Still life techniques

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Key points

1. Use classical still life paintings as inspiration for composition and styling.
2. Choose subject matter that follows a cohesive theme (e.g. autumn fruits for an October mood).
3. Lighting: aim for moody, natural light – one main source plus a reflector/bounce (e.g. foam core).
4. Select descriptive words (e.g. delicate, moody, timeless) to guide decisions on backdrop, props, and styling.
5. Add lived-in realism by including cut fruit or other natural imperfections.
6. Use a backdrop and tablecloth (e.g. black background, linen sheet) to support mood and style.
7. Increase visual interest with varying levels and heightss (candlesticks, bottles, stands, table surface).
8. Keep experimenting – adjust, add, or remove objects until the balance feels right.

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• Be mindful of clutter – too many props can distract from the main subject.

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Key points

1. Still life photography is a creative exercise in composition, lighting, and symbolism.
2. Begin with a clear concept or theme for your still life and select props that are meaningful or symbolic – sketch or note down props and their meanings.
3. Choose props that are both visually interesting and symbolically meaningful (e.g. feathers for hope, books for knowledge, candles for eternity).
4. Arrange objects using composition rules (rule of thirds, leading lines, balance) – experiment until the arrangement feels intentional, balanced and engaging.
5. Light is crucial – employ side lighting to enhance dimension and create dramatic shadows, contributing to the mood and artistic quality of the photograph.
6. Incorporate personal objects or family symbolism to add depth and authenticity.
7. Background lighting + side lighting = strong shadows and atmosphere; avoid too much front light to prevent flatness.
8. Treat still life as a blend of art and science, using both aesthetics and meaning to build the image.

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Extra Thoughts

1. While “still life techniques” are not explicitly listed as a skill in the SQA course specification, still life is a recognised genre of photography that may appear in the question paper.
2. The principles of still life photography demonstrate the application of core SQA-assessed skills, particularly in using subject matter and applying compositional techniques.
3. When approaching still life, consider:
   • Subject Matter: Carefully selecting and arranging props that align with a cohesive theme or concept. These objects can be chosen for their symbolic meaning or visual interest.
   • Composition: Intentionally arranging objects using various compositional rules (e.g., rule of thirds, leading lines, balance, varying levels and heights) to create a sense of intention and engagement.
   • Lighting: Employing controlled lighting (often side lighting or natural light modified by reflectors/diffusers) to enhance form, dimension, texture, and create specific moods (e.g., moody, dramatic, ethereal).
4. Still life photography is an excellent way to practise problem-solving and creative decision-making by meticulously controlling every element within the frame to communicate a desired message or mood.

Exercise

1. Write down what you would like to say with a still life.
2. Research how you can express those concepts with physical objects.
3. Assemble as many of those objects as you can then set up and shoot a still life. Paying close attention to:
   1. Arrangement - try to take inspiration from classical still life paintings - consider levels, shapes and relationships.
   2. Cohesiveness - ensure all elements work together as part of your theme.
   3. Lighting - try moody single window light and a white board or foam core reflector.
4. Assess and note down how well your final image expressed what you wanted to say from step 1.