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Tips For Shooting Stunning Travel Flat Lays

Published: October 11, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Ebonee Crain

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Introduction

Welcome to the world of travel flat lays, where creativity meets wanderlust! If you’re an avid traveler or just someone who loves documenting your trips in a visually stunning way, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will explore the art of shooting captivating travel flat lays and provide you with tips on how to take your travel photography to the next level.

A travel flat lay is a type of photography where various items, such as travel essentials, souvenirs, and personal belongings, are arranged on a flat surface to tell a story about a destination or a travel experience. It’s a unique and artistic way to capture the essence of a place and create visually appealing compositions.

Whether you’re a professional photographer or a hobbyist looking to improve your skills, these tips will help you create stunning travel flat lays that will impress your friends and followers on social media. So let’s dive in and discover how you can master the art of shooting captivating travel flat lays!

Finding the Perfect Location

When it comes to shooting travel flat lays, finding the right location is crucial. The setting should complement the theme or story you want to portray in your flat lay composition. Here are some tips on finding the perfect location:

• Scout for interesting backdrops: Look for visually appealing surfaces or backgrounds, such as rustic wooden tables, colorful textiles, or even unique floor tiles. These elements can add depth and visual interest to your flat lay.
• Consider the destination: If you’re shooting a travel flat lay to showcase a specific location, try to find spots that capture the essence of that place. For example, if you’re in a beach destination, consider shooting on the sand or near palm trees to create a tropical vibe.
• Look for natural light: Good lighting is essential for any type of photography, including flat lays. Seek out locations with ample natural light, such as near windows or in outdoor spaces. Soft, diffused light will help create beautiful, even lighting for your flat lay composition.
• Experiment with different environments: Don’t limit yourself to shooting indoors. Head outdoors to parks, coffee shops, or bustling streets to add a sense of location and context to your travel flat lay. The environment can add a unique touch to your composition and tell a story about the destination.

Remember, the location you choose sets the stage for your travel flat lay. It should complement the items you’ll be including in your composition and help convey the mood and atmosphere you want to capture. Keep an eye out for interesting backdrops, consider the destination you’re highlighting, and make the most of natural light and different environments to create visually engaging travel flat lays.

Choosing the Right Props

Props play a crucial role in creating visually captivating travel flat lays. They add depth, interest, and a personal touch to your composition. Here are some tips to help you choose the right props for your travel flat lays:

• Consider the theme: Think about the story or theme you want to convey through your flat lay. Are you showcasing a beach vacation? A city adventure? Choose props that align with the theme and evoke the desired atmosphere. For example, seashells, sun hats, and sunglasses would work well for a beach-themed flat lay.
• Balance the size and quantity: A variety of prop sizes and quantities can create an aesthetically pleasing composition. Include larger items to serve as anchors or focal points and fill in the surrounding space with smaller props. Maintaining a balance ensures that the flat lay doesn’t feel cluttered or empty.
• Consider texture and color: Incorporating different textures and colors can add visual interest to your flat lay. Choose props with contrasting textures, such as soft fabrics, shiny objects, or rough surfaces, to create a dynamic composition. Similarly, select props that complement or contrast with each other in terms of color to make your flat lay visually appealing.
• Personalize with meaningful items: Include personal items that hold significance or a sentimental value to you. It could be a well-worn travel journal, a beloved souvenir, or a cherished accessory. These items add a personal touch to your flat lay and make it more unique and meaningful.

Remember, the props you choose should enhance the overall composition and contribute to the story you want to tell. They should be relevant to the theme, visually appealing, and add depth and interest to the flat lay. Take the time to curate a collection of props that will bring your travel flat lays to life and make them stand out.

Creating a Captivating Composition

Creating a captivating composition is key to capturing attention and telling a visually compelling story with your travel flat lay. Here are some tips to help you create an engaging and visually appealing composition:

• Start with a focal point: Choose a main item or element that will serve as the focal point of your composition. This could be a landmark, a unique souvenir, or a prominent object that represents the theme or destination you’re showcasing. Place it strategically to draw the viewer’s eye and anchor the composition.
• Arrange items in an organized way: Avoid a cluttered or haphazard arrangement by organizing your props in a deliberate manner. Consider using the rule of thirds, where you divide your composition into a 3×3 grid and place important elements along the intersecting lines. This creates a visually pleasing and harmonious composition.
• Create depth and dimension: Experiment with layering to add depth and dimension to your flat lay. Place objects at different heights or angles to create visual interest and make the composition more dynamic. This can be achieved by using props of varying sizes or elevating some items with the help of books or small objects.
• Use leading lines: Incorporate leading lines into your composition to guide the viewer’s eye and create a sense of movement. These can be lines formed by props, surfaces, or even shadows. Leading lines help to create a visual flow and draw attention to key elements within the flat lay.
• Leave enough negative space: Negative space refers to the empty areas around your props. Leaving enough negative space helps to balance the composition, allows the props to breathe, and creates a sense of simplicity and focus. Don’t be afraid of empty space; it can be just as impactful as the props themselves.

Remember, a captivating composition guides the viewer through the story you’re telling with your travel flat lay. By starting with a focal point, arranging items in an organized manner, creating depth and dimension, using leading lines, and leaving enough negative space, you can create visually stunning compositions that captivate and engage your audience.

Utilizing Natural Light

Natural light can make a significant difference in the quality of your travel flat lays. It provides a soft and flattering illumination that can bring your composition to life. Here are some tips on how to make the most of natural light:

• Shoot during the golden hour: The golden hour refers to the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset when the sun provides a warm and soft light. This is often considered the best time for photography, including flat lays. The gentle, angled light during this time adds a beautiful glow and creates long, soft shadows that can add depth and dimension to your composition.
• Find the right window: If shooting indoors, position your flat lay near a window that allows for ample natural light. North-facing windows tend to provide soft, diffused light that is ideal for flat lays. Avoid direct sunlight, which can create harsh shadows and uneven lighting. Use sheer curtains or a white sheet to diffuse the light if necessary.
• Consider the direction of light: Pay attention to the direction from which the light is coming. Side lighting can create interesting shadows and highlights, adding texture to your props. Backlighting can create a dreamy and ethereal effect, especially for translucent or delicate objects. Experiment with different lighting directions to achieve the desired mood and aesthetic.
• Adjust your exposure: Play with your camera or phone settings to adjust the exposure to the natural light. You may need to increase or decrease the exposure depending on the brightness of the light. This will help balance the overall lighting and prevent overexposed or underexposed areas in your flat lay.

Remember, natural light brings a beautiful and authentic quality to your travel flat lays. By shooting during the golden hour, finding the right window, considering the direction of light, and adjusting your exposure, you can make the most of natural light and create stunning compositions that have a natural and inviting glow.

Mastering Depth of Field

Mastering depth of field in your travel flat lays can add an artistic and professional touch to your compositions. Depth of field refers to the range of distance in your image that appears sharp and in focus. Here are some tips for achieving the desired depth of field:

• Aperture control: Adjusting the aperture settings on your camera or phone can control the depth of field. A wider aperture (smaller f-number, such as f/2.8 or f/4) creates a shallow depth of field, where only a specific portion of your flat lay is in focus while the background remains blurry. A narrow aperture (larger f-number, such as f/8 or f/16) creates a deeper depth of field, where more of the scene or props are in focus.
• Focus on the main element: Identify the main element or focal point in your flat lay and make sure it is sharp and well-focused. This will draw attention to that specific area and create a sense of depth. Use manual focus or tap on the main element on your phone screen to ensure it is in focus.
• Create intentional blur: Utilize a shallow depth of field to intentionally blur certain parts of your flat lay. This technique can add a sense of depth and dimension, as the blurred elements provide a visual separation from the sharp ones. Experiment with different angles and distances to achieve the desired effect.
• Consider the distance: The distance between your prop and the camera can also impact the depth of field. The closer the object is to the camera, the shallower the depth of field will be. Conversely, increasing the distance between the camera and the props will result in a deeper depth of field.

Remember, mastering depth of field allows you to control what is in focus and what is blurred in your travel flat lays. By adjusting the aperture settings, focusing on the main element, creating intentional blur, and considering the distance between objects and the camera, you can create visually appealing compositions with a sense of depth and dimension.

Incorporating Unique Angles

Adding unique angles to your travel flat lays can bring a fresh perspective and make your compositions visually interesting. Here are some tips for incorporating unique angles in your flat lays:

• Overhead shot: The overhead shot is a classic and popular angle for flat lays. It provides a bird’s-eye view of your composition, showcasing all the elements in a clean and organized manner. Use a step stool or table to position yourself directly above the flat lay and capture the scene from a higher vantage point.
• Low-angle shot: Switch things up by getting down low and shooting your flat lay from a lower angle. This can add a sense of depth and drama to your composition. Place the camera or phone on the ground or use a tripod to capture the scene from a low perspective.
• Side angle shot: Experiment with capturing your flat lay from a side angle. This can provide a different view of the props and create interesting lines and shapes in the composition. Play with the placement of objects and props to guide the viewer’s eye in a specific direction.
• Diagonal shot: Angle your camera or phone diagonally across the flat lay for a dynamic composition. This helps create movement and visual interest. Use leading lines or diagonal placement of props to guide the viewer’s eye through the scene.

Remember, incorporating unique angles adds variety and creativity to your travel flat lays. Experiment with overhead shots, low-angle shots, side-angle shots, and diagonal shots to find the angles that best showcase your props and tell your story. By exploring different perspectives, you can capture attention and create visually captivating flat lays that stand out from the crowd.

