When an company spends thousands-to-millions of dollars on advertising, that is not the time to leave the product photography to an amateur. Not unless they want the product to fail.
DONMAC ideas! suggests when canvassing for a professional photographer, first, ask to see a portfolio of their work. Because of portability and convenience, do not be surprised to view the portfolio from a DVD on yours or the photographer's laptop computer.
The photographer should be forthcoming as to his, or her, equipment. Pay particular attention to the camera they use and the array of lenses at their disposal. A limited-capability camera, coupled with a minimum assortment of lenses could seriously limit the photo options for your job.
Lighting equipment, and the ability to use it, makes all the difference between success or failure in product photography. By viewing the photographer's portfolio, you will immediately be able to see whether the photographer knows how to use light and shadow for product dramatization.
