Austin is a shining example of a vibrant and eclectic community, where holding on to a weirdo badge of honor is as important as slathering a breakfast taco with hot sauce. It is known for its live music scene, thriving tech industry and collective love for all things unconventional. This Texan gem is also home to a talented pool of product photographers who capture Austin’s entrepreneurial spirit in every frame. In a world where visuals can make or break a brand, Austin product photographers are the secret ingredient, blending the soul of the city with their artistic prowess to craft images that are as enticing as a plate of slow-smoked barbecue. Whether it’s a handcrafted piece of jewelry, a locally brewed craft beer, or a tech gadget that will revolutionize the world, these photographers have mastered the art of transforming the mundane into the extraordinary. They have honed their craft to tell captivating stories that resonate with consumers — from the vibrant food scene to immortalizing the innovative products that emerge from its startup culture. As this legendary city moves from a quiet center of alternative culture to a tech and food hub visited by many, an Austin product photographer has a perfect opportunity to mirror the city’s reputation for being dynamic and original.
At Wonderful Machine, still life/product photography refers to photos showing inanimate objects not covered in other specialties, such as automotive or liquids photography. We specifically define product photography as imagery showing an actual product that a client is promoting. Bringing a level of skill, innovation, and personality that could only match the Texas capital, here are the 7 best professionals in Austin product photography.
Phil Kline is a multi-talented photographer known for his expertise in several specialties, most notably conceptual, portraiture, and product photography. With a background in film and a passion for visual storytelling, Phil’s journey as a photographer began during his time studying film at Columbia College Chicago. It was there that he discovered the power of capturing moments and crafting narratives through the lens of a camera. After an eye-opening internship with renowned photographer Dennis Manarchy, Phil’s desire for more experience led him to New York City, where he pursued an MFA in Photography from the School of Visual Arts. During this time, he honed his skills in shooting food photography, gaining recognition for his work with the esteemed New York Times. Phil’s artistic journey ultimately brought him to Austin, where he had the opportunity to assist the renowned photographer Dan Winters. Phil’s photography is characterized by a lively and vibrant aesthetic, often utilizing bold colors and a playful spirit. He stands out as an Austin product photographer with images that are meticulously composed, showcasing the intricate details and shapes of his subjects. With work that is widely appreciated for its clarity, detail, and conceptual humor, Phil’s spirit and fun-loving demeanor make him a favorite to work with, for many. Whether behind the camera or on set, Phil’s passion and creativity are evident in every frame, resulting in captivating and engaging photographs.
Nick Barnes has made a name for himself in Austin product photography with his impeccable skills in capturing lifestyle, portraiture, and product images. From an early age, Nick’s interest in tracing and drawing set the stage for his journey into the world of visual storytelling. With a minimalist approach at his core, Nick often makes use of a white background. This gives his images a clean and sophisticated aesthetic that allows the products he shoots to take center stage. Through this technique, he effortlessly accentuates the vibrant colors and intricate designs of his subjects, captivating the viewer’s attention. Nick’s portfolio boasts an impressive roster of clients, including Austin Eastciders, Bath & Body Works, College Football Playoffs, Deloitte, Garrison Bros. Whiskey, and W Hotels. His proficiency in capturing the essence of each brand’s identity has made him a sought-after photographer in the industry. Whether it’s the warmth of a Summer Moon Coffee cup or the sleek elegance of League of Rebels accessories, Nick Barnes brings out the essence of each product, breathing life into every image he creates.
Jeff Wilson has made a name for himself in Austin product photography, but his journey started in the most unexpected of places. After years spent navigating the trenches of government employment, it was at the Texas House of Representatives where Jeff’s photography career truly began. Here, he embarked on an ongoing documentary project, capturing the essence of lawmakers during the legislative session. Later, Jeff found himself traveling for 6 years as a forensic photographer for the Texas Department of Public Safety. Despite the challenging subject matter, he amassed an impressive catalog of images that showcase his ability to capture even the most intricate details with precision. Building on his experiences, Jeff honed his skills further as an assistant to renowned photographer Dan Winters. This sequestered period in Driftwood, Texas not only fostered his photographic talent but also instilled in him a strong work ethic and a love for Red Wings. Jeff’s style is very outdoors-oriented, sometimes even edgy, often using natural or naturalistic lighting. He favors backgrounds that reflects this lifestyle, such as rocks, grass, wooden workshop walls, concrete floors, abandoned construction sites, and open fields. This gives his highly-detailed imagery a complementary relationship between the products he’s shooting and a side of the world that reflects the personalities of those who would be interested in them. Also worthy of note is one of Jeff’s past projects – a visually captivating photo essay for Texas Monthly Magazine, highlighting Texas high school football stadiums. The project garnered attention and earned him a National Magazine Award nomination.