Editing and Enhancing Your Flat Lays

Editing and enhancing your travel flat lays can take your compositions to the next level and make them truly stand out. Here are some tips for editing and enhancing your flat lays:

• Adjust brightness and contrast: Use editing software or apps to fine-tune the brightness and contrast of your flat lay. Increase the brightness to make the image pop, and adjust the contrast to enhance the visual impact of the props and colors.
• Enhance colors: Play around with the saturation and vibrance settings to enhance the colors in your flat lay. You can make the colors more vibrant and saturated or opt for a more muted and desaturated look, depending on the mood and aesthetic you want to convey.
• Crop and straighten: Use cropping and straightening tools to refine the composition and eliminate any distractions or unwanted elements. This can help create a clean and well-balanced flat lay that draws the viewer’s eye to the main elements.
• Apply filters or presets: Experiment with different filters or presets to add a unique and cohesive style to your flat lay. Filters can enhance the mood or create a specific look that aligns with your branding or personal aesthetic. However, use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the overall composition.
• Remove imperfections: If there are any minor imperfections in your flat lay, such as dust or stray hairs, use the healing or cloning tool in your editing software to remove them. This will ensure a clean and polished final image.

Remember, editing and enhancing your flat lays allows you to refine and elevate your compositions. Adjust the brightness and contrast, enhance colors, crop and straighten, apply filters or presets, and remove imperfections to create a visually stunning flat lay that is eye-catching and professional-looking.

Sharing Your Stunning Travel Flat Lays

Once you’ve captured and edited your stunning travel flat lays, it’s time to share them with the world. Here are some tips on how to effectively share your travel flat lays:

• Choose the right platform: Consider the platform that best suits your target audience and the type of engagement you’re seeking. Instagram, Pinterest, and photography blogs are popular platforms for sharing visually-focused content like flat lays.
• Write compelling captions: Craft engaging captions that provide context, share your story, and evoke emotion. Use descriptive language, share interesting details about the destination or props, and invite your audience to interact or ask questions.
• Use relevant hashtags: Hashtags help increase the discoverability of your flat lays. Research and use relevant hashtags that are popular within the travel and photography communities. This will help your flat lays reach a wider audience and increase your chances of being featured or noticed by influential accounts.
• Engage with your audience: Respond to comments, answer questions, and engage with your audience. Building a community and fostering connections will not only enhance your online presence but also potentially lead to collaborations, brand partnerships, or opportunities for exposure.
• Collaborate with others: Look for opportunities to collaborate with other travel or photography enthusiasts. This could involve guest posting on each other’s blogs, sharing each other’s flat lays on social media, or participating in joint photography projects. Collaborations can help you reach a wider audience and gain exposure among like-minded individuals.
• Consider storytelling: Don’t just share a single flat lay, but also curate a series of flat lays that tell a narrative or document your travel journey. This can be done through sequential posts or by utilizing the carousel feature on platforms like Instagram. Storytelling adds depth and relatability to your flat lays.

Remember, sharing your travel flat lays is an opportunity to showcase your creativity, inspire others, and build a community. By choosing the right platform, writing compelling captions, using relevant hashtags, engaging with your audience, collaborating with others, and considering storytelling, you can effectively share your stunning travel flat lays and make a lasting impact.

Congratulations! You are now equipped with a wealth of knowledge on how to create stunning travel flat lays that will captivate your audience. By applying the tips and techniques covered in this article, you can elevate your travel photography and tell compelling stories through your compositions.

Remember to start by finding the perfect location that enhances the theme of your flat lay, and carefully select props that complement the narrative you want to share. Pay attention to composition, utilizing unique angles, and mastering depth of field to create visually appealing and dynamic flat lays. Utilize natural light to enhance the mood and atmosphere, and edit your flat lays to refine and enhance their visual impact.

When it comes to sharing your flat lays, choose the right platform, write engaging captions, and use relevant hashtags to increase visibility. Engage with your audience, collaborate with others, and consider incorporating storytelling to create a deeper connection with your followers.

Now it’s time to put these tips into practice and share your stunning travel flat lays with the world. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep experimenting, refining your skills, and capturing the beauty of your travel experiences in unique flat lay compositions. Happy shooting!

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Guide to Flat Lay Photography

Find out the best flat lay photography tips and ideas in this must-read guide! Get started or take your flat lay photos to the next level.

Learn | Photography Guides | By Andy Day

Shotkit may earn a commission on affiliate links. Learn more.

Shotkit is proud to be the home of the camera gear flat lay, so if you’re asking yourself “how do I take a flat lay picture?”, we’ve got the answers you need!

Be sure to click around this site to see inspirational flat lays from photographers of all genres .

So whether you want to learn about flat lay clothing photography , food photography or just just something for your OCD tendencies, there’s something here for you!

Let’s dive into this short guide to get you started.

Table of Contents

What is Flat Lay Photography?

Flat lay photography is shooting a variety of items all laid out on a flat surface — from above.

It creates a bird’s eye view of a still life — and often one that has been carefully constructed to give a sense of balance.

This type of photography has become incredibly popular, particularly on social media, and you’ll find it used on everything from Instagram to corporate websites to personal blogs.

Flat lay photographs are simple, pleasing to the eye, and can be very effective in presenting a product or a feeling.

These photographs are like mood boards, creating a portrait of a person through their belongings, inspiring a vibe or an emotion about an activity, or building a brand around a product — all achieved through props that tie together.

When it comes to flat lay photos, the only limits are your imagination – but there are some basic guidelines and ideas to follow that will help you quickly start producing professional-looking results.

17 Tips for Perfect Flat Lay Photography

Flat lay photography can be as simple as shooting your desk with your smartphone but quickly becomes intricate when you want to start creating more sophisticated setups. These tips will give you a good foundation as you begin your journey.

1. Use a Lot of Light

Credit: Sittig Fahr Becker

Light is key to every photo and flat lay photography is no exception. You’ll need a lot of it, but ideally, it needs to be even and diffused so that your items don’t cast lots of strong shadows.

This type of photography relies on creating a clean look to the items that have been laid out, and shadows can undermine their shape, clog up the scene, and also overlap onto other items causing them to lose their impact. At the same time, we don’t want to eliminate them completely.

If you’re asking yourself “how do I take a flat lay photo without shadows?” there are a few things to consider.

Large windows and skylights can be ideal for natural light, but you’ll want to avoid direct sunlight. If the sun is streaming into your room and creating strong shadows, try hanging some sheer curtains.

This will cut down on the amount of available light, but it will prevent you from having strong shadows — something you definitely want to avoid. If you can’t eliminate the shadows, perhaps try and incorporate them into your scene.

White walls and reflective surfaces in the room that you are shooting can be helpful in making the light feel even.

Avoid using on-camera flash completely as this will create a very directional light and cast very deep shadows with lots of contrast.

Remember: you don’t want to eliminate shadows completely. Shadows should be soft enough to give the props a sense of depth so that the images look real and with a three-dimensional feel, without being so hard that they become distracting.

Think carefully about your lighting and camera settings, and if you need to shoot outdoors, remember that direct sunlight is far from ideal. Shoot in the shade or wait for a cloudy day.

Alternatively, check out our guide: how to build a DIY light box .

2. Choose Your Background Carefully

Credit: Deanna Mushins

The surface on which you are laying out your items is critical, and choosing something with a neutral colour and tone is usually the best bet.

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If the background is too dark, any black or grey items — especially cameras! — can start to disappear and become hard to see.

Bright white backgrounds can create too much contrast, making the surface distracting and jarring on the viewer’s eye.

Wooden textures are very popular, especially given that the best flat lays create a scene that makes you feel like you can reach out and touch.

Wood and concrete can help to give a handmade, artisanal feel to the image, giving a sense of physicality that draws in the viewer.

Sometimes, space might be the determining factor, and you might end up stealing a bedsheet or heading outside and using your neatly cut lawn. Whatever you end up using, try to make sure that it doesn’t distract too heavily from the items that you are laying out.

The background will set the tone for the entire image and the best flat lay photographs have backgrounds that work together with the items that are laid upon them.

3. Create Unity

Credit: zamurovic

Just as the background must work together with the objects that you are laying out, the items must themselves work with each other.

Aim to be able to explain how each creative decision is contributing to the overall piece. Every small detail should be working with the image to create the look and feel that you are trying to achieve.

All of the elements in the photo — from the textures, the background, the choice of colors, and of course the objects themselves — should work together to conjure this feeling. Whether it’s painting a picture of a boutique coffee house, a tattoo artist, or even a corporate office.

4. Create a Mood, a Vibe, a Feeling, an Atmosphere — Not a Photo

Credit: Phil Moore

All of the elements going into creating your flat lay photograph should work together — but towards what?

Flat lay photographs are about constructing something stylised that gives a strong sense of a person, an activity, or a product. What values and ideas do you associate with that subject, and how can you express them through objects?

Remember: people might make things, but things also make people, and flat lay photographs can be an opportunity to paint a portrait of an individual through the items that contribute to their identity.

5. Get High

Credit: Dirk Dallas

For larger flat lays, you’ll need to get some height in your photograph. Standing on a chair is a good option but you might be better off dragging a step ladder from out of your cupboard.

A wide-angle lens will make life a little bit easier, but avoid going too wide as you might start introducing distortion to your images. Any distortion will undermine the geometry of what you have constructed and hinder your quest to nail the perfect flat lay photo.

6. Shoot On a Tripod

Credit: Natalia Y

For smaller still life setups, a tripod can be an essential piece of gear, allowing you to be more precise in your framing and also adjust what you’re creating without having to continually pick up and put down the camera.

You’ll want to choose a tripod that incorporates a horizontal arm so that you can point your camera straight down. A ball head will also make life much easier in finetuning your framing.

Keep in mind that extending the tripod arm with the camera attached can cause the tripod to tip over, so it might be worth investing in a small sandbag as improvised alternatives can often be a recipe for disaster.

Alternatively, you might prefer to take your flat lay photos by rigging up a system that clamps to the edge of your desk.

7. Find Inspiration and Plan as Much as You Can

Credit: rocknwool

The internet is not short of ideas when it comes to flat lay photography and there are countless great examples to be found, particularly on Instagram and Pinterest.

These are valuable sources of inspiration. Pinterest is specifically designed to allow you to gather ideas, and Instagram allows you to save posts to specific collections.

