From Hobbyist to Pro: Richie’s Product Photography Journey
After five years in photography and exploring various genres, Richie Squires found a passion for product photography through the challenges of lighting and composition. Since joining Photigy in 2024, he has taken the All Courses Bundle, received live feedback from Alex Koloskov, YouTube Live Q&A, and dramatically improved his skills. Now working part-time with clients and specializing in cosmetics and beverages, Richie is preparing to go full-time professional by the end of 2025.
How long have you been a photographer (hobbyist or professional)?
I have been a photographer for 5 years and worked part-time in product photography 2 years ago.
Is it your profession (part-time or full-time) or are you still learning?
If it is your profession: Tell us a little about your business. How long have you been a working photographer? What types of photography services do you offer? What helps set you apart from your competition?
I am part-time now and hoping to go full-time professional at the end of 2025.
If you are still learning: What are your goals (or plans) as a photographer? What would you like to do after reaching a level that would enable you to do commercial-quality work?
In the meantime, I’m still perfecting my skills. My immediate goal is to set up my photography studio and take on bigger clients.
What made you decide to pursue product photography?
I’ve tried with various genres of photography, from landscape to weddings. However, I found a bigger challenge in product photography because of the problem-solving and learning light that excited me more, and how a product can stand out.
How did you first learn about Photigy?
I first came across Alex on social media about a year ago. I was searching for product photography, and I watched a YouTube video, and I signed up for Photigy.
How many product photography courses or workshops have you taken through Photigy?
I signed up for the All Courses Bundle in 2024 and submitted my work on Alex Live Q&A for live reviews on his YouTube channel. Alex’s feedback has helped me get to where I am today with photography.
When you first got started, what did you find to be the most challenging aspect of photographing products?
The most challenging thing for me was trying to set up in a small area and trying to control the lighting. thankfully, by watching and learning through Photigy, I know how to control light even in a small space.
What is your favorite product image you created since taking courses/workshops through Photigy?
I would have to say I’ve 2 favorites, one is the Nike trainers and also the vodka drinks image.
What specialty in product photography interests you the most (beverage, food, jewelry, cosmetics, etc.)?
Cosmetics & Beverages would be my favourite. I love the gradient and tones you can achieve with both products, especially when the lighting is set up right..
How has your learning experience with Photigy affected your success as a photographer or pursuit of photography?
My experience with Photigy has helped me become more confident in my product photography, and within the last year, I’ve seen my work improve 100% from a year ago. I’m producing work for clients, and I’m ready for the next challenge that awaits me.
What advice do you have for people interested in pursuing product photography?
If you’re passionate enough about product photography and want a career, then be patient and study lighting and learn as much as you can. But most importantly, keep practicing; it wouldn’t happen overnight.
Check out more of his creative photos at his website:
www.richiepaulsquiresmyportfolio.com/
and follow him on social media:
Instagram : @richiesquiresphotographers