Photographers are constantly on the lookout for innovative ways to enhance their images and make their work stand out. At Instant Backdrops, we try to cater to these creative needs with our extensive range of professional photography backdrops. From seamless and vinyl backdrops for product photography to customizable options for e-commerce shoots, our backdrops are designed to meet the demands of photographers at all levels.

But when it comes to how to be creative with professional backdrops, there is no one better to ask for advice than Elisabet, a talented photographer known on Instagram to her 25k followers as elivecreative. We got a chance to talk to her about how she carved a niche for herself in product photography, what was her journey, and what is her creative process when it comes to professional creative photography. She also gave us some tips for using backdrops to create compelling and unique images. Her insights truly are invaluable for photographers who are looking to elevate their craft with the right backdrops. 

Elisabet, can you share your journey into creative photography and how you established elivecreative.com?

I started in the world of photography almost by chance, as my studies and profession were focused on graphic and web design. I created a natural cosmetics blog in 2015 called BienBio. Gradually, through product reviews and collaborations with brands, I specialized in product photography. Around 2021, I rebranded from BienBio (http://www.ecosferaclub.es/blog/bienbio/) to Elive Creative on my social media to focus more on my profession and passion for design and photography. In 2023, I launched my website to showcase my work professionally. Before that, I used Behance to display my portfolio to brands and agencies.

What inspires your creative process when planning and executing a photoshoot?

The brand's values and graphic style inspire me, along with what the client wants to convey. With this in mind, I define the main objective of the photoshoot. I make sketches, look for ideas and inspiration on platforms like Pinterest, and gather all the backgrounds and materials I need before the session. Planning is essential, and I ensure everything is ready the day before the shoot. 

How do you approach the challenge of making each photoshoot unique, especially when working with similar subjects or products?

Each brand has its essence, and you must capture and convey it. You need to thoroughly immerse yourself in the brand, and the client should provide as much information as possible. My background in graphic design helps a lot, especially in understanding graphic styles, colour psychology, and the best colour combinations for each project. For instance, for a floral style session, I used various elements like a tray with water, a heart-shaped cardboard, or an acrylic sheet with water droplets. Each photograph was distinct but maintained cohesion with the same background and flowers.

 Can you share some of your favourite techniques for adding a creative twist to traditional photography setups?

I enjoy crafts and playing with lights. For example, using a piece of cardboard with a shape (like a heart or star) and placing it in front of a light creates a unique touch. 

The Light Painting technique always results in a unique abstract background. In these two photos, I used the Totally Black background, and as you can see, the result is completely different in each photo.There are many techniques, and the important thing is to know them and use them to our advantage, depending on what we want to convey. 

How do you balance the technical aspects of photography with the need for creative expression in your work?

Both aspects are connected. You need to understand the technical side to be able to execute what you have in mind; otherwise, you would never be able to carry it out correctly. For instance, whether you want everything in the image to be in focus or just the product, whether you want a luminous image or a darker one to add more drama, the number of lights to use, whether you want hard or diffused light, the type of lens, and so on. At first, it might seem chaotic, but with time, it becomes second nature, and you don't have to think so much about the technical side. Nowadays, when I have an idea, it's very easy to execute it technically, but it wasn't like that in the beginning. I achieved this through practice, practice, and experimentation.

How do you choose and use studio backdrops for product photography to create a unique look for your clients?

Once I have the idea, I select the photography background that best matches what I have in mind, always keeping in line with what the client wants to convey (we can never lose sight of this). As I mentioned in other questions, there are many techniques and accessories that help make a photograph unique and different. For example, playing with lights and water, using accessories like acrylic panels, trays, mirrors, cardboard, floral elements, or fabrics. Post-production tools, such as Adobe Photoshop, also play a crucial role.

What advice would you give to aspiring photographers looking to develop their own creative style?

Take courses, learn different techniques, and most importantly, practice a lot. Look for photographers and references that inspire you. Be very clear about what you enjoy photographing, as it’s a broad field and it’s better to specialize. Your photographic style will find you naturally over time. Don’t waste time searching for it; enjoy the journey.

Which backdrop from Instant Backdrops is your favourite and why?

Although I usually use solid backgrounds for clients, I personally like floral and romantic backgrounds, such as Romantic Blossoms. It gives the photography a unique and natural charm and works well for both portrait photography and natural cosmetics brands.