Not Your Average Studio Corporate Portrait Session

Why settle for a white background?

When it comes to corporate portraits, it's easy to fall into the same old routine – think plain white backdrop, stiff poses, and the ever-present, slightly forced "professional" smile. But what if you want something a little more, well, dramatic? Enter the smoke machine.

Yes, you read that right. Smoke machines aren’t just for haunted houses or ‘80s rock concerts anymore; they’re now the secret sauce in creative portrait photography.

Take this recent session, for example. The client came to us asking for something that stood out – a far cry from the usual "LinkedIn profile pic" you see a thousand times a day. No basic blue background or beige walls for her. She wanted mood. She wanted atmosphere. She wanted to look like a CEO... of a mysterious, high-end spy agency.

So, we started brainstorming and landed on the idea of using a smoke machine to create that cinematic vibe. What could be better for a "serious but approachable" look than billowing clouds of fog? Paired with some creative lighting, it gave the image an ethereal, almost film-noir feel. And let’s be honest, no one else in the boardroom will have anything like it.

Planning the shoot was a collaborative effort. It involved listening to the client’s vision and elevating it with a few creative twists. It’s all about finding that balance between professionalism and personality.

The end result? A striking, high-end portrait that still says "I mean business," but with an edge – and just the right amount of mystery. Sometimes, you just need a little fog to let your personality shine through.

  • Client: Paige B

  • Studio: Brick and Beam

  • Lighting: Elinchrom

Lotus Caravans Automotive Photography

Lotus Caravans is a distinguished Australian caravan manufacturer renowned for crafting exceptional caravans that have captured the hearts of many Australians. With a diverse range of caravans, Lotus Caravans has become a widely celebrated brand, known for creating vehicles that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. What sets Lotus Caravans apart is their ability to personalize caravans to meet the unique needs of their customers, ensuring that each caravan is tailored to perfection. As a result, Lotus Caravans has earned a well-deserved reputation for delivering quality and customized caravans that bring joy and comfort to countless individuals and families across Australia.

  • Design Agency: Penzo

  • Photographer: Ivan Lee

  • Videographer: J. Ho

  • Photographer’s Assistant: Kat Fogarty

  • Producer: Kelly Ho

  • Digital Retoucher: She Touch

Capturing the Essence of Kapsoura Candles: Behind the Scenes of Our Product Photo Shoot

Have you ever wondered what goes into those stunning photos of Kapsoura candles that you see here? It’s not just about the candles themselves, although they are undeniably gorgeous. It’s about capturing the essence of what makes Kapsoura candles special—the hand-crafted quality, the luxurious coconut soy wax blend, and the intoxicating scents of our premium fragrance oils.

Recently, we had a photo shoot to showcase their collection, and we thought it would be fun to take you behind the scenes.

Setting the Scene

The first step in our photography process is setting the scene. We choose our Port Melbourne studio to build a simple set that complements the vibe of Kapsoura candles—think cozy, elegant, and serene. Studio lighting was chosen for consistent lighting . It highlights the subtle textures and colors of our candles, making them look even more inviting.

Styling the Candles

Next, it’s all about styling. Each candle is carefully placed to showcase its best angle. We pay attention to details like the label, the surface the candle sits on, and any surrounding props. Fresh flowers, cozy throws, and rustic wooden tables often make an appearance, adding layers of warmth and sophistication to the shots. With everything in place, it’s time to start shooting. Our photographer uses a high-resolution Hasselblad X1D-50 digital medium format camera to capture every detail.

5 lights are used to create the subtle textured lighting you see in the images.

Editing with Care

Once the shoot is over, the magic continues in the editing room. We ensure that each image stays true to the natural beauty of our candles. Colors are enhanced just enough to bring out the richness of the wax and the vibrancy of the labels, without overdoing it.

And there you have it—a glimpse into how we bring Kapsoura candles to life through photography. Every image is crafted with the same love and care that goes into making our candles, ensuring that what you see is a true reflection of what you get.



  • Studio: Brick and Beam, Port Melbourne

  • Camera: Hasselblad X1D + HCD80mm

  • Lighting: Profoto D1’s & Godox AD200

Corporate Portrait Photography | Brave Legal Lawyers

Brave Legal is a Melbourne based boutique law firm specialising in personal injury. Ivan was commissioned for a project involving portrait photography in Melbourne, capturing a series of portraits featuring Principle Lawyer Bree Knoester, Associate Jyoti Haikerwal, Lawyer Anastasia Nagoryny, and Law Clerk Lucia Nguyen.

