Image source: https://www.julia-romano.com/
This guide will emphasize the importance of natural lighting, a thoughtful arrangement of props, careful camera settings, and post-production editing to create compelling flat lay images.
Knolling is a method of photography where items are arranged at 90-degree angles from each other and shot from above, creating a visually pleasing geometric pattern.
Self-Portrait: This concept involves arranging objects that represent you or your interests in a knolling style, potentially as an expressive profile picture for social media. The items should speak to your regular use, define your external style, and give insight into your personality and preferences.
Literary Knolling: This involves laying out objects that relate to a book's narrative, almost like a visual synopsis, alongside the book itself.
How to Knoll: Here are the summarized steps and tips for knolling:
Conceptualize: Start with a clear idea for your knolling project.
Use Available Items: Begin with what you have at home and improve over time.
Start Simple: Begin with fewer items on smaller surfaces.
Condition of Items: Choose items that are in good condition.
Surface: Find a flat, spacious surface for your composition.
Background: Select a suitable background that complements or contrasts with the items.
Colors and Geometry: Pay attention to the color and arrangement of items.
Alignment Tools: Use a ruler to align items properly.
Balance: Ensure balance within the composition.
Lighting: Illuminate evenly with diffuse, uniform light.
Ideas for Knolling: You can create knolling photographs of various themes like photographic equipment, Lego, toys, stationery, natural elements, kitchenware, sports gear, prepared foods, or any collection of objects that represent a concept, color, or era.
Authors: Many artists like Todd McLellan, Pati Gagarin, Austin Radcliffe, Emily Blincoe, Tom Sachs, Barry Rosenthal, Jim Golden, and Martin Kozak are known for their work in knolling, providing inspiration to those interested in the technique.