Instagram also has a pile of hashtags related to flat lay photos that you can follow.

8. Don’t Be Afraid to Overflow

Credit: Annie Spratt

A struggle for many of us shooting flat lay photos at home is not having enough space.

Overflowing your frame is one way of getting around this.

For example, a viewer might only need to see the corner of a laptop and its keyboard to understand what it is, saving you from having to include the entire item.

Overflowing can also be a creative choice, prompting the viewer to imagine what’s outside of the frame based on everything that appears within, giving a sense of intrigue to your flat lay photo.

9. Consider Colors

Credit: The Creative Exchange

Because of its often minimal nature, flat lay photography really benefits from bringing some color theory to your images.

This can mean sticking to a series of muted tones and relying on the textures to create interest, or taking inspiration from a color wheel to see which colors work well together.

Or you can abandon traditional principles completely and deliberately choose colors that clash.

Again, your choice of background will have a large influence on how well the colors work together in your chosen theme.

A background with a neutral color — i.e., close to grey — will give you the most flexibility when it comes to placing items, while a vibrant background can help bring drama if the items themselves are comparatively boring in color.

10. Start Minimal

Credit: Icons8 Team

Flat lay photography often relies on items sitting cleanly in their own space, framed by nothing but background. Obviously, this is a rule that you can then go on to break, but aiming for simplicity early on is the groundwork for building up a successful image.

Starting with as few items as possible is a great way to build up a scene. You can then figure out how each new element will work to add to a setup, making them complement what you’ve already put in place rather than having them create clutter.

Be sure to shoot at each stage as you build up your layout. Not only will you come away with more images, but you’ll also continue to learn about how to construct a scene when you come to sit down and edit your images.

11. Create Balance

Credit: Jess Bailey

One of the advantages of embracing minimalism is that it gives you an opportunity to learn how to create a sense of balance in your images. Unfortunately, there’s no specific set of rules of what works, and if there were, many of them would be there to be broken.

That said, you can start by drawing on the principles of photographic composition, such as the rule of thirds, centering, golden ratio, leading lines , and many more.

Editing your work is when you learn most about what works. In this sense, editing doesn’t mean tweaking contrast or lifting shadows, but looking through countless images and figuring out which have a sense of balance and which do not.

You then take those lessons with you into the next shoot.

12. Think Geometrically

Credit: Priscilla Du Preez

The human eye loves geometry. Creating pleasing shapes, clean lines and distinctive angles in your flat lay photography is a shortcut to making engaging, satisfying images.

The frame of your camera — whether it’s square, 3:2 or 4:3 — imposes its own geometry on the scene and this is the foundation which you then build upon. Lines that are parallel with the edge of the frame should be exactly that: parallel. If they’re off by a degree or two, you might start triggering viewers’ OCD.

If you want to create something that is off-kilter, be bold: go for 30 degrees or beyond. 10 degrees will just make people feel uncomfortable that it’s not straight!

Geometry isn’t just about straight lines, 90-degree angles and perfect circles, however. You can make sweeping curves; just be sure that these shapes are strong as less distinct forms can give the image a messy and haphazard feel that undermines the overall composition.

13. Arms and Legs

Credit: Hipster Mum

There’s no reason not to incorporate a model — or even yourself if you have a tripod and timer — into your scene, and it can make the world that you’ve created feel more real and engaging.

Hands holding coffee cups are a popular choice on social media, and while feet and legs can be harder to include, it’s not impossible.

Perhaps the only rule is not to include the top of someone’s head. Climbing into your scene can make for some innovative portraits and selfies, but the top of a head is rarely what a viewer wants to see.

No model? Try photographing your toys by using action figures or Barbie dolls – making them look like real people can be fun and serve as good practice for using all the various lighting techniques.

14. Where Is the Image Going to Appear?

Credit: Beatrice Moricci

How the image is going to be used is going to be fundamental to how you start creating your scene.

Will it be used as a web banner? Or is it going to be uploaded to Instagram?

A web banner needs to be landscape in format, and might even need to have more of a letterbox ratio — even wider than the 3:2 of a camera with an interchangeable lens, and far beyond the 4:3 of many smaller cameras, including smartphones.

By contrast, Instagram lends itself well to square (see above) or 4:5 portrait images – see this guide to social media image sizes .

To help with this, many cameras allow you to set up guides that overlay or even crop the image while you compose it.

15. Try a Flat Lay Video

If you’re wondering how to make your brand stand out, you might be asking yourself “how do I make a flat lay video?” Simple movements and stop motion animation can give your work an edge, especially when you consider that Instagram seems to favor video more and more.

Some of the most creative flat lay videos use stop motion. This is a series of still images that are then edited together to give the illusion of movement.

You simply take a series of photos and convert them into an animated video file. If you want to use them on the web, the best option is to convert your images to an animated GIF.

This can be done in Photoshop, through a smartphone app, or by uploading the images to a website such as imgflip.com .

Note that you can’t upload animated GIFs to Instagram, but there are smartphone apps that will convert your images to video files, or you can drop your images into Windows Movie Maker or iMovie, edit your animation and then export to the right format.

16. One Scene, Multiple Shots

Credit: stockasso

Once you’ve got the shot that you wanted, don’t stop. Grab multiple variations, making small changes to give you lots of options from which to choose later.

It might be that you end up with something that’s even better than your original idea, or you might decide that you want to overlay some graphics and the one you shot later with lots of negative space lends itself perfectly.

17. Edit Your Photos

Credit: Citlalli Rico

The work isn’t done once the image has been captured on your camera. Editing should be a part of your creative process to polish the details.

This can mean throwing on a Lightroom preset to give the photo a certain look and feel, cropping the image to give a better sense of balance, repositioning items slightly using Photoshop, or even using Photoshop’s Transform tool to correct any lines or angles that weren’t quite perfect.

Flat Lay Photography FAQs

What is flat lay photography used for?

Flat lays are used primarily on social media. They’re used by both individuals and businesses to showcase products, convey a mood, or as lifestyle branding. Food and fashion are two particularly popular themes for flat lays.

Why are flat lays so popular?

Flat lays are popular because they’re simple, highly pleasing to the eye, and offer lots of room for creativity. They’re also very effective at presenting products or conveying a mood or theme.

How do you light a flat lay?

Soft, even light is best as you want to avoid hard shadows. You can use natural light from windows or skylights; add sheer curtains if the sun is too strong. If using flash, diffuse the light with a softbox. Lightboxes are also handy for product flat lays.

How do you take flat lay pictures on iPhone?

Lay out your arrangement of objects on a low surface. Next, get up high (you may need to stand on a chair if you can’t fit in the whole picture) and take a photo looking downwards. Be sure to hold the phone parallel to the scene you’re shooting and not on an angle. Avoid using the optical zoom on your phone; it will reduce the quality of the picture and it’s better to capture more space and crop later.

Final Words

As you’ll no doubt find out as soon as you start sifting through Instagram and Pinterest, flat lay photography can be a wonderfully creative and artistic process.

It gives you the chance to create tiny, two-dimensional worlds that convey something unique about someone or something that might not even appear in the image.

Hopefully, this list of flat lay photography tips will give you plenty of inspiration to get started! If you have any questions or other recommendations, feel free to give us a shout in the comments below.

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Andy Day is a British photographer and writing, living and working in France, specialising in adventure, travel, architectural and landscape photography.

Question about the lighting. I want to purchase overhead lighting but I am not sure the kind of light to look for. Do you have any recommendations of something I can purchase on Amazon that may be great for my flat lays? A light box I have, but it’s too small for some larger items I need to photograph.

Much appreciated all the useful information and I am certainly going to try it

Many thanks

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What is flat lay photography?

“Flat lay photographs are taken from a bird’s-eye view,” says blogger and photographer Heather Barnes. “It’s a top-down perspective of objects laid out on a surface in an aesthetically pleasing way.” This type of  still life photography  is popular on social media and can show everything from a layout of cosmetics to an array of camera accessories.

Use flat lay photos for just about anything.

“Flat lays can present a recipe story, a product story, or a ‘what’s in my bag’ story,” says photographer Doaa Elkady. “It’s a really versatile photography style that people gravitate toward, because it’s such an effective means of storytelling.”

Food photography  is ideal for the flat lay technique because it provides a clear way to show a finished product alongside the ingredients. Product photography flat lays can showcase everything from tech to clothing. And DIY or craft flat lay photos are popular with many bloggers who use it to highlight the different items someone needs to complete a project. 

Flat lay photos connect with audiences.

“It isn’t just people selling things. It’s people showing their audience what their world is like, how they stay organized, what a morning looks like for them, or what they take when they travel,” says Elkady. “Flat lay photography has been a great way for people to get to know the person behind the scenes and the world that they live in.”

Flat lays give the creator complete control over the composition, which means complete control over the message the image sends. With the right setup and some simple props, anyone can try the flat lay style at home. That makes it an accessible photography style, and it makes your content relatable, by showing how anyone with the right ingredients or tools can complete a recipe or project.

Equipment for photographing flat lays.

The most important items you need for flat lay photography include a good source of light and a way to hold your camera steadily above the items you shoot.

Invest in a good tripod.

You can take a flat lay simply by holding your phone or camera over an arrangement of items on the floor. However, it can be a challenge to hold your camera completely still and level. A phone or camera tripod that can face downward with a small bubble level will be a huge help. Alternatively, a C-stand — a type of scaffolding for camera equipment — can hold your camera in addition to lights and other equipment.

If you plan to shoot a large array of items or shoot on a raised surface like a table, you may want to invest in a more high-quality tripod or C-stand that can rise up higher than cheaper options. This will give you enough space to shoot large compositions.

“I’ve found that my clients like those larger scenes with lots of objects and lots of storytelling,” says Elkady. “They can get more out of that image. When you have a larger scene, you’re able to crop it into micro scenes, and the content goes further for the client.”

