Still life: Capturing the beauty of the inanimate
Still life photography and art focuses on the depiction of inanimate subject matter, typically commonplace objects which may be natural (food, flowers, dead animals, plants, rocks, shells, etc.) or man-made (drinking glasses, books, vases, jewellery, coins, pipes, etc.).
From showcasing products for e-commerce to creating evocative fine art prints, still life offers a powerful way to communicate visually.
What to look for in a still life freelancer
Finding the right still life artist or photographer requires careful consideration of your specific needs. Look for a freelancer who demonstrates a strong understanding of composition, lighting, and texture.
Their portfolio should showcase a variety of styles and techniques, demonstrating their versatility. Pay attention to their ability to evoke emotion and tell a story through their work, even with inanimate subjects.
Main expertise areas
Still life encompasses a range of specialisations. When hiring, consider these key areas:
- Product photography: Ideal for e-commerce, catalogues, and advertising, this style focuses on showcasing products clearly and attractively.
- Food photography: This specialisation requires an understanding of food styling and the ability to capture the deliciousness of culinary creations.
- Fine art still life: This area explores artistic expression through the arrangement and depiction of objects, often with symbolic meaning.
- Tabletop photography: Often used for product photography, this focuses on smaller objects arranged on a table or similar surface.
- Still life painting/drawing: For clients seeking traditional media, look for artists proficient in oil, acrylic, watercolour, or drawing techniques.
Relevant interview questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to assess a freelancer's suitability. Here are some examples:
- Can you share examples of still life projects similar to mine?
- Describe your process for setting up a still life shoot or creating a still life artwork.
- How do you approach lighting and composition in your still life work?
- What software or tools do you use for post-processing (for photography)?
- How do you ensure the accuracy of colour and detail in your work?
Tips for shortlisting candidates
Review portfolios carefully, paying attention to the following:
- Consistency of style: Does their portfolio align with your project's aesthetic?
- Technical proficiency: Are the images or artworks well-executed, with attention to detail?
- Creativity and originality: Do they bring a unique perspective to their work?
- Client testimonials: What do previous clients say about their experience?
Potential red flags
Be mindful of these potential issues:
- A limited portfolio: A small portfolio may indicate a lack of experience.
- Inconsistent quality: Variations in quality across their work could suggest inconsistency in their output.
- Poor communication: Unresponsive or unclear communication can hinder project progress.
Typical complementary skills
Still life freelancers often possess these additional skills:
- Image editing and retouching
- Prop styling
- Set design
- Art direction
- Digital illustration
Benefits of hiring a still life freelancer
Hiring a skilled still life freelancer offers several advantages:
- High-quality visuals: Professionally created still life images or artwork elevate your brand and capture attention.
- Targeted expertise: Specialised skills ensure your project is executed with precision and artistry.
- Cost-effectiveness: Freelancers offer flexible pricing options to suit your budget.
- Fresh perspective: A freelancer can bring new ideas and creativity to your project.
Whether you need stunning product photos for your website, captivating food imagery for your menu, or a unique piece of fine art, a skilled still life freelancer can bring your vision to life.
