Still Life Photography

Still life photography is a photographic art specialization which requires exceptional compositional skill. Lighting and effects can lead the viewer to look deeper or to look twice. Interesting composition will compel the viewer to look for longer. As such still life photography is a demanding art which requires specific, specialised, knowledge and expertise.

There is a saying in the industry that in still life photography, the artistmakes pictures rather than takes pictures. Take the Ultimate Garage image by James Moffat as an example of a picture created and designed to hold the viewer captivated. The image impeccably depicts miniature cars in a configuration that suggests futuristic workshop but more than that, this still life photography contains the little touches and effects which are intriguing and reminiscent of a carefree and youthful time. The viewer is transfixed by the detail.

In contrast another image, Chanel No.5 perfume, shows some detail in the items depicted but in this still life photography the artist clearly wants us to sense the overall glamour and up-market style of the image; it’s shiny and sharp and reflects (as in the glass) the best of everything. Still life photography is all about these intuitive stories relayed and captured in a flash of admiration and recollection.

James Moffat and JAM have been working in still life photography for 12+ years. They are the top still life photography company in Sydney and arguably, Australia and the world. This is reflected in the caliber of their clientele. JAM regulars for still life photography include:

- Belle Magazine products page styled with David Novak

- FHM Magazine

- Gourmet TravelerMagazine

- Gourmet Traveler Wine Magazine

- Qantas Magazine, high end products

- Myer Emporium Magazine

- House & Garden

- Real Living

- Harpers Bazaar

- Australian Dirt Bike Magazine

- Madison, Cosmopolitan

- Australian Geographic

- OK Magazine

- Zoo Magazine

- Top Gear Australia

- Westfield Magazine

James Moffatt prefers to use specific equipment for still life photography adding additional lighting and effects as required to complete a conceptual reality. His basic tools for still life photography include: Canon Eso 1ds Mk3, Canon 5d m2, Hasselblad H2, Hasselblad 503cm, Hasselblad 80mm fixed lens, Hasselblad 120marco lens, Hasselblad 50mm and a Canon 100mm macro fixed lens.