Get a tethering app or cable.

Control your camera from your laptop or mobile device with a digital tethering app or physical cable. You can then adjust camera settings and see your image results without the need to take your camera off its tripod or C-stand.

Photo by Doaa Elkady

Adjust your light.

When possible, set up your flat lay close to a window. The time of day may be a factor in your choice for the shoot depending on the location of your windows. Use a bounce board or reflector across from the window to direct the natural light back toward your setup. A piece of white poster board or foam board can make a great DIY bounce board. Or you can create a  DIY lightbox .

If your windows don’t give you good light, use an artificial light tilted diagonally down toward your arrangement. Soften your light with a diffuser and put a bounce board or reflector across from it to get more even lighting.

Use the right camera lenses and features.

Enable the grid guide on your camera or iPhone and align your most important items on the cross-hairs of the grid. This will help you lay out your composition according to  the rule of thirds . With the right lens, you can capture your entire flat lay without distortion.

“I usually use a 50mm lens,” says Barnes. “Because anything wider than that gets distorted around the edges, and anything closer in, like a 100mm, is just too close up.”

Prepping for great flat lay photos.

The flat lay style is built around a narrative. “I think of my story, and that helps me bring in my supporting elements,” says Elkady. “Then, after defining the materials, textures, and colors that I want, the fun starts and I begin to arrange.”

1. Choose your story.

Decide on a story to tell, and you can elevate a simple shot of objects to a more engaging image. “Say you want to make a flat lay about oatmeal. Think of what else went into the oatmeal and what you do while you eat it,” says Barnes. “Adding a crossword puzzle and a cup of coffee tells more of a story than just a bowl of oatmeal.”

Photos by Heather Barnes

2. Find your hero item.

The hero item will be the focal point of your image. Use it as your starting point to build your composition and story. “Your hero should typically be the largest thing in your frame,” says Elkady. “You don’t want to overpower it or have anything else upstage it, because that’s where you want the eye to go.”

3. Add supporting elements, color, and texture.

Flat lay photography gives you complete control over your composition, so you can easily explore different themes. “You’re really able to get creative,” says Elkady. “You’ll want to focus on certain colors or create a scene based on a mood.” Texture plays a big role as well, so try props like fabric, paper clippings or confetti, and other loose materials.

In general, tall objects that look their most interesting from the side won’t make for great flat lay props. If you need to use a tall prop, lift and tilt it toward the camera lens. This can help with perspective and distortion.

Style the perfect shot.

It can be hard to know how to arrange your items. Start with the  basic rules of photo composition , and don’t be afraid to have some of your items peeking partially into the frame. “I like to add in all the items I want to include. And then slowly take them away one at a time, just to simplify it,” says Barnes.

Photo by Heather Barnes

Don’t overcrowd your image.

Look for the right balance between a minimalist scene and a crowded scene. “A common mistake I see is either leaving too much empty space or adding things that don’t need to be there,” says Elkady. “It’s fun to use all your props, but they need to have a purpose and not take away from your subject.”

Explore common layout shapes.

“Shapes guide our eyes naturally, so placing your supporting elements in ways that mimic the shapes in our everyday lives — you can’t go wrong with that,” says Elkady. Use the following layouts as a starting point:

• C-shaped flat lay
• V-shaped flat lay
• S-curve flat lay
• Triangular placement flat lay
• Circular or curved placement flat lay
• Parallel lines flat lay

Play with layers.

“Layering is a great way to add visual interest,” says Elkady. “For example, with food, you can layer a plate over another plate or put a dish on a tray. “This creates depth in the image and helps the scene look natural.” Cutting boards, hand towels, sheets of colored paper, or vintage books and magazines can all make wonderful flat lay background layers.

Editing flat lay photography.

From adjusting brightness to adding watermark graphics, photo editing in  Adobe Photoshop Lightroom  and adding elements in Adobe Photoshop can help you bring your flat lay vision to life.

Crop to improve the composition.

Cropping out items fully or partially can be the key to the perfect flat lay image. “I find that it’s important to have some objects only partially in the frame, so it looks like there’s a larger scene going on, and that draws the viewer into it,” says Barnes. 

Establish your personal style with presets.

In Lightroom, you can adjust things like exposure, contrast, clarity, saturation, vibrance, shadows, white point, and black point. When you settle on a look you love,  create your own preset  that you can easily apply to your other shots.

Add overlays of text or graphics.

Easily add branding and text in Photoshop. Flat lay images often have room for text and logos, so they can make great backdrops for fliers, postcards, and digital banners for social media and the web.

Dive in and get started.

Take your first steps with this fun photography style and brainstorm to create story ideas and collect inspiration and props. “Moodboards are great,” says Barnes. “And I collect a lot of pieces of ephemera, like scraps of paper or fabric swatches.”

There’s so much room to create with flat lay photography. Follow your imagination and see what story you can tell with a few simple elements.

Contributors

Heather Barnes ,  Doaa Elkady

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What is a Flat Lay Photo and How to Shoot It

• by Angel Jiménez de Luis @angeljimenez

Learn to create these popular images and bring your Instagram profile and other social networks to life

Flat lay photography is one of the most popular styles on social networks, especially on Instagram. It provides an ideal way to present products, projects under development or travel arrangements.

Mina Barrio ( @minabarrio ) , product photographer at Melon Blanc studio, tells you everything you need to know about this approach and how to easily create the most striking flat lays using only your phone.

What is flat lay photography

Flat lay photography is a type of composition that arranges objects on a flat surface, with an aesthetic intent, for a photo to be taken from above (zenith).

Mina encourages you to unleash your creativity when composing a flat lay, creating an environment with surreal or fun touches, or one that conveys certain values ​​or emotions.

Composition tips

1. Before you begin, do research and seek inspiration online.

2. On paper or in your mind, create a grid on the background space.

3. Place the objects in separate focal points and following the order of the reticle.

4. Take into account your photography style, as well as the essential characteristics of the product you are going to photograph.

5. Think about the message you want to convey so you can incorporate suitable attractive elements in the composition.

Steps to make your flat lay

1. Buy a solid colored paper at an art store. They usually come in sizes various sizes. If you get a smaller size, use two pieces taped together.

2. Look for the objects you are going to photograph and present them with other elements that highlight them, such as plants or office supplies.

3. Place the paper on the floor. Make sure the background color contrasts with the colors of the object.

4. Decide your framing. You can make a horizontal frame and then crop it for a square format if needed.

5. Check the framing on your phone and fix the position of the different items.

6. Be sure to raise flat objects to prevent unwanted shadows.

Take the flat lay photo

1. Check your light sources.

2. Play with the focus function of your phone to set the correct exposure.

3. Lean your body forward so that the photo is as top-down as possible and does not change the perspective of the objects.

4. Take the picture!

Here are some examples of the flat lay photography Mina has taken:

If you want to learn more tricks to make and edit amazing photographs for your social networks, sign up for the course Professional Photography for Instagram by Mina Barrio.

You may also like:

- 10 Creative Accounts You Should Be Following On Instagram. - Instagram Tutorial: 5 Tips to Create Your Own style. - 5 Tips to Succeed on Instagram in 2020.

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Flat Lay Photography: 10 Styles And Tips Featuring 3 Notable Photographers

The Art of Flat Lay Photography

Welcome to the wonderful world of Flat Lay Photography! Step into an adventure that celebrates the art of seizing stunning visuals from a unique perspective. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the intricacies of flat-lay photography, offering valuable tips and insights to enhance your skills and transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary compositions.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer exploring new horizons or a novice venturing into the fascinating world of flat lay, join us as we uncover the secrets behind creating visually striking flat lay images. Enjoy watching our carefully curated videos that showcase the versatility and creativity of flat-lay photography. Learn about the diverse aspects of this enchanting art through our article that spans 58 Types of Photography .

As you aspire to craft captivating visual stories through flat lay, accompany us on this creative journey! Engage in our Ongoing Competitions and exhibit your artistic flair, all while reveling in the satisfaction of preserving the charm of flat-lay photography. Prepare to compose, capture, and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Flat Lay Photography!

2. Mandy Gleason (Replica Surfaces)

Mandy Gleason, the creative force behind Replica Surfaces, is a flat-lay photographer renowned for her exceptional eye for crafting visually stunning compositions. Through her expertise, she brings an artistic touch to every surface, transforming ordinary scenes into extraordinary visual stories. Gleason’s dedication to the art of flat-lay photography shines through in her innovative use of textures, colors, and meticulous arrangement, making her a trailblazer in the field. Work Gallery

Skyler Burt, a renowned flat-lay photographer, intricately weaves visual stories through his artistry. With a keen eye for composition and masterful use of light and shadows, Burt’s flat-lay creations transcend the ordinary, inviting viewers into a world of amazing aesthetics. His distinctive style and innovative approach make him a trailblazer in this field, inspiring photographers to push the boundaries of their creativity. Work Gallery

5 Captivating Flat Lay Photography Styles

Explore the diverse world of flat-lay photography with our guide to Unique Flat Lay Styles. Whether arranging compelling compositions within the confines of your space or snapping the dynamic interplay of objects in outdoor settings, each style invites you to enrich your creative perspective by seizing the authentic beauty of objects through your camera lens.

1. Minimalist Flat Lay

In conclusion, you can excel in your Flat Lay Photography with our comprehensive guide. We’ve distilled essential tips to elevate your skills and photograph stunning flat-lay compositions. From mastering the art of arranging objects with precision to playing with shadows and textures, our advice is meticulously crafted to enhance your flat-lay photography prowess.

Discover a spectrum of styles, from minimalist setups to vibrant and intricate arrangements, and watch specially curated tutorials that unravel the nuances of creating visually striking flat-lay images. Whether you’re a seasoned flat-lay photographer or just stepping into this visually appealing field, our guide caters to all levels, offering a wealth of tips, styles, and resources to enrich your creative exploration in the fascinating world of flat-lay photography.

