Urbanbrand444: A Case Study in Industrial Product Photography
Creating product images that truly resonate with a brand’s identity is a skill that goes beyond simply taking a picture. For Urbanbrand444, a high-end furniture company specializing in pieces made from repurposed scaffolding materials, the goal was to capture the raw, urban spirit of their brand. The case study from Emma Milestone Photography details a collaboration that proves the power of using a unique location and carefully selected props to build a compelling visual narrative.
The Creative Challenge: Marrying Materials with Mood
Urbanbrand444’s furniture is crafted from repurposed scaffolding boards and poles, giving each piece a distinctive, industrial character. The challenge was to create a photographic backdrop that would not only showcase the furniture but also enhance its story. The solution was an inspired choice: a cavernous, unheated aircraft hangar at Penny Green Aerodrome.
This location was more than just a setting; it was a character in itself. The cold, vast space with its raw, utilitarian feel perfectly complemented the furniture’s rugged aesthetic. The natural light filtering through the hangar doors provided a cinematic quality, adding drama and depth to the scenes. By embracing this unconventional environment, the photographer was able to produce images that were both striking and authentic. This approach aligns with the principles of Brand Storytelling: What It Is, Strategies, and Best Examples, which emphasizes that a brand’s visual identity should be authentic and create an emotional connection with the audience.
The Art of Curating the Scene: Props and Lighting
A key element of this successful shoot was the use of props that were as charismatic as the furniture itself. The inclusion of classic Aston Martins, rugged Harley Davidsons, and various aviation gear elevated the product photography to a form of brand storytelling. These items served as visual cues, helping customers imagine the furniture in a cool, high-end, and unconventional setting. The thoughtful placement of these props transformed static product shots into dynamic lifestyle scenes. This is a powerful technique, as highlighted in the article on How to Use Images to Create a Brand Story That Sticks, which suggests that using story-driven imagery can powerfully reflect a brand’s core values.
Beyond the props, the photographer used a two-light setup to sculpt the light, adding a moody, evocative feel while meticulously capturing the fine details of the materials. This combination of creative control and technical precision ensured that the final images were not only visually stunning but also faithful to the quality of the product. The result was a collection of photos that Urbanbrand444 could use across all their marketing channels to reinforce their brand identity.
The Outcome: Building Trust and Generating Results
The project was a resounding success, earning high praise from Urbanbrand444’s Managing Director, Tony Sheridan, who commended the photographer for her professional and proactive approach. This case study demonstrates how a collaborative and creatively-driven photography project can result in marketing assets that go far beyond a simple product showcase.
To see more examples of successful projects and client work, you can explore other Case Studies on the website. For more insights and tips on visual marketing and photography, be sure to check out the Emma Milestone Photography Blog.