Gin Bottle Dark Studio Photography
This project is a deep dive into the specialized art of commercial bottle photography. As a direct result of a dedicated course on the subject, my objective was to apply advanced lighting and composition techniques to a single bottle of gin. The final images were crafted to be a dramatic hero shot, suitable for high-end marketing.
Low-Key Lighting & Texture
I chose to create a dramatic look for the bottle, revealing its details through light, volume, and texture. The lighting approach was planned to sculpt the bottle's form with low-key studio lighting, creating enveloping reflections that define its silhouette. 

Special attention was given to the finer details: a touch of light was used to give the wood cork a sense of drama, while the label was lit to highlight its embossed letters and the subtle sheen of its glossy text.

Through this detailed process, I show how a single product can be photographed to reveal its premium quality and craftsmanship. The project is a testament to the idea that a simple, focused shot can have a powerful impact when executed with technical precision.
The Workflow: From Capture to Final Composition
The project also provides a behind-the-scenes look at my studio workflow. I worked with real-time tethering to fine-tune the lighting with immediate feedback. The final image is a photo composition, where multiple shots were assembled in Photoshop. This process allows for complete control over the final outcome, enabling me to combine the best elements from each shot to create a flawless and dynamic result.
Project Highlights
Subject: Quinta dos Santos Handcrafted Gin
Purpose: Personal skill development in commercial bottle photography.
Location: Private photo studio
Technical Focus: Low-key lighting, sculpting with reflections, and highlighting texture (embossed details, glossy text).
Workflow: Real-time tethering, post-production photo composition in Photoshop.
Core Message: Demonstrating expertise in complex lighting and editing to elevate a product shot into a premium visual asset.

Credits
Brand: Quinta dos Santos - Website
Photographer: Joana Santos, Commercial Photographer - Website - Behance
Location: Private Photo Studio in Algarve, Portugal

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