How controlled lighting, multiple captures, and careful compositing create a clean, modern still life

For this still life session on January 2nd, 2015, the goal was to create a minimalistic red wine splash photograph — clean, graphic, and perfectly lit. Instead of relying on a single lucky frame, the image was carefully planned and built step-by-step in the studio using controlled lighting, individual captures, and later merging the best elements into one final composition.

The Concept

The idea was simple: a wine glass, a bright white background, and a dynamic red wine splash frozen in time. But achieving a clean and elegant result requires precision — both in lighting and in timing.

To get the ideal splash shape, we photographed multiple takes: small movements, different swirl intensities, and slight variations in timing. Each frame recorded a unique motion of the wine, allowing us to choose the most interesting shape and merge that with the cleanest version of the glass and background.

Studio Setup

The setup was built around consistency and control:

• A white backdrop lit to pure white
• Two side lights to illuminate the glass evenly
• A soft overhead fill to define the glass edges
• A stable platform for the wine glass to avoid reflections and unwanted shadows
• A fixed camera position to ensure perfect alignment between frames

This controlled environment allowed each shot — empty glass, filled glass, splash movement, and hand interaction — to be layered precisely during post-processing.

The Shooting Process

To capture the perfect splash:

1. We positioned the hand at the base of the glass for a natural swirl motion.
2. Using a fast shutter speed and studio strobes, we froze the movement in crisp detail.
3. We repeated the swirl many times, creating a whole sequence of splash variations.
4. In post-production, the best splash was combined with the cleanest glass and background.

The final image looks effortless, but it’s actually a combination of technique, patience, and craftsmanship.

Why Composite Still Life Works

This method ensures:

• Perfect highlights and reflections on the glass
• A clean, dust-free background
• The freedom to choose the most elegant splash shape
• Consistency that’s nearly impossible in a single shot

Still life photography thrives on precision — and compositing gives full creative control.

📸 Photo Gallery – Studio & Work Process

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

•