The Art of Photographing Flowers

Happy Friday, Friends! I’ve always said that I’m not the best at keeping my own secrets. The truth is that we've been working on a HUGE project that will totally change our online flower shopping experience. I can’t give away too many details just yet, but I can tell you that we ran a marathon two weeks ago.

You’re probably thinking, “What does running a marathon have to do with anything?” Well, we didn’t take to the streets for 26.1 miles, but it sure felt like it. Over the course of 3 days, we redesigned and photographed every product that is on our website along with many new additions. We also did a styled wedding photoshoot featuring extravagant themed centerpieces, bridal bouquets, and one stunning tablescape. (If you haven’t read Julianna’s post from Wednesday about the centerpieces, do it now.) 

Between Julianna and I, our two cameras, and two iPhones, we managed to take nearly 3,000 pictures. After those 3 days, it truly felt like we had run a marathon. Now that we are seasoned flower photographers, I am taking this opportunity to share with you the tricks of the trade.

Lighting: Just say no to fluorescent bulbs. 

The most crucial element of our photoshoot was the use of natural lighting. Our photo station was set up next to a floor-to-ceiling window that allowed for all the natural light we could ever want. To photograph most items, we turned them towards the light to ensure that all the arrangement’s beauty was perfectly illuminated.

Fortunately for us, we had three days of overcast weather. This was absolutely perfect for our shoot because sunny days can cause major lighting issues. Glares from passing cars the sun’s shadows can be difficult to work around. Luckily, we didn’t have to worry about that. 
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If we could only give you one piece of advice when photographing an arrangement, it’s that natural light is your best friend. 

Angles: This is my good side.

If you’ve ever taken a picture of a group of twenty-something ladies, then I’m sure you witnessed the pre-picture arranging where each claims their space in the photo based on “their good side.” Turns out, every side of a flower is its good side. For each arrangement, we made certain to take photos from every angle possible. The different angles shots guaranteed that we would have an abundance of images to pick from as well as a solid inventory of images useful for marketing and social media materials. ​

Squats on Squats on Squats

To get the best angle shots, you’re required to squat. It’s really not an option. Since the picture station was ground-level, we spent the majority of our 3 days in the squat position. Think of it this way: not only were we working on our website, but we were also working on our fitness. (Cue Fergie’s “Fergalicious” tune!) Seriously though, photographing flowers can be a workout. It’s important to wear casual clothes and comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty. (True Life: Every outfit I wore for those three days went home covered in dirt, dust, lily pollen, etc. Sometimes you just have to do it for the ‘gram.)  ​

Too much of a good thing is wonderful.

I promise that’s not a typo. Too much of a good thing is definitely wonderful when it comes to photographing flowers. Take as many pictures from every angle possible in the first round. Then move on to something else and revisit the same arrangement hours or a day later. The flowers may have opened a little more, the lighting may have changed, or you may see it in a different way than you did before. 

​When you have a vast repertoire of unique images, then you lessen the chance of experiencing the post-photoshoot editing regret that is a result of realizing you didn’t capture something the way you wanted. That’s the worst feeling, especially when the arrangement you need to reshoot has “seen better days.” The beauty of fresh cut flowers is fleeting, so take as many pictures as your memory card and hard drive will hold. You’ll be glad you did.

Our photoshoot was just one small aspect of our exciting project. We can't wait to reveal more of our exciting news, so stay tuned! 

Have a wonderful weekend, flower-lovers! 

Always Thinking Flowers,
​Taylor