If you’re eager to showcase your newfound expertise, seize the opportunity to participate in our Ongoing Competitions . It’s more than a chance to exhibit your talent; it’s an invitation to connect with like-minded enthusiasts and revel in the excitement of creative exploration in the field of flat-lay photography with us!

Extra Lessons

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Flat Lay Photography

How To Make The Perfect Flatlay Photography Setup

Flat Lay Photography Ideas (15 Inspiring Flat Lay Photographs)

Editor’s Key Takeaways: Mastering Flat Lay Photography: Techniques and Inspiration

This blog post explains how to achieve excellent flat lay photography. Flat lay is a unique style of photography where objects are laid out on a flat surface and photographed overhead. There are two general steps to capturing stunning flat lays:

• Use Simple Objects for Incredible Flat Lay Photography: Here, the focus is on the selection of the objects to be photographed. They should tell a story and have alignment with each other. Use everyday items around you like food, stationery, and household items. Remember to keep it simple and ensure the objects make sense together.
• Arrange the Objects to Create a Powerful Flat Lay Photo: In this step, the arrangement of objects for the photo takes the foreground. The arrangement of the objects is challenging but equally fun. The blog post suggests creating a balance to keep images interesting, light flat lay with natural indoor light, and use a tripod for overhead shooting.

In conclusion, flat lay photography, while seemingly simple, requires thoughtfulness in the selection and arrangement of objects, and correct equipment use to achieve stunning photos.

Introduction

Do you want to capture incredible flat lay photography ? And do you want to see some examples of inspiring flat lay photo ideas ?

In this article, you’ll discover several techniques for gorgeous flat lay images. For instance, you’ll learn how to shoot flat lays without a shadow–which is often tough for beginners. And you’ll learn the gear you need to capture stunning flat lay images.

(Hint: Flat lays don’t have to be expensive!)

We’ll close with some flat lay images that you’ll absolutely love (and that will inspire you to get out and shoot!).

Sound good?

Let’s dive right in.

What is Flat Lay Photography?

First things first:

Flat lay is a unique style of photography. You lay objects out on a flat surface–then you photograph them from an overhead perspective .

It gives you photos like this:

But how do you create a stunning flat lay photo ?

Capture Stunning Flat Lays (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: use simple objects for incredible flat lay photography.

To shoot a flat lay photo, you will first need to choose your objects.

These objects will set the scene. They’ll create mood. They’ll create emotion.

In fact, a flat lay photograph often tells a story. So the objects you choose should go well together.

On the other hand, you don’t need to purchase a bunch of objects. A flat lay photo can be composed of items you already own. Things like household objects, flowers, makeup, office supplies, books, food and more.

It’s also important to have a bit of variation among your objects–but not too much. You don’t want to put a pencil cup and some sliced melon together. The story just won’t make sense!

Remember: Have alignment among your objects. You must tell a story!

Then, once you’ve chosen your objects, you need to move on to:

Step 2: Arrange the Objects to Create a Powerful Flat Lay Photo

This is the most fun part of flat lay photography.

It’s also the most challenging.

You must arrange your flat lay carefully–so that you create a powerful composition. One that draws the viewer in.

Now, the best flat lay shots have a sense of order to them. They also have a bit of randomness. Shots that are too carefully composed look…static.

One tip is to try to create some balance throughout your flat lay. If you add a flower to one side of the composition, add a book to the other side.

Another tip is to simply experiment. Put down a few items, then move them around on your worktop. See what compositions you create.

Eventually, something will stand out.

And that’s when you should take your shot.

Step 3: Use Diffused Light to Avoid Object Shadows

One of the reasons beginners often struggle with flat lay photography…

…is that the flat lay objects cause shadows. And these shadows ruin the photos.

Fortunately, there’s a simple way to avoid flat lay shadows:

Use diffused light.

Now, diffused light is beautiful and soft. Cloudy days are great for this. The clouds act as giant softboxes, turning the light from harsh sunlight to wonderful diffused light.

Therefore, to avoid shadows, you can simply work outdoors on a cloudy day.

You can also create diffused light by hanging some drapes or white sheets between your flat lay and the light. This is another effective way of preventing shadows. And it’s something you can implement no matter the weather.

One last technique for diffused lighting:

Shoot by a north-facing or south-facing window. That way, the sun won’t shine directly into the room. You’ll get some light, but it’ll be soft and pleasant.

Perfect for flat lay photography!

Related Article: Natural Light Photography Tips

Step 4: Use the Camera You Already Have for Beautiful Flat Lays

People often think that flat lay photography requires expensive gear–cameras, lenses, a tripod, the works.

But in reality…

…you can do flat lay photography with any camera. Including the one on your mobile phone!

I actually like using a mobile phone for flat lays. Here’s why:

Mobile phones have wide-angle lenses. So it’s easy to hold your mobile camera over the flat lay–and then snap a picture. You won’t have to crane your neck. You won’t have to set up a cumbersome tripod.

But point-and-shoot cameras (and DSLRs or mirrorless cameras ) will work, too. I recommend using a lens in the wide to standard range (like a 35mm or 50mm ). This will help you get an image of the entire flat lay, but won’t cause too much distortion.

I also recommend you use the live-view mode on your camera, which will allow you to view the scene in real time. That way, you can get a good sense of the composition (without having to repeatedly bend over).

One question flat lay photographer get asked is:

Do you need a tripod?

The short answer: It depends.

If you’re often shooting in darker areas (for instance, by a window on a very cloudy day), you’ll want to have a tripod on hand. That way, you can use a narrow aperture (in the f/11 to f/16 range) to capture a sharp photo.

However, if you’re shooting in brighter light (for instance, outside on a bright but cloudy day), you may not need a tripod. It’s possible you’ll have enough light to take beautiful photos. It just requires a bit of experimentation.

15 Inspiring Flat Lay Photographs

So now you know a secret:

It’s actually quite easy to create stunning flat lay photos!

You just have to find some subjects, do some experimenting, and have a lot of fun.

But if you’re struggling to come up with flat lay objects or compositions, here are 15 flat lay photos…

(Which are guaranteed to ignite your creativity!)

Shannon Ciricillo is photographer working with digital and film formats, she is currently based in New York City.

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2 thoughts on “Flat Lay Photography Ideas (15 Inspiring Flat Lay Photographs)”

Hi Shannon, I’m trying to achieve the dark background look that you have so beautifully captured. My background is coming up in grays. I’m using a Nikon D-80 or a IPhone 13. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks, Carol

gorgeous photos — thank you for the inspiration!

Flat Lay Photography: The Ultimate Guide (+ 8 Tips)

A Post By: Lily Sawyer

In recent years, flat lay photography has exploded in popularity. When done well, flat lay shots get tons of attention on social media – plus they’re a great way to please product, food, and other commercial photography clients.

But for those exploring the genre for the first time, capturing beautiful flat lays can seem frustrating, even impossible. There’s so much to consider, from subject choice and compositional arrangements to lighting and colors, that many photographers give up without really giving the flat lay approach a chance.

That’s where this article should help you out. I discuss all of the basics, and I also include plenty of flat lay examples so you can see exactly what my advice can do for your photos.

Let’s dive right in.

What is flat lay photography?

Flay lay photography refers to photos where subjects are arranged on a flat surface and photographed from above, with the camera pointing downward. The flat surface and the camera sensor are perfectly parallel; therefore, all objects are captured using a top-down, or bird’s-eye, view, like this:

But while flat lay does involve arranging subjects on a flat surface, this does not mean your image should look flat. Some flat lay photos look flat, of course, but others have lots of depth, and I later discuss how to achieve interesting flat lay shots while still maintaining plenty of three-dimensionality.

Note that flat lay images must be captured from above the flat surface, but this can be at any distance. Yes, most flat lay photography is shot from a few feet above a table arrangement, but this isn’t a requirement. If you have a drone camera, for instance, you can shoot landscapes and mansions in a flat lay fashion!

Flat lay photography subjects: What can you shoot?

Because flat lay photography is a broad genre, you can shoot just about anything – assuming you can arrange it (or find it arranged) on a flat surface.

Here are a few potential subjects to consider:

Flat lay portrait photography features people lying in the grass or in the bed, generally taken with wide-angle lenses from above.

(Pro tip: When doing flat lay portraits, be sure to watch your shadow carefully and ensure it doesn’t end up in the final photo.)

Newborns are easier to photograph from the necessary angle because they’re small. You can capture their entire bodies plus a background from a short distance; in fact, you can easily do newborn flat lay photography with a 50mm lens:

But you can capture kids and adults in flat lay poses, too, assuming they’re willing to lie down on the ground.

You can photograph just about any object in the flat lay style; these images are generally referred to as flat lay still lifes .

This is probably the simplest way to get started with flat lay photography: just find some objects that interest you, arrange them on a bit of colored paper or fabric, then shoot from above.

The photo below required very little work, and I photographed in a bright and evenly lit space for a nice result:

Flat lay food photography is popular, it’s easy to do, and it looks amazing. You’ve probably seen plenty of flat lay food examples (they’re everywhere on Instagram!).

A plate of food is small enough to snap a quick photo, and because we naturally arrange our food on flat surfaces – the table – food flat lays require minimal work.

In fact, if you photograph food while dining out in a restaurant, you can just point your camera and shoot, as the food will generally be well presented on the plate. That’s how I captured the three photos displayed below. They were shot in a restaurant with zero styling on my part:

Though you can also take a more involved approach, where you make the food, then arrange it in your own studio (or kitchen), potentially even with artificial lighting.

Flowers are packed with texture and color, and they offer limitless styling possibilities. They look great no matter what you do to them, so as long as you find a nice flat lay background and you spend a bit of time thinking about your arrangement, you’re bound to come away with good results.

You can cut flowers from your garden, or you can buy some at your local grocery store. Then put them on the floor, do some beautiful arranging, grab a wide-angle lens, and take some shots!

