Capturing the Eloise Full-Size Pram: A Journey into Prototype Photography

As a commercial photographer, each project brings new challenges and opportunities to refine my craft. Last year, I had the privilege of photographing the Eloise Full-Size Pram, a beautifully designed prototype by François Hurtaud, a talented French designer. This project was particularly interesting, not just because of its aesthetic appeal but also because it was my first time shooting a prototype product.

The Unique Challenges of Prototype Photography

Unlike fully functional products, prototypes often have unfinished or non-working components that need careful planning both during the shoot and in post-production. This required a different approach compared to my usual commercial shoots. François, having worked in Hong Kong for the past decade, had a specific style in mind based on his previous collaborations. Our shooting styles had subtle differences, so we scheduled a pre-shoot meeting to align expectations and discuss technical aspects.

Pre-Shoot Planning: The Key to Success

During our discussion, we focused on key aspects such as:

  • Identifying which parts of the pram were non-functional or incomplete.
  • Determining what needed enhancement or compositing in post-production.
  • Establishing the lighting and composition to best highlight the craftsmanship and materials.

This step was crucial because if we didn’t fully understand the designer’s intent, certain aspects might not align correctly in post-production. Prototype photography demands both technical precision and creative problem-solving, as it’s not just about capturing the product but also envisioning the final result before the editing process even begins.

Execution: Balancing Realism and Post-Production

On the day of the shoot, we focused on achieving a clean, high-end look that emphasized the pram’s form and materials. Since some parts of the prototype were not fully functional, I had to ensure that the captured images provided enough flexibility for seamless post-production work.

For instance, certain elements needed digital enhancements to appear as though they were fully operational. This required strategic lighting, specific angles, and capturing multiple exposures to ensure that everything could be seamlessly blended during editing.

Key Takeaways from the Experience

  1. Communication is Everything – Understanding the designer’s vision before the shoot helps avoid issues later in post-production.
  2. Attention to Detail is Critical – Small misalignments in the shoot can create big challenges in editing, so planning is essential.
  3. Flexibility is a Must – Shooting a prototype means being prepared to adjust and problem-solve on the spot.

Conclusion

Working with François Hurtaud on the Eloise Full-Size Pram was a fantastic experience that expanded my perspective on product photography. It reinforced the importance of collaboration between photographers and designers to bring a creative vision to life.

If you’re a designer or brand looking to capture your product—whether a prototype or a final version—having a strong photography strategy in place is essential to presenting your work at its best. Feel free to reach out if you’re looking for high-end product photography that goes beyond the ordinary!