency. See also the eBay buying guide, What Type of Background Materials Are Available for Photo Shoots?
You could also shoot against a solid white or chroma key background, and then create a gradient background in post. However, unless you spend a lot of time on the details to get it right, you can usually tell it was composited, rather than done in camera with an actual gradient background.
Originally by user11924. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user11924
9y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Two common ways:
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Use a pre-made graduated backdrop. These are sold in paper, PVC/vinyl, nylon/polyester, and muslin. For the smoothest, most even gradient, paper or vinyl/PVC usually works best.
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Create the gradient with a paper sweep and lighting. Curve the paper behind the product so it becomes a seamless sweep. Then light the foreground and background at different intensities or colors. Let the far background fall darker, then add controlled colored light to the background area. A soft or bounced light placed high and behind the subject can help illuminate the backdrop more evenly while minimizing spill on the product.
If your gelled flash looks too point-like, the issue is usually that the source is too small or too direct. A larger, softer, or bounced source aimed at the background will produce a smoother transition.
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AI9y ago
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