I shot this next photo on the floor of a hotel room using a 24-70mm lens (at around 35mm):

My final favorite flat lay subject is jewelry, and while it’s a bit more unconventional, jewelry flat lays are a great way to have fun on a rainy day.

I love juxtaposing jewels and metallic textures with soft fabrics, as the layering of textures creates tons of interest. Notice the contrast between the jewelry and the background fabric in the left-hand image below:

One quick tip: If you go the jewelry route, pay careful attention to your lighting. You don’t want to get blown-out highlights from a too-harsh light above a shiny ring, necklace, or clasp. If you’re using artificial light, add a softbox to your flash to soften the effect. And if you’re using natural light, be sure to shoot when the sky is cloudy or when the light isn’t hitting the jewelry directly.

Flat lay photography tips

In this section, I share a handful of practical tips to get you improving your flat lay photography, starting with:

1. For the best flat lay compositions, layer your items

Beginners often struggle when attempting to arrange flat lay elements, but in my experience, arrangement is easier than you think – you just need to get started, move around your subjects, and see how things look.

Over time, however, I do recommend you begin to layer your subjects. Make sure that some overlap others, like this:

Notice the multiple layers? I’ve added the dark blue background as the bottom layer, the fairy lights and decorations as the second layer, the food as the third layer, and finally, hands as the fourth and top layer.

And the result is a flat lay photo with lots of movement – the overlaps guide the eye around the frame – and lots of depth, as the overlap creates an illusion of three-dimensionality.

By the way, if you only have a few items to work with but you really want to create layers, you can always shoot at a wide aperture to create a very shallow depth of field effect :

For the photo above, I didn’t have much in the way of layers. But by using a wide aperture, I was able to blur out part of the rose, which became an additional layer that I incorporated into my composition.

2. Use the composition basics

Flat lay composition starts with layers – but what if you want to create more sophisticated results? What then?

Well, composition in flat lay photography is pretty much identical to composition in standard photography, which means that you can rely on helpful compositional guidelines, like symmetry, the rule of thirds , and the rule of odds to get pleasing images.

For instance, you can identify the focal point of your arrangement, then position it along a rule of thirds gridline for a well-balanced effect.

Or you can take your focal point and place it smack-dab in the middle of your shot for an in-your-face, symmetrical look.

Here is a rule-of-thirds style image, followed by a symmetrical photo:

At the end of the day, well-executed compositions will hugely elevate your photos, so it pays to spend time painstakingly arranging your elements before taking a single shot.

One final note: It’s easier to play around with composition when you have a variety of objects to use. Sometimes, adding additional items can be helpful!

3. Aim for a neutral focal length

Choosing the right lens for flat lay photography is crucial. A telephoto focal length – such as 100mm – is often too long, making it challenging to capture the entire scene from above. Conversely, a wide-angle lens, like 35mm or wider, can introduce unwanted distortion, especially in scenes with depth.

But a 50mm lens often hits the sweet spot for flat lays. It allows you to cover a large area without getting excessively high above your setup. And the 50mm focal length minimizes distortion while providing a natural perspective, akin to what the human eye sees.

Plus, 50mm lenses are quite affordable and tend to offer excellent image quality, which makes them ideal for those new to flat lay photography.

Of course, you can always experiment with other focal lengths – maybe you like the distortion that a wide-angle lens can create, or perhaps you enjoy cropping in tight with a telephoto lens – but when in doubt, 50mm is a good way to go!

3. Don’t be afraid to use your smartphone

Yes, professional flat lay photographers tend to work with full-frame DSLR and mirrorless cameras, but did you know that you can capture images of comparable quality using just a smartphone?

It’s true. Assuming your lighting is good, then you can get stunning flat lays simply by holding your phone above your subject and shooting. (In line with the previous tip, I recommend using your phone’s 2x zoom, if it has one – this will generally give you a field of view akin to a 50mm lens.)

Smartphone flat lay photography is insanely convenient, too. If you’re out at a restaurant and you love the look of the food, just pull out your phone, and – snap! – you’ve got the shot.

Note that you will struggle to take beautiful smartphone flat lays in low light, however. Always pay careful attention to the light, and do what you can to ensure your subjects are illuminated by beautiful artificial or natural lighting.

Speaking of which:

4. Choose your lighting carefully

In addition to your flat lay compositional techniques and equipment, you must think about the light. Specifically, you should always keep in mind:

• How much light is present
• How soft or hard it is
• The direction from which the light hits the subject

First and foremost, make sure you have enough light to shoot. I don’t recommend shooting flat lays at night; instead, work in the day when you have plenty of ambient lighting to brighten up your subjects.

(The exception, of course, is if you’re a studio photographer. You can capture beautiful flat lays whenever you want with the right artificial lighting.)

Next, ask yourself:

What quality of light am I after?

Hard light will produce intense shadows, which are great for a dramatic, edgier look. Soft light will produce soft, even lighting with limited shadows.

Neither type of light is better than the other, and there’s a place for both hard and soft light, but if you’re not sure which direction to consider, go with soft lighting. It’s flattering, it looks amazing, and it’s commonly used by professionals.

To get soft light, by the way, you’ll want to either shoot on cloudy days or add a diffuser over your artifical lights.

Finally, you should think about the direction of the light. Sidelight is a great way to add three-dimensionality and texture, while backlight produces extra drama.

For the baby photo below, the room was bright and airy. The main light came from a huge window on the left, which offered beautiful diffused lighting. Thanks to the diffusion, the shadows are subtle.

These images, on the other hand, were taken with a slightly harder light source, hence the darker shadows:

5. Don’t forget about contrast

Flat lay beginners often get hung up on lighting and composition. Don’t get me wrong, those elements are exceedingly important – but even if you nail the lighting and the composition, I’d urge you to spend some time thinking about contrast , because the difference between a mediocre flat lay and a great flat lay is often due to careful use of contrasting elements.

Specifically, for the best results, you need to create plenty of pop between main subjects, as well as between main subjects and the background.

And you can do that by selecting subjects and backgrounds with distinctive colors, tones, and textures.

For instance, light subjects work well against dark backgrounds:

And smooth, soft subjects work well against rough backgrounds:

Notice how, in the images above, I made sure to avoid monotone color schemes; instead, I combined contrasting colors, such as blue and pink or red and green.

Because the more contrast you can add, the better!

6. Shoot a flat lay series

If you’re the kind of person who likes to really dig into the different possibilities that a genre can offer, then I have good news: with flat lay photography, creating a single image is just the beginning.

You see, instead of stopping after one shot, you can have fun developing a narrative with your flat lay subjects, where you capture several images that are meant to be displayed side by side. This approach can help you add depth to your photoshoot, and it can be particularly effective when shooting food or showcasing products.

To craft a compelling series, I encourage you to start with a central theme or idea, then arrange your items in ways that help your story unfold. For instance, in a food flat lay, you could start with untouched dishes, then progress to partially eaten plates, and end with empty, crumb-strewn tableware.

You can plan out your series in advance, but I’d also like to emphasize that experimentation is key . Sometimes the best narratives emerge through trial and error. Arrange, photograph, then reassess. This iterative process can reveal surprising patterns or stories you hadn’t anticipated. The goal is to create a sequence that, when viewed together, offers more insight and engagement than a single image can offer!

7. Try tethering

Tethering isn’t a technique that’s known by many beginners – but in my experience, it can absolutely transform your flat lay photography by offering a more precise way to compose and review shots.

The idea behind tethering is simple: You connect your camera to a computer so that you can review your images on the larger screen moments after they’re taken. In other words, after you press the shutter button on your camera (or on your computer – tethering generally offers full computer control over your camera settings!), you can see the image appear in its entirety in your tethering program, where you can zoom in to check details, make edits, and even export for sharing.

As you can probably imagine, tethering has many advantages, but the biggest benefit is that seeing your images on a bigger screen makes it easier to spot details that might go unnoticed on your camera’s LCD. This immediate feedback loop enables quick adjustments, ensuring each element in your flat lay is perfectly placed and lit.

Plus, while tethering might sound complicated, getting started might be easier than you think. Many modern cameras offer wireless connectivity – and once you set up a connection between your camera and your PC, you’ll basically be good to go!

8. Don’t forget about post-processing!

Post-processing might seem unimportant, especially if you get everything right in camera – but for flat lay photographers seeking refined, polished, professional-looking photos, it’s an essential part of the workflow. Even with meticulous planning and execution, some adjustments in post-processing are often necessary to achieve perfect tones and colors in your images.

So how should you edit your flat lay shots? Every photographer develops their own preferred workflow over time, but if you’re not sure where to start, I’d recommend beginning with a compositional evaluation. In other words, is your image strongly composed, or could a crop help balance or simplify the scene more? This step is crucial for eliminating distractions and focusing the viewer’s attention on the main subjects.

Next, consider the image’s tones and contrast. Adjusting these can add depth and mood to your flat lays, highlighting (or deemphasizing) different parts of the image.

Color grading is a more advanced tool, but once you get comfortable with basic edits, it’s definitely worth considering. You see, by manipulating colors – often in the highlights and shadows – you can create distinctive looks that make your flat lays stand out. The technique can evoke different atmospheres, from warm and inviting to cool and minimalist, depending on your vision.

At the end of the day, post-processing should be an important part of your workflow, but you don’t need to spend long hours behind the computer. A basic set of edits can make a huge difference to your shots (and once you get the hang of processing, you can start creating presets to make things go even faster!).

Flat lay photography: final words

Flat lay photography is lots of fun, plus it’s a wildly creative genre of photography. Hopefully, you found this article useful – and you now feel ready to capture breathtaking shots of your very own.

So don’t dawdle. Grab your camera, find some subjects, creative a flat lay photography setup, and start taking some images.