Kimberly Davis is a renowned commercial and editorial photographer with a remarkable talent for capturing the essence and allure of products. Equally respected for her work in architecture, food, lifestyle, and portraiture, Kimberly has established herself as a master of bringing out the beauty in her subjects. She earned a BFA in Photography from the University of North Texas, and has been working for over a decade. As a passionate advocate for the creative community, Kimberly has served as President of the American Society of Media Photographers Austin/San Antonio. She has also contributed as a producer to the Texas Photo Roundup. Kimberly’s photography is clear and detailed, and exploring a variety of backgrounds to showcase products in front of. She’ll use the outdoors, a room with objects that complement the product’s image, or keep it simple by using tables made of wood, marble, or even plaster. A great example of dedication in Austin product photography, Kim clearly considers what will bring the most attractive qualities out of her subjects. One approach is to make the surroundings match the product, as well as the lifestyle accentuated by the product. Another is to shoot them in front of a sparser background to bring more of a focus to her subjects themselves. With an intuition that fits every image, Kim always gets it right.
When it comes to bringing a uniquely vibrant use of color to everything she shoots, photographer and art director Cydney Cosette Holm knows how to work her magic. Specializing in still life, fashion, and architecture, Cydney’s artistic vision is truly captivating. She has a keen eye for detail, honing in on the intricacies of her subjects with precision and finesse. What sets Cydney’s work apart is her brilliant exploration of colors, often neon, that envelop her compositions, giving them a dreamlike quality. In this ethereal realm, she masterfully isolates her products, allowing them to bask in the radiance of the colorful spectrum. This innovative technique not only highlights the shine, texture, and design of the products themselves, but also evokes a sense of luxury and opulence. In addition to her bold color palette, Cydney’s choice of surfaces further enhances the extravagant aesthetic she strives to achieve. Reflective and shiny, these backgrounds lend a captivating sheen to the products, elevating them to a new level of desirability. The expertly crafted composition and meticulous attention to detail in Cydney’s work make her a standout in the industry. With her unique artistic flair and uncompromising dedication to her craft, Cydney Cosette Holm sets the bar high in the world of Austin product photography.
Mark Bowers is a talented and versatile commercial photographer and video producer. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Mark’s deep-rooted values of integrity and hard work have shaped his approach to photography.
I approach every job as an opportunity to do what I love and at the same time, help someone else succeed doing whatever it is they’re passionate about. I never place my “wants” above a client’s needs. It’s about listening to your clients, meeting those objectives, and guaranteeing your work. I follow that mindset on every project, big or small, and the results are always favorable. I believe that “authentic” intentions resonate throughout my imagery and I strive to achieve this connection with everyone. My hope is that applying a genuine commitment to every project will create long-lasting relationships built on trust and confidence.
His meticulous attention to detail, acquired through his previous career as a CPA, has enabled him to master the art of product-oriented photography. From perfecting lighting techniques to utilizing specialized equipment, Mark’s dedication to accuracy is evident in every frame he captures. But Mark’s artistic vision extends beyond still images. In response to the ever-evolving digital landscape, he has expanded his repertoire to include video production. Through continued education and hands-on experience, Mark has seamlessly integrated cinematography into his skill set, further solidifying his position as a multi-talented creative professional. When it comes to Mark’s photography style, it is as dynamic as the city he now calls home. He deftly places his products in settings that bring out their unique personality and complements their inherent colors. By seamlessly blending specialties like liquid photography, Mark breathes life into his images, creating captivating visuals that demand attention.
Adam and Robin Voorhes are a dynamic duo of photographers that bring a blast of fun to everything they shoot. Their creative partnership began with a chance encounter and blossomed into a harmonious blending of talents. Adam’s mastery of lights and lenses harmonizes seamlessly with Robin’s passion for crafting and design. Together, they have transformed their 6,000 sq. ft church-turned-studio into a playground of creative exploration. With over 13 years of collaboration under their belts, The Voorhes have become experts at achieving awe-inspiring results through their inventive approach to photography. Their process is a testament to their unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and achieving the seemingly impossible. They bring to life concepts that leave onlookers wondering, “how the heck did they do that?” Nestled within their vibrant studio, The Voorhes bring their visions to life, armed with an impressive array of props and gadgets. Adam and Robin’s technical expertise is matched only by their boundless curiosity and playful spirit. With each project, they embark on a journey of creative inception, crafting mesmerizing stories illuminated by impeccable lighting, dynamic camera movements, and meticulously designed sets. Their innovative work has garnered accolades and recognition within the photography community, with features in renowned publications such as Communication Arts, American Photo, and Popular Photography. Their product photography is brought to life against bright backdrops, infusing each image with an infectious energy that captivates viewers. With their keen attention to detail and a touch of whimsy, The Voorhes produce images that are both razor-sharp and delightfully animated, creating a visual feast that leaves a lasting impression.
If “Keep Austin Weird” is the motto that the rest of America knows it by, the best thing a creative professional living in this amazing city can do is keep it interesting. Running with the creativity that put this cultural hub on the map, these Austin product photographers show how a versatile and unique approach can bring out the exciting nature of anything in front of their lenses.
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