It’s not unusual to be called to photograph a machine while it’s still in production. Because of this, I don’t get to shoot in a big white studio where everything can be controlled. Sometimes I’m lucky and have space to move around and put my lights but not always. Direct light hitting a round, shiny object creates all kinds of unwanted reflections. The idea of using natural light is not an option since that is also not ideal and usually nonexistent. The existing light is low-hanging fluorescent lights mixed with sodium vapor factory lights. This makes everything look strange with a yellow and green color cast that is difficult to correct.
The Rota-Matic Vacuum packaging system is on the manufacturing floor ready to be photographed. The area is small with low ceilings making it challenging to photograph the round stainless steel machine.
The area was cleaned up enough to add my lights. TheRota-Matic is evenly lit to show all the details.
I was able to move enough out of the way so I could fit my lights. By using reflectors and bounce walls, I was able to create even light without highlights that would be too bright or shadows being too dark. It’s a challenge to get enough light into the dark areas to maintain details without the highlights being too bright.
Final image of the Rota-Matic.
Retouching is done to create a final image. The wheels which are used for easy movement during manufacturing are replaced with the actual legs that will be installed for use. The machine is then removed from the factory background to create a clean image ready for marketing.