Now over to you:

What do you plan to shoot in your flat lay photos? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Read more from our Tips & Tutorials category

is a wedding and portrait photographer based in London. Her absolute favourite past time is going on “mummy” dates with her kids and husband. Other than that, as a homebody, she is content curled up on the sofa, hot chocolate in hand, watching films with her family whenever she has a free weekend. Check out her work on www.lilysawyer.com Follow her on her fave social media platform Instagram .

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8 Genius Travel Flat Lay Tips For Creating Swoon-worthy Instagram Photos

If you’re anything like me, when you travel, you can never take enough pictures… but when you get home, you find most of your snapshots don’t quite do your trip justice. Details tend to fade away in group pictures, and a selfie can only say so much.

That’s where travel flat lays come in. They’re an on-trend, artsy way to highlight specific parts of your trip. They let you zero in on the little moments that make a trip shine so that you can remember every minute of your trip better than ever before – and share those perfect moments on Instagram, of course.

Choose a Theme

Trying to fit everything about your trip into one single shot is a losing battle. Unless you had a really boring trip (which I sincerely hope you didn’t), you’d find yourself cramming way too many unrelated items into a single frame. Your viewers won’t know what to focus on, and your travel flat lay won’t have a focal point.

Instead, focus on a specific part of your trip – a meal you ate , a great day at the beach , or a particularly fruitful shopping spree . It can even be as simple as a single outfit you wore on a night out. Think of it as telling a short story about a part of your trip.

Deciding on a theme will guide what you include in the picture, how you arrange the objects and even the tone you choose in your filter. After determining what items to include, play around with how they’re placed. That can do a lot to change what viewers notice first and how they take in the story you’re telling them. For instance, are items falling out of a bag haphazardly? Is everything in a neat little row? The same items can tell people completely different things based on how they’re arranged.

Stick to a Color Scheme

Pick 2 or 3 colors to focus on. If you’re stumped, take a look at a color wheel and choose a handful of colors that are either right next to each other or are complete opposites.

No matter what’s in your travel flat lay, sticking to a color scheme will make your final shot look more curated, polished, and upscale. This is especially true if you’re using bright statement colors. Too many vibrant colors can be hard on the eyes, and you want people to be able to admire your photos and drink in all the details!

Choose a Neutral Background

Most professional travel flat lays have a neutral background. This can be a neutral color (black, white, or gray), a classic, minimalist pattern (like polka dots or marble), or a solid color that goes well with your color scheme (something easy on the eyes like a pastel).

Sometimes, a neutral background can be a part of the picture itself. If you’re photographing a meal, use the plain table as your background. Are you taking a picture of beach day ? Use the sand.

Use Natural Light

You’d be surprised how much lighting can do to make or break a photo. Artificial light can make your pictures look yellow and less vibrant, especially if you’re using your cell phone camera.

Good lighting is essential for travel flat lays, where the items in the picture tell the whole story. You want everything in your image to be easy to see. Use natural, even sunlight. Pick a spot free of harsh shadows – unless that’s part of the picture you’re trying to take, like the shadows cast by tree branches.

Bring in Wildlife

Travel flat lays are a form of still life photography, and still life has a long tradition of immortalizing ephemeral pieces , like plants and items from nature. Incorporating a taste of the outdoors can give your shot a sense of time and place. Don’t be afraid to pick up an interesting pebble, unusual plants or leaves, or a few seashells off the beach , and add them into your travel flat lays. They’ll add freshness to your shot.

Add Hands into the Frame

Traditionally, travel flat lays often don’t have any people in them. But rules are made to be broken! If you’re taking pictures of a specific meal you ate on your trip, ask a travel buddy to adjust a napkin or hold the cup in the frame. Showing hands interacting with the items in a flat lay instills a sense of life and movement to the otherwise-inanimate objects. It also gives the viewer a sense of scale, which can be helpful if you’re photographing something where size is an important detail – like a giant teddy bear you won at a fair or an adorably tiny pair of macarons .

If you’re traveling alone or can’t find a willing participant (or just want to show off a gorgeous vacay manicure), don’t worry – you’re not out of luck. Prop up your phone at the angle you want, set a timed shutter release ( most smartphone cameras have this feature nowadays), and use your own hands.

Include Items of Your Wardrobe

Travel flat lays traditionally don’t include people. But obviously, part of the story you’re telling is about you . It’s your trip, after all! Even if clothing isn’t the focus of your picture, try incorporating relevant clothing items into the shot. This brings a bit of yourself into the photo without literally getting you into the shot.

Enjoying the sunshine? Toss in a pair of sunglasses or sandals. Did you get caught in the rain? Include your umbrella. If it’s still wet, even better, it’ll add visual texture. Spending the day at Disney ? Pop in some mouse ears.

Highlight the Little Things

The best flat lays are a little slice of life, a snapshot of a recognizable moment in your trip. When people see your travel flat lay, you want them to think, “Oh, I know exactly what’s going on here!” It might even remind them of a specific day they’ve had traveling. And part of telling those tiny stories includes details.

Flat lays give you the chance to highlight details that generally go unnoticed in photos. A piece of sentimental jewelry, the shine on a juicy mango, a drip on an ice cream cone, a bus ticket, a few crumbs left over from a snack – they can all evoke something about your travels. Even mundane things like receipts can make a flat lay feel more authentic and relatable.

If you’re feeling stumped putting together a flat lay at the end of a long day, think of it as a page in a scrapbook. Half the charm of scrapbooks is finding old details you thought you’d discarded. Flat lays can be the same way.

There’s so much more to document your vacation than just selfies and group photos. Flat lays are a fantastic way to get a little artistic and creative while commemorating your trip. And creating an enviable travel flat lay is within reach, with just a few tips.

Are you a travel flat lay expert? Do you love seeing other people’s flat lays but are too nervous about posting your own? Tell us about your favorite vacay flat lays below!

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7 Styles of Flat Lay & How to Shoot them

I love a good flat lay, there is something really visually appealing about them and I follow quite a few flat lay accounts plus share my own flat lays on my instagram too. There are so many styles of flat lay and I thought I would share my favourite seven and how you can recreate them with some Flat Lay photography tips . I shoot mine with a mixture of my iPhone 7 and my Olympus Pen with just the kit lens on. The iPhone is great for quickly snapping a flat lay but for real sharpness and quality and if I think I'd like to use the image on my blog too, I take it using my Pen and of course utilize the flip screen.

The Casual Outfit Flat lay

This style of casual fashion flat lay looks so simple and so lazy but I think its actually the hardest to master. To get that "I just chucked my clothes on the bed" takes quite a lot of arranging! I like to keep it to just top, jeans and shoes with maybe some jewellery, a bag or sunglasses added in. The casual outfit flatlay is great for just sharing what you are going to wear that day and its a style I share a lot.

I find they work best laid on the bed or on the floor and to keep it compact to a square you'll need to fold your jeans or trousers in half and I think tops look best folded up too but not too neatly. This kind of flat lay doesn't have to be too perfectly laid out, but I find it works best if there is at least some gaps in between items and is nice and bright.

Some great other casual flat lay instagrammers

HANNAH GALE | RACHELJAMES

The Beauty Flat lay

I don't post beauty flat lays too often on my instagram but I like them for blog posts or general social posts. They do take a bit of time as I think makeup and brushes should be nice and clean. use complimenting colours and do have a mix of lids of items on and off. I also love beauty flat lays that have product squeezed or dusted out on the plain surface too.

Include beauty tools like brushes and eyelash curlers etc and in the gaps with petals or confetti. Shoot it from directly above and again try lots of angles and move items around to get it right. Also be careful of reflections in shiny palettes and mirrors. I edit these out it there's anything to obvious. 

Some great beauty flat lay queens PINTSIZEDPHOTO | KATELAVIE

The colourful Flatlay

I don't shoot really bright flat lays often as they don't fit into my white theme but the trick with a colourful flat lay is just to be really brave with colour. You can of course stick to colours in the same shade like lots of pinks or you can choose really bold contrasting colours. These flat lays can be minimalist or as busy as you like and they work great for beauty and for food too.

Shoot with plenty of light so your colours really pop and also play around with angles too, don't feel they have to be straight.

Ladies keeping it colourful on their insta.

LABELSFORLUNCH | HARTBYHAYLEY

The neatly laid Flat lay

The neatly laid flat lay is one of my favourite flat lays to look at but my least favourite to photograph. They look so neat and so perfect and my particluar faves are the ones with loads of items. You need to spend some real time laying out the pieces of your flat lay and items need to be cohesive in terms of colour to really work. A flat surface is essential and when shooting make sure you get the camera directly above and flat. 

If I do shoot this kind of flat lay I like to play around with angles. Some instagrammers keep their neat flat lays perfectly straight and others shoot them on an angle which I just love. Look back at your photos to make sure your items are neatly lined up and make sure all gaps are similar with will give your neat flat lay the perfect look.

Instagrammers nailing the neatly laid flat lay

MAXFASHEDITOR | WALIDS

The simple minimal Flat lay

Sometimes the prettiest flat lays are the simplest ones. Not all flat lays need to be full of items so keep the number of items to a minimum and play around with negative space and shooting objects from further out or half off camera. I also love items shot in the corner of the frame. 

Other great minimal flat layers

PHOEBESOUP | THEMINIMALISTKIN

The hand in Flatlay

Flat lays don't always have to be just inanimate objects, you can add yourself into the shot and make a more interesting photo. To truly nail this like my friend Laura and feature both hands you'll need an overhead tripod to do it properly.

You can though feature a single hand for activities like holding a makeup brush or a mug of tea and use your other hand to get the photo. Utilize your flip screen on your camera or use your reverse screen on your iPhone and hold it up as high as you can. You can straighten etc in editing afterwards.

The Whole Outfit Flat lay

There is definitely an art form to fitting an entire outfit into a square but the trick is how you arrange the clothes and how high up you can get the camera.

For this kind of flat lay you can include jeans, tops, boots, coat, hat, handbag, basically the whole shebang. I find that shooting on the floor works best for these kind of shots so you can stand on a chair and get nice and high up and fit everything in. If you have floorboards, take note of the direction of the boards and try and get them perfectly straight on camera or purposefully angled.

