I want to begin this post with a shout-out to my old pal Murphy. Have you met him? A long time ago, Murphy made a law stating anything that can go wrong will go wrong, and we’ve been best friends ever since.

But, seriously. I speak for all photographers out there when I say that you can never, and I repeat “Never”, be over-prepared for a shoot. You should have backups for your backups and even backups for those too.

So, to save you from Murphy and a whole load of last-minute stress, I’ve compiled a list of product photography equipment you should always have on going into a shoot. Some items are specific for a certain type of shoot, and others are important for any endeavor you take on.

1. Tape

Tape is arguably the most important item you can have with you on a shoot. Keep as many different kinds of tape as you can. The very least you should have is strong tape, clear tape, and double-sided tape.

Look above for a behind-the-scenes look at our latest product shoot for just one of many ways tape can, and will, come in handy.

2. Pencil and paper

Sure, it may seem a little old-school, but what if you need to draw a diagram or remember your setup for your next shoot? 

OK fair. Maybe your iPad and Apple pen will do just fine. After all, it’s 2023, and you’ll likely have your phone or tablet on hand anyway. 

But if you’re like me — a pencil and paper are a must.

3. Clamps

Clamps are another item that just can’t be forgotten. Mostly, you’ll use your clamps to hold up your background — and man, will they hold up that background. 

But clamps can also be used in other situations, like holding a reflector or even doing the job of a clothespin. Clamps will save the day when tape can’t quite do the job.

4. Fishing line

Having a fishing line in your toolbox is especially important when photographing small jewelry items or other products that can’t stand up on their own.

Attach the fishing line to your product, get it in the right position and remove it in post-production through editing. 

Thin white string, or thread, can be substituted for fishing line if you’re photographing on white. It’s always better to stick to clear when you can to make the post-production and photo editing process smoother.

5. Pocket scissors

There’s nothing more frustrating than having the right materials and not being able to use them. You’ll need something sharp to cut your line, so keep a small pair of scissors or something with even more utility, like a pocket knife, in your toolbox at all times.

6. Glue dots

Glue dots are a great addition to the tape, specifically when working with small products. They also work great when working with multiple products and want to ensure you’re keeping everything in position. They hold pretty well and remove very easily without damaging your background.

The next five items are more specific to shooting clothing, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to have them on you.

7. Clothespins/pegs

Clothespins are especially important for shooting on a model or a mannequin because you want to show your customers how the garment can be the best fit. 

The better the clothes fit, the more likely they will buy them because not all bodies or mannequins are identical. You may need to make minor adjustments here and there.

8. Safety pins

Safety pins are for the smaller adjustments that clothespins are too bulky for. They’re easily hidden and can hold creases or folds in place while you shoot. In the same way pins are a clothing designer’s best friend, so are they a clothing photographer’s best friend.

9. Iron

Make sure your clothes are properly ironed before you start your shoot, and keep an iron close by for any mistakes. Photoshoots tend to be fast-paced, and not everyone always pays attention to everything. You may think you’re done, throw your clothes off to the side, and realize you have to shoot again — and you’ll be thankful for the iron when you do.

10. Wooden hangers

Having spare hangers will make accidents like the above scenario less likely to happen. 

You may also need them for shooting if you take on-hanger shots like the ones pictured.

11. Non-damaging hooks

You’ll need hooks to hang your items if you decide to do on-hanger shots. Decorative hooks are nice, but having some non-damaging hooks allows you to shoot anywhere without worry. They can also make your shoot more organized and will work great if you have a small number of items and no clothes rack.

12. Batteries and chargers

Lastly, ensure you have spare batteries and chargers for any and all electronic components you may be using. Remember Murphy’s Law — everything will die on you just when you thought you had everything charged. Be prepared, and you’ll save yourself a lot of trouble.

Once you’ve got a box of all this stuff, Murphy can’t get you. It’s a small expense to put it all together, but I guarantee it’ll come in handy. We love hearing from you, so let us know what you have in your photographer’s toolbox in the comments!

When you’re done shooting your product photos, let Pixc save you time by removing your backgrounds! See what we can do with a free photo edit today.