Images were taken one morning in their Melbourne CBD office with a mixture of natural day light and studio flash.

The Top 10 Tips for a Successful Outcome when Preparing for a Corporate Portrait Photoshoot

Preparing for a Portrait photoshoot involves a combination of planning, organization, and attention to detail. Here are the top 10 tips for a successful outcome:

  1. Define Your Purpose:

    • Clearly understand the purpose of the photoshoot. Whether it's for personal use, professional portfolios, events, or marketing materials, knowing the goal will guide the entire process.

  2. Communication is Key:

    • Communicate effectively with the photographer and any other team members involved. Discuss the concept, style, and any specific ideas or requirements you have. Clear communication ensures everyone is on the same page.

  3. Plan Your Wardrobe:

    • Choose clothing that complements the theme and setting of the shoot. Avoid busy patterns or logos that may distract from the main subject. Bring a few outfit options to give yourself flexibility.

  4. Location Scouting:

    • If possible, visit the location beforehand to familiarize yourself with the surroundings. Consider lighting conditions, potential backgrounds, and any logistical challenges. Being prepared will save time on the actual day.

  5. Grooming and Preparation:

    • Pay attention to personal grooming and hygiene. If applicable, schedule haircuts, manicures, or any other grooming needs well in advance. This will help you feel confident and polished during the shoot.

  6. Practice Posing:

    • Practice posing in front of a mirror or with a friend. This will help you discover your best angles and expressions, making the actual shoot more efficient. Be open to the photographer's guidance as well.

  7. Bring Necessary Props and Accessories:

    • If there are specific props or accessories you want to include in the photos, make sure to bring them. This could be anything from a hat or sunglasses to items that represent your personal style or interests.

  8. Consider Lighting Conditions:

    • Discuss with the photographer the planned lighting setup and how it will complement the desired mood. Whether shooting indoors or outdoors, understanding and planning for lighting conditions is crucial for achieving the desired results.

  9. Stay Hydrated and Energized:

    • Photoshoots can be physically demanding, so ensure you stay hydrated and well-nourished. Bring snacks and water to keep your energy levels up throughout the session.

  10. Relax and Enjoy the Process:

    • Nervousness can show in photographs, so try to relax and enjoy the experience. Trust the photographer's expertise, be open to trying new things, and remember that a positive and confident attitude contributes to great photos.

Remember that the key to a successful photoshoot is a combination of preparation, collaboration, and a positive mindset. By following these tips, you increase the likelihood of achieving the desired outcome.


Creative Studio Product Photography | Content Image Creation for E-Commerce

E-Commerce and Online Imagery that Stands Out from the Crowd

Content image creation for e-commerce photography plays a crucial role in attracting customers, enhancing product visibility, and driving sales. In today's digital age, where online shopping has become the norm, businesses must invest in creating high-quality, engaging visual content to stand out from the competition.

Compelling content images are essential for grabbing the attention of potential customers. When browsing through numerous products online, consumers tend to make quick judgments based on visuals. By creating visually appealing and professional product images, businesses can make a strong first impression, enticing customers to explore further.

Ecommerce Product photography in our Melbourne Studio by One of Melbourne's best advertising photographers Ivan Lee of IJ Production

To create effective content images, our studio employ various techniques. First, focus on lighting. Proper lighting is crucial for capturing the details and colors of the product accurately. Whether it's natural light or artificial lighting setups, we ensure that the lighting enhances the product's visual appeal without distorting its true appearance.

Composition is another vital aspect of content image creation. Carefully arranged, the product and its surrounding elements to create an aesthetically pleasing composition. Considerd factors such as product placement, background selection, and props, all aimed at creating a visually compelling image that aligns with the brand's aesthetic.

Additionally, post-processing plays a significant role in content image creation. While we try and get it right in camera with minimal retouching, adjusting colours and removing blemishes is required. However, it's crucial to strike a balance and avoid over-editing, as customers expect the product to look as close to reality as possible.

Another strategy for content image creation is incorporating lifestyle and context. While product-only images are essential, contextual images that showcase the product in use or in a relatable setting can greatly enhance its appeal. Lifestyle images help customers envision themselves using the product, leading to a higher likelihood of purchase.

Content image creation for e-commerce photography is a critical element in driving online sales. By investing in high-quality images that showcase products accurately and creatively, businesses can attract customers, increase their engagement, and ultimately boost conversions. Through techniques such as proper lighting, composition, post-processing, and storytelling, e-commerce photographers can create compelling visuals that leave a lasting impact on customers, setting the brand apart in the competitive e-commerce landscape.

Contact us for your next project