The book is the largest treasury in the world, containing the wealth of all nations. Before you start photographing books, you should know the purpose of this process: sale, page decor on social networks, art photography.
Object photography of books
Subject photography will help the photographer to get high-quality spectacular photos of books. But what is it? The distinctive features of subject photography include:
- a simple, light background (in most cases, white or muted shades of pastel colors);
- soft daylight;
- minimalism (you should direct all attention to the central subject of the photo);
- blurred background;
- close-up shooting of the central subject (focusing).
The listed characteristics show that the main thing in such a shooting is the object itself. The frame is always simple, minimalistic. The tones are soft. There is no excessive underlining. However, despite all this, the photo should arouse interest, hold the viewer’s attention.
Preparing the location for shooting
It is essential to prepare a place, a photography background correctly. The simplest and safest option is a regular table:
- A sheet of Whatman paper is taken.
- Supports are set at a considerable distance from each other. They can be, for example, books.
- A white sheet is placed between them so that an arc is formed.
It is a priority to make such a table for photography on the windowsill or with a lot of daylight.
Another interesting option for subject photography is a photo box. Its manufacture is also not difficult.
A big box will do, in which all the walls are cut, except for the back. Then white sheets are inserted and fixed with tape. It turns out the illusion of a large bright room, and the photos become “atmospheric”.
Lighting
In general, lighting is a key factor in getting a good shot. Therefore, cold daylight is a basic rule for book photography.
Therefore, you need to shoot them near large windows. Or create ideal illumination using artificial sources: cold lamps, silver reflectors, white background. The listed tools can make the space sufficiently illuminated.
Composition
It is better to photograph old format books with presentable binding.
Concerning composition, we must not forget about the rule of “linear perspective”. Therefore, photographers are advised to take a photo from the side. This is how they will be the most advantageous.
It is also essential to consider how the subjects are placed. One of the best layouts is an uneven stack with one open volume.
It is possible to add objects to the composition: old photographs, garlands, flowers, etc. But it is necessary to ensure that the frame is not overloaded with unnecessary objects and remains laconic.
Recommendations from professional photographers
- the use of various angles, shooting compositions;
- choice of light depending on the subject of photography (natural lighting, light from a lamp, candles);
- the manual shooting mode is optimal;
- the use of additional details in the frame that will add liveliness to the photo, consolidate the comprehension of the picture;
- shooting with flash, because it makes frames brighter, brighter;
- the best time of the year for subject photography is autumn; it is in autumn that daylight becomes soft, muffled;
- experiments with sharpness, contrast are encouraged, which will help to make the photo more “atmospheric”;
- It is worth taking sharp pictures, but with exceptional, memorable detail.
The items next to the books help define the mood of the photo. Any volume will “play” in different ways, depending on what is around it:
- a garland, a Christmas tree, and Christmas decorations, gifts will create the atmosphere of the New Year;
- balloons, cake with candles will indicate a birthday;
- a mug with cocoa or coffee, a blanket will convey the atmosphere of home comfort, warmth;
- laptop, glasses, telephone are responsible for the working atmosphere.
What should be photographed when selling a book?
- Binding (two covers, spine).
- Book block.
- Title page, three first sheets.
- Book screensavers.
- Three last pages.
These images help with the recognition of the date of the publication.
The binding is important – the cost depends on the stamping (the more colorful, the more expensive the book is).