Still life refers to a style or method of photography in which inanimate objects are carefully arranged and composed for the purpose of being photographed. This can be done in a controlled studio environment or outdoors, with the photographer selecting objects, backgrounds, lighting, and props to create a specific aesthetic or convey a particular mood.
Still life photography allows for complete creative control over composition, light, and detail, making it ideal for product photography, fine art, and illustrative purposes. It emphasizes texture, shape, colour, and contrast, and often explores visual storytelling through objects alone. By thoughtfully arranging elements, photographers can highlight beauty, evoke emotion, or communicate a narrative without the need for living subjects, making still life a foundational practice for mastering photographic technique.