Is your merchandise looking fabulous in your studio, but you want to boost sales online and through social media? In this blog, I’ll be discussing the importance of location when it comes to photographing your merchandise. We all know lighting is key, props help tell a story, and crisp images are essential—but here’s one element that often gets overlooked: Location!
The Importance of Location
The importance of location was one of the first things I learned while studying Photography at university in Manchester. I remember being told in one of my very first lectures to take my camera and simply walk around the city. “Take great pictures,” my lecturer said. With only the location and minimal instruction to guide me, I had to rely on my surroundings to impress.
When it comes to photographing your merchandise, the background is just as important as the item itself. But why, you might ask? If a picture says a thousand words, the location says 900 of them. The setting of a shoot frames the whole story—it’s what turns a product into a lifestyle.
Think of it like a recipe book. Of course, the ingredients matter, but we’re all drawn to the ones with beautiful food photography. That’s because we’re not just buying a meal—we’re buying the feeling of a perfectly styled table, soft lighting, and that “I want to be there” moment. It's the same with your merch. Great styling and a thoughtful location help your product tell a story that your customers want to be part of.
Use Your Space Wisely
Let’s imagine you own a gorgeous Pilates studio and are looking to sell your fitness merchandise. You aren’t just selling the products—you’re selling your brand as a whole. I’d recommend using your studio to your advantage. It already reflects your brand, so any photos of your products automatically feel authentic. If your studio has a set colour palette, stick to it to maintain a consistent visual theme.
It’s a win-win: your product images promote your Pilates studio, and shooting there is cost-effective.
However, keep in mind that studios aren’t always purpose-built for product photography. Poor lighting, busy walls, or awkward layouts can work against your shoot. So always assess the space before you start snapping away.
Choosing a Location
You can always book a professional photography studio. While it can be time-consuming and expensive, these studios usually come fully equipped with everything you need to perfect your merch shots—top-tier lighting, backdrops, and props. Personally, I think using a studio can limit how creative you get, but it’s a great option when you want a clean, professional result.
Other fantastic location ideas include:
- A nearby club or quirky venue
If you can find a space that fits the lifestyle and aesthetic you’re selling, it’s worth the effort. Selling tennis gear? Shoot on a tennis court. Launching a hiking brand? Head up a mountain. You get the gist!
Get Outdoors
Don’t underestimate the power of outdoor shoots. Natural beauty like flower beds, quirky trees, or even a simple park can make your products shine. Outdoor shoots are fresh, dynamic, and cost nothing—except maybe the unpredictability of weather. Rain can ruin your plans… or add drama to your shots if you plan ahead. Always have a Plan B and think about how elements like wind or wet conditions could either help or hinder your shoot.
Tight on Time or Space? Try Flat Lays, If space is limited, you can still create striking content. Flat lays can be done almost anywhere. Grab a plain board from Hobbycraft, throw in some props (like clothes or accessories to style the item), and focus on good lighting. It’s simple but effective.
Tips for Getting Started
If I were setting up a merch shoot today, I’d start by creating a Pinterest board. It helps inspire ideas and shapes your aesthetic direction. I’d create three boards:
Display Ideas – How to fold, hang, or showcase a piece of clothing.
Location Inspiration – From minimalist cafes to forest trails or retro storefronts.
Photography Styles – Think slanted close-ups, fish-eye lens shots, or specific editing styles.
Choosing the right location really depends on your merchandise and brand concept. It can be tough narrowing it down, but take your time and let your creative vision guide you.
I’m based in the Midlands, so I’ve linked a few local studios, quirky venues, and stylish Airbnb’s below. Feel free to check them out—if they catch your eye, great! If not, I still wish you the best of luck with your shoot. I hope this post helped, even just a little.
The Playground & The Hideout – XYZ Studios (Leicester)
Spacious studio with a 7 m infinity cove, styled zones, and natural-light.
https://www.xyzstudios.co.uk/
Lite Studio (Weedon Bec, near Leicester)
Natural light studio with industrial windows, styled corners, and flexible rental.
https://litestudio.uk/photography-studio-hire-in-leicester/
Moorland Studios (Worcestershire)
Studio with pre-built sets, industrial textures, props, and lighting gear.
https://www.moorlandstudios.co.uk/
SS Creative Photography Ltd (Birmingham)
Urban creative studio in a vintage building with multiple sets and editorial vibes.
https://sscreativephotography.com/
Chestnut Eco Lodge (Northamptonshire)
Cabin with woodland surroundings, ideal for nature/editorial shoots.
https://www.bridgesandballoons.com/best-unique-airbnbs-in-the-uk/
The Water Tower (Warwickshire)
Converted tower with rustic charm, and scenic views.
https://www.coolstays.com/property/the-water-tower/23721
Victorian Artist Loft (Nottingham)
Open-plan, creative loft with high ceilings, skylights, and boho textures.
https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/19424445
