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Here is an interesting look of a product shot and what goes to it. I find this quite interesting for its calculated and precise technique that was used. I remember photographing Playboy playmates at Playboy’s Studio West which also were done in a similar manner since the classic centerfold shot is actually much like a product shot.

Not much movement was allowed and the lighting has to be very precise and supportive. Just like in this liquor ad shot by David Lund, all the Playboy shoots were shot on film and the allowed exposure fluctuation that was allowed was a 10th of a stop max!

The only major difference was that you got to spend weeks at a time with some of the most beautiful ladies known to Mr. Hefner’s taste instead of a whisky bottle. Both do warm you very nicely, I just wonder which one lasts longer? (Exposure-wise speaking, of course).

Since then, the times have changed and so has the way to photograph a centerfold. But those who mastered the lighting techniques have the gift of a lifetime.

Check out some classic Playboy and modern lighting techniques here.

David Lund, as seen in this video, is a commercial photographer who specializes in shooting liquids and his portfolio includes high profile campaigns for an array of clients.

The key elements in this shot are the focus and the illumination of color with a playful liquid interaction between glasses. The color cue was taken from the packaging of the product itself. The same branding method is often used by companies like CocaCola and Target who use their red Circle even in a dog’s eye and bulls eye.

Checkout more of the shoot detail on David Lund’s blog. And who knows what kind of inspiration you might get. Just get some real ice-cubes.

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