Photographing Clear Liquid Bottles (Gin/Vodka)

Wondering how to make bottles look beautiful? All will become clear…

Discover a host of clear bottle photography techniques that you can easily and effectively try out for yourself!

Learn from a pro as Karl shows you step-by-step how to light and photograph bottles of clear liquid such as gin or vodka.

You’ll discover how to achieve perfect condensation to create that cold, desirable look. Learn which backgrounds and base surfaces work best, and how to light the product beautifully using just two lights.

You’ll also learn how to incorporate additional lights to highlight the label and reduce unwanted shadows, further enhancing your shot.

Simple steps for photographing clear bottles:

  • Prepare the bottle – This includes cleaning the bottle and creating controllable condensation
  • Select the background and base surface – These will have a big impact on your overall image
  • Light the product – This can be done using just a few lights with basic modifiers
  • Photograph the bottle – Determine your composition and camera settings

If you enjoy this class, check out our Whisky Photography and Wine Bottle Photography classes. You can also find tips for creating your own perfect condensation in The Perfect Pint and Condensation Cold Look.

Questions? Please use the comments section below.

Comments

  1. Hi Karl! I’m getting so much out of your courses; it’s been a true revelation! On the white acrylic, here in the states they have “plexiglass” with different light transmission qualities. I’m assuming 2447 would be the correct one based on what you demonstrated. From the Plastics site:
    White plexiglass color and application guidelines:
    • 2447 – 50% light transmission for lighting, light boxes and tables
    • 7328 – 31% light transmission for backlit signs
    • 7508 – 9% light transmission for non-lit signs
    • 3015 – 3% light transmission for non-lit signs
    Any recommendation would be appreciated, thanks!

    1. Hi, glad to hear you are enjoying the platform. If you want to use it as a diffuser then yes the 2447 looks like the best option, I prefer the 5mm thick as a diffuser as it’s stiffer than the 3mm and easier to handle/support. If you want to use it as a base surface for things like packshots then the least transmission is best and have versions in gloss and matt.

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