Lifestyle photography vs. product photography for catalogs: When to use each one
- maria65405
- 4d
- 4 min read
In digital marketing and brand communication, imagery is key. A good photo doesn’t just show what you’re selling — it also conveys how you want your brand to be perceived. This is where two commonly used styles come into play: product photography for catalogs and lifestyle photography.
Product photography – ZARA
Both serve different purposes, but they complement each other strategically. Choosing the right one depends on the message you want to convey and where your customer is in the buying journey.
INDEX:
What is product photography for catalogs?
Product photography for catalogs is the most “objective” type. It aims to highlight the product’s features clearly, without distractions or unnecessary embellishments.
Purpose: To present the product exactly as it is, building trust with the buyer.
Where it's used: Mainly in e-commerce, marketplaces like Amazon or Mercado Libre, digital or printed catalogs, product spec sheets, and online stores.
Practical example: A perfume bottle on a white background, photographed from different angles to show its packaging and finish.
This type of photography addresses the customer’s most basic need: to see exactly what they’re buying. That’s why lighting, a neutral background, and sharpness are essential.
What is lifestyle photography?
Lifestyle photography focuses on emotion. It shows the product in a real-life context — in someone’s hands or within a scene that invites the viewer to imagine its use.
Purpose: To connect with the consumer by showing how the product fits into their everyday life.
Where it's used: In advertising campaigns, social media, blogs, banners, newsletters, and any space where you want to convey brand values.
Practical example: The same perfume bottle, but this time placed on a nightstand next to a book and a lit candle, evoking an intimate and aspirational moment.
Fashion lifestyle photography – ZARA
This type of photography doesn’t just show the product—it sells a lifestyle. That’s why it works so well on Instagram, digital ads, and emotional campaigns.
If you’re interested in seeing how major brands have used different photographic styles to tell stories and connect with their audience, don’t miss Campaigns that changed fashion.
Key differences between product photography for catalogs and lifestyle photography
When to use product photography for catalogs?
When you need to show the product in detail.
For product sheets in your online store, where customers compare options before deciding.
On marketplaces that require photos with a white or standardized background.
In digital or printed catalogs, where uniformity is important.
When the goal is to reduce doubts and build trust before purchase.
Tip: Offer multiple shots of the product (front, side, texture details) to give the customer a complete view.
Product photography (Invisible Mannequin) – ZARA
When to use lifestyle photography?
When you want to create desire or an emotional connection with your brand.
To showcase the lifestyle your product represents.
In inspirational campaigns where the experience you convey is what matters most.
On social media, where aspirational and visual content grabs attention faster.
When your strategy aims to humanize your brand and bring it closer to your target audience.
Tip: Use people in your lifestyle photos. Seeing someone using a product helps the customer imagine themselves in that situation.
Fashion lifestyle photography – ZARA
What if you combine both?
The reality is that the best strategy isn’t to choose, but to take advantage of the best of both worlds:
Product photography for catalogs: informs and answers the question, “What am I buying?”
Lifestyle photography: inspires and answers the question, “How will I feel using it?”
By combining them, you make sure your customer first understands the product and then desires it. This mix is ideal for reinforcing trust while simultaneously driving the emotions that lead to purchase.
Lifestyle and product photography for catalogs – ZARA
In e-commerce photography, the choice of visual style also directly influences sales. Two widely used approaches are flat lay and on-model, each with distinct advantages. In this article Flat Lay vs. On-Model: How to Boost Your E-commerce with Professional Photography and Retouching, we show you when it’s best to use each to highlight your products online.
Ultimately, product photography and lifestyle photography are complementary tools within any visual communication strategy. The former helps you transparently showcase what you offer, while the latter allows you to emotionally connect with your audience.
The secret isn’t choosing one over the other but knowing when and on which channel to use them. This way, you can build a strong, clear, and attractive visual identity that enhances both trust and purchase desire.
If you want to take the next step and create product or lifestyle photos, contact us. We’ll help you create images that not only showcase your brand but make it unforgettable.
What is the main difference between product photography for catalogs and lifestyle photography?
Product photography for catalogs shows the item clearly, neutrally, and without distractions, while lifestyle photography presents it in a real-life context, creating an emotional connection with the consumer.
Do I need to choose only one type of photography?
No. The best approach is to combine both: product photos for catalogs inform and build trust, while lifestyle photos inspire and spark the desire to buy.
What happens if I only use lifestyle photos in my online store?
You can attract customers with appealing images, but there’s a risk they won’t fully understand what they’re buying. That’s why it’s always important to also include clear and detailed product photos for catalogs.
How many photos do I need for one product?
Ideally, have at least 3 to 5 product photos for catalogs (showing different angles and details) and complement them with 1 or 2 lifestyle photos that show the product in use.
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