Take note of arranging the clothes, decide how much of each item you want to show and if you want the outfit to be arranged as if you were wearing it or more like a folded flat lay. Get the camera up nice and high and as flat as possible and shoot lots of options. If you have a flip screen you can utilize it to get the picture straight and all the items in the frame.

I do love these kind of flat lays and there are some accounts really nailing showing a whole outfit in just one square.  

More whole outfit instagram inspo

THEPINKDIARY | OUTFITFLATLAY

So to finish here are my Top Tips for shooting flat lays.

• Move stuff around. Keep switching up the arrangement of your items and the angles of items to get lots of variations of the flat lay. The simplest of moves can really make a flat lay. For example I find shoes work better pointing in certain directions. 

2. Keep your camera or phone flat. Although you can change this in editing (post on that to come soon) its best to shoot with the camera as flat as possible. You can achieve this I find by holding the camera low and dead centre on the flat lay and lift it up as straight as you can till you have all the items in frame.

3. Take lots of photos then you have plenty options to choose from. I take maybe 10/15 photos per flat lay to get it right.

4.  To get even light I shoot mine near a window. To prevent shadows you can use a reflector one one side, I use a big white board which I hold on the side across from the window. This board bounces light down on to the flat lay. You could also use white paper too.

5.  For backgrounds try your bed, tables or floorboards. You can also use white boards or card for plain backgrounds as well as fabric or blankets and try adding coloured paper, magazines etc for interest. Read my Instagram props post for more ideas.

6. Blue tac is your friend. Use it to fix items in position and keep them where you want them and also to stop items rolling away.

7. Stick to a style. I love flat lays, they are one of my favourite types of photos but I stick to the more casual style on my instagram as that's my taste, also it keeps my feed all similar too. Don't mix too many styles of flat lays together if you want a cohesive Instagram feed or blog style.

Hope you loved my Flat Lay Photography Tips. I'd love to know if you love a good flat lay? Which type is your favourite?

Make sure you check out my other PHOTOGRAPHY  posts too.

Photos taken on the  Olympus Pen  with kit lens

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Love how straight forward you’ve made these! I love a good flat lay but sometimes struggle with designing it! Amazing tips babe

http://www.petiteelliee.com

Lived this! I’m not really a flat lay fan (being in interiors I tend to take whole scenes) but this wa super useful! Kate

Love your photography posts! I’m useless at flat lays but I’m definitely going to try and utilise these tips – the colourful flatlay looks awesome xx

These all look great! I like to play around with different flatlays, yet to try an outfit one. I see others do their styling effortlessly but I sometimes struggle. Good tips here though, thanks.

Some great tips here. Thanks for a great post Debbie. Laurie xx

I’ve had issues with flat lays, but I found using a medium size foam box works good too! If I can’t lay things down I can prop it up on the sides and it looks like it’s on the ground and it also helps with the light too! I have to keep my flash on because I have the worse lighting in my room and it reflects off of it so good! Confessions of a disabled blogger right here! Lol :)

Great tips really interesting post. http://www.katescloset.uk

This was so helpful. I love flatlays but always struggle to get it right. This will def give me the confidence to try again xx

A Beginners Guide To Flat-lay Photography

Remember that image with perfectly placed objects on a flat surface that made your eyes stuck while you were endlessly scrolling your social media feed? That style is called Flat-lay and is one of the most popular genres of photography thriving on social media.

Flat-lay is a type of still-life photography where the objects are placed on a flat surface and shot directly from above. Great for product and food photography. It might sound easy but is the trickiest form, as the objects are placed flat on a surface. Therefore, it becomes tough to create a character of your subjects.

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you kickstart your flat-lay journey.

Table of Contents

Styling is a three-step process where you think about your composition, gather the objects that you want to click and finally place them to create a visual story.

Step 1: Composing the ideal output in mind

The composition is an essential aspect of any photography style, and by this, I mean to arrange your objects to deliver the right kind of story. The exercise helps in understanding the material needed for your composition and the story that you want to build between them. Example, you want to show a morning scene where the bed is your surface and coffee mug, blanket, book, and a plant are your objects to convey your morning ritual to your audience.

Step 2: Gathering your material

Now that you’ve imagined the whole scene in your head start looking for your material. For beginners, look for the simplest things available at home like books, markers, plants, a cup of coffee or tea, newspaper. For background, you can use a wooden table, floor (wood or marble) or anything from your wardrobe like me. Prefer using a plain background so that the focus remains on the objects. I love making DIY backdrops using bedsheets, T-shirts and a bathrobe.

Step 3: Placing your objects

The final step is to place the objects. Understand the materials that you want as primary and keep the rest as secondary. While doing this, add some amount of negative space around each object, so that you don’t overwhelm the viewer.

Natural light works wonders for flat-lay photography. Therefore, try to shoot during the daytime and place your setup close to a door or a window. However, you can also use artificial light to click your flat-lays. All you need to do is place objects in such a manner that their shadows don’t fall on each other. Also, face the light source while clicking your photos to avoid any blockage of light.

Camera and angles

You can use your phone or camera to click your flat-lay shot. If you are using a phone, then turn on the grid to help line up your shot. Get higher from the surface and place your camera directly above the setup. Focus on the subject to get a sharper image and keep the rest of the props in the background.

Tip: Helping your audience relate to the composition is essential. Therefore, add a human touch by using your hands or legs or both to spice up your creation.

Post-processing

Perform some essential fixes, like editing the contrast, highlights, and shadows on your image to obtain the exact output. Crop the photo in a way that the subject remains in focus, and the rest stays partially within the frame, giving the audience some room for imagination.

So start gathering your materials and get ready to click that insta-worthy photo.

Comment below or shoot me a message, if you have any questions related to flat-lay photography and for more inspiration, check out my latest posts on Instagram . 🙂

Meenakshi is a designer by profession and traveller by heart. Photography is something that she cherishes and goes on a Click! Click! Click! spree wherever she goes.

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How to Style Flat Lays: 3 Composition Rules for More Dynamic Images

News & Updates

“How to Style Flat Lays” is our new blog series all about how to take better flat lay images. Today, I’m going to focus on the three main composition rules for more dynamic photos.

Last week I showed you how to make a styling board in under 10 minutes. The reason for that is that in order to take great flat lay photos, you need a simple and clear background that enhances the final images.

If you missed my tutorials on how to make your own styling boards, you can check them out below:

• How you can make a styling board in under 10 minutes
• 3 Easy ways to make your own styling boards

Now that we established the background, it’s time to break down the basics of composition for a successful flat lay image.

Why do you need to know how to style flat lays? I’m glad you asked! Better flat lays will give you a better chance to have your work picked for publication. Blogs and magazines love well done flat lay images!

Basic Rules of Composition:

1. the “s” curve.

The S curve is one of the easiest, yet more powerful rules of composition that you can use to achieve dynamic images that will captivate the eye.

It works particularly well with invitations and paper goods when you’re trying to achieve a more scattered look like you’ll see in the images below. By using the “S” shape when styling your paper goods, your image will feel more “organized” and pleasant to the eye, rather than messy and chaotic.

2. Diagonal Lines and Circles

Another composition rule I like to use is a diagonal line through the center of the frame with two circles, one on each side to help balance the overall image. The main pieces of paper in this flat lay create a diagonal line, while the two round ring dishes help balance the rest of the frame. If you don’t have round dishes in your styling kit, you could use blooms or flowers. Pro tip: you’ll want to use the bigger item on the bottom of the frame.

3. The Fibonacci Spiral

The Fibonacci Spiral is one of my favorite rules of composition because it takes the viewer’s eye on a journey throughout the frame. In the image below, I start at the brightest spot which is the main invitation piece, then my eye travels to the open envelope above. The two clay seals connect the main envelope with the envelope in the top right. Then, my eye travels down to the reception card, RSVP card, and it ends with the addressed envelope. The greenery helps connect the eye back to the main invite. The spiral allows us to travel from one element in the image to another, without making it feel chaotic. The Fibonacci Spiral is really helpful with busier images.

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Classic Black Full Size Flat Lay Makeup Bag

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WHY WE LOVE IT:

• Makeup bag & cosmetics mat in one 
• Fully expands to give you a better view of your products 
• No more rummaging! 
• Opens & closes in seconds!
• Perfect for travel or on-the-go lifestyle 
• Saves time everyday 

HOW TO USE:

• Open and lay me out flat 
• Fill with all your beauty must haves 
• Pull the drawstring to close me

THE NITTY GRITTY:

• 18cm across when closed, 52cm diameter when fully opened
• Inside zip pocket, plus 8  elastic brush holders
• 2 large exterior pockets fastened with velcro 

WASH & CARE: 

• Remove makeup stains with a little washing up liquid on a damp cloth
• Machine washable at 30 degrees on a gentle cycle, hang to dry. Frequent machine washing may cause the toggle and metal parts to tarnish
• Do not tumble dry
• Do not iron, do not bleach

Product Details

Wash + care.

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Time Saving

No more rummaging, jelly open flat box bag in lilac daisy, jelly box bag in pink glitter butterflies, jelly open flat box bag in green hibiscus.

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Great product

Bought for granddaughter who loves the draw string flat makeup bag.

Classic black full size flat lay makeup bags

Perfect size material and wipe clean.

Not yet received

Hello Thank you for your note - I am yet to receive the 2 make up bags, can you please let me know when they will arrive via post? Thank you Kind regards

She loves it!

Got this for my sister and she loves its design Hoping to get some more now for our cousins Xmas gift!

Flat lay make up bag

Great service, fast delivery, lovely bag -holds lots of makeup -keeps it all off my daughters bedroom floor!

So good I’ve bought 3!

I have found the flat lay make-up bag so good that I have bought them for my daughter and daughter-in-law as well!

Really simple to use, fast delivery and holds more and larger items than I thought it would

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