360-degree product photography

360-degree product photography is a type of format that captures products from all angles. It is primarily used in e-commerce, on sales websites, and lately also on social media. Its aim is to provide even more information about the product and attract potential customers, thanks to this interactive visualization.

Its technique consists of taking a series of individual photographs from different angles distributed uniformly around the object (for example, every 10°) which, when finally combined into a single view, simulates the rotation of the object.

Types of 360-degree product photography

Non-interactive 360 animation

This is a gif where automated movements have been established for the object to show different views, and this format lacks sufficient quality.

Interactive 360-degree photography

It’s a collection of consecutive photos that form a 360 around the object, and you can also move it to view it as you prefer, on a horizontal plane.

Semi-spherical or spherical 360-degree photography

Although the operation is the same as the previous one, it can also move towards the top or bottom of the product if it’s spherical.

Virtual product tours

This type of 360-degree photography, in addition to being interactive, allows us to focus on specific details, materials, or functions of the product.

Product animations

With this format, using 360-degree photography, we can see movement in specific parts or accessories of the product.

When is it convenient to take 360-degree photographs?

Undoubtedly, for the newest and most technological products, it is highly recommended for visualizing shapes, providing the customer with a sense of confidence and informing about the characteristics of the product.

Advantages of 360-degree photography in a virtual store

360-degree product views can reduce the gap between physical and online shopping experiences. Among the advantages, we can highlight:

• Better-informed customers as it shows hidden features of the product and reflects in detail its shapes and the material it’s made of.
• More confidence in the purchase because customers can see the products in a way that’s closer to reality.
• Fewer questions by providing quality images in 360° because “a picture is worth a thousand words”.
• Maintaining competitiveness to stand out from the competition.

Types of 360-degree machines

Today we present our three machines so you can understand their characteristics and how to choose between them depending on the product and the desired result. With their own software, you can control the lighting, the rotation of the circular platform, camera settings, focus, and finally, editing and exporting.

• Alphashot 360, machine available in Barcelona: It’s ideal for small objects, such as necklaces, bags, glasses… It’s a machine with a 360-degree motorized rotating base, dimmed LED lighting on the front, top, back, and bottom. Additionally, the camera’s tilt angle is adjustable from completely frontal to completely overhead, to capture the product with the desired framing and angle.
• Alphastudio XXL, machine available in Barcelona: Designed for larger and bulkier objects, it’s possible to photograph from chairs, suitcases, and even people and mannequins to give volume to clothing, unlike the Alphatable 360. And in terms of features, it’s similar to its smaller sibling.
• Scan Cube 308, machine available in Madrid: To photograph small products and jewelry, our Scan Cube 308 is the ideal solution. This machine automates the processes of still photography, 360° animations, and videos. Additionally, from its integrated software, it’s possible to control the camera and all types of final configurations.
• Scan Cube 626, machine available in Madrid: For medium and large-sized objects from various sectors, it’s the ideal solution. It has similar features to the previously mentioned machines.

In conclusion, 360º product photography can be very beneficial, but it requires certain factors. However, it’s possible to design a cost-effective workflow for creating 360º content, either outsourced or in-house, depending on the production volume and available budget. At AVisual STUDIOS in Madrid and Barcelona, we offer both services: Orbitvu machine rental, so you can take the photos yourself, or the complete photography service, where we handle the entire process.