Closing the portfolio gap part II: apothecary-inspired beauty photography
When I upgraded my lighting setup from continuous to strobe, I did what any photographer would do: I designed a test shoot.
My goals were twofold. First, get comfortable with the new gear. Second, fill a gap in my portfolio, this time with a focus on personal care. Just like my earlier lipstick test, I approached this shoot with intention: try new techniques, push my visuals further, and craft work that aligns with the kind of clients I want to attract.
Telling a bath story
I set out to tell a story that was part editorial, part luxury, and part otherworldly sanctuary. The strategy and creative process took my work further than a simple lighting test.
Personal care category
I wanted more skincare, bath, and beauty imagery. Products with tactility and sensory appeal.
Sense of place
Taking a break from my usual seamless studio setups, I incorporated environmental storytelling with hints of tile and cast shadow. The goal was to suggest space without overcomplicating the frame.
Editorial sculptural stack
Always a favorite. I explored balance, form, and verticality to create images that feel as much like design objects as they do beauty products.
Soft focus
A shift in texture and tone. I played with dreamy depth of field to evoke calm and comfort.
Natural materials
Ceramic, stone, wood, bristles. Elements that soften and warm the frame, keeping the imagery grounded and luxurious.
Luxury feel
My dream clients live in the elevated personal care space. Brands that value both design and indulgence. The lighting, textures, and styling all aimed to support that premium positioning.
Beyond a test shoot
This project wasn’t just a lighting trial. It was a chance to create targeted work that bridges art direction with commerce. While the products were stand-ins, the process was an opportunity to experiment, refine, and build toward the kind of work I want to be hired for. It helped me articulate how I want my beauty and wellness images to feel: elevated, tactile, and a little bit magical.
Further reading
For the strategic framework behind this series, read Closing the portfolio gap: beauty brands
To see how everyday objects take on layered symbolism, explore the Milk, objects, and the stories we tell
To apply frameworks for planning your own shoots, explore the Creative tools page
Next steps
If your brand is ready for striking, story-driven imagery that elevates everyday products, view services or get in touch.