Flat lay photography: styling products from above

A flat lay is an overhead photo of objects arranged on a surface. It works for food, fashion, beauty, stationery and travel gear.

Getting overhead

• Stand on a sturdy step stool directly above the scene.
• Use a tripod with a horizontal arm, or a 3-way head tilted straight down.
• Keep the camera sensor parallel to the surface to avoid distortion.

Surfaces

Wood, marble, linen, colored paper and tiles create backgrounds that match the brand. In Yucatán, pasta tiles and henequen mats are great choices.

Composition

• Choose a hero item and place it first.
• Arrange supporting items around it using a grid, diagonal or circular layout.
• Leave breathing space; overcrowding is the most common mistake.
• Odd numbers of items look more natural.

Light

Soft window light from one side adds gentle shadows that give depth. Use a reflector on the opposite side.

Lens

A 35mm to 50mm lens avoids distortion while fitting the scene.

Add life

Hands reaching into the frame, a spilled ingredient or a crumpled napkin make flat lays feel natural.