How to Flatlay

You're probably here because you wish to master the flatlay photo, or maybe because you saw my Instagram post. Disclaimer: I'm not saying my photos are the best, I'm just sharing what I know and what I've learnt over the years of flatlaying. As I grow, I feel like my style has definitely evolved and I hope you guys still like what you're seeing because even though interaction in terms of likes have significantly decreased (but I'm still always replying comments & questions that you guys left), I still enjoy what I'm doing and will probably go on until I hate taking photos.

#1 — Lighting

I've mentioned this many times in my previous tutorials here (3 tips for better photos), here (my favourite editing apps) and here (editing tips and tricks). Lighting is key. Shooting in front of a window gives me the best lighting I need (and it's free!) but since the light comes in only from one angle, I use a reflector to reflect light and making sure that my image is evenly lighted up. Yup, I'm very serious with my photos, like you can't tell. Lol, I kid! Also depending on the time of day, the intensity of daylight may vary. So if it gets too dark out, I'd rather not shoot. 

#2 — Background

Personally, I prefer my background plain and light as it allows other colours to stand out better.

#3 — Props

I hate to break it to you, but many flatlays you see on the internet (some of mine included e.g.: this) are carefully set up to look good. Trust me. While this and this are my current favourites, they were also carefully picked because they are of similar hues. Gather your favourite pieces and shoot away!

#4— Angle

As if you're not already overwhelmed by all the above-mentioned... But we must continue so you can get the best shot! Top down angles are the best when it comes to flatlay-ing, because it gives a birds eye view and every single detail can be captured. How cute are those socks anyway?!

If you're doing a flatlay like this, it can get a little painful when you have to make sure everything is aligned, but patience is a virtue! Turn on grid mode on your iPhone's native camera app and you will be able to capture a straighter shot.

okay this isn't a flatlay but you get my point

For food, the side angle is the best approach as it gives the image slightly more depth and... hopefully making the food a little more appetising? ;)

again not a flatlay but since we're on the topic of angles, why not?

+ filters I've been using now are S2 and HB1 in VSCOcam and I lower the intensity of each filter to a 3 or 4

++ editing apps used: VSCOcam, Snapseed and Photoshop Fix (all free for download on the AppStore)

+++ all images in this post were shot using an iPhone 5s/6s

40 days to being in America, I can hardly contain my excitement! Holla if you're in New York, Los Angeles & San Francisco!