WHY NOT? BREAKING THE RULES: THE BEAUTY OF IMPERFECTION IN STILL LIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

 Why not?

When we think about still life photography, the instinct is often to keep everything sharp, clear, and perfect. Shoes should look flawless, flowers should look fresh, backgrounds should be neutral. But why not challenge those expectations?

In these images, the white pumps aren’t lit in the expected bright, commercial way. Instead, the light spills, creating shadows, flares, and reflections. The result is moody, atmospheric, almost painterly. Rather than showing the shoe in its most “accurate” form, the photograph emotes a feeling.

The flowers, also, go against the grain. Instead of fresh, pristine blooms, they’re wilted, fragile and decayed. Placing them next to the clean lines of the shoes creates a bit of confusion and tension: perfection vs. imperfection, luxury vs. decay.  I personally, celebrate imperfection in my work.

Personal Tips:

• Experiment with light — let it spill, flare, or soften instead of forcing even coverage.

• Use contrast in subject matter — pair polished objects with something rough or fading.

• Ask yourself, “Why not?” — if the usual rule says “make it clean,” try making it hazy. If the rule says “show it perfect,” try showing it imperfect.

All content © 2025 Leticia Valdez Fotografia

Photography grows when you allow yourself step outside of what’s expected. So the next time you’re setting up a still life or a fashion detail shot, ask yourself: Why not?

As always, best of luck!

Reach out! Drop a line and share what type of content you'd like to see on this blog.

All images distributed by Leticia Valdez Fotografia are professionally copyrighted works. These images cannot be used or altered for any purpose without permission. Copyright © 2025  Leticia Valdez Fotografia LLC.