Learning About Photography Turntables & Electric Turntables

Product turntables are flat, 360-degree platforms that photographers use to take photos of various retail items and other subjects. Using photography turntables that support the use of adapter plates and extension tubes is useful for getting shots from beneath products.

What's a Motorized Turntable?

There are two main types of turntables: manual and motorized. Motorized turntables have flat platforms that spin using electrical mechanisms. Unlike manual turntables, motorized versions can have adjustable rotation speeds and push-button or remote control options. In combination with shooting tents and table light kits, motorized turntables let you get the best lighting and angle on products without constantly rearranging products or lights. Since the product rotates in one spot, once your lighting is correct, you shouldn't need to make any changes to it during the entire shoot.

Uses for Photography Turntables

Photography turntables are useful tools for food, clothing, and jewelry shoots. Use product turntables with accessories like lighting kits, interchangeable backgrounds, and portable tripods to showcase products professionally. You can also use photo turntables with copy stands and lights to photograph touch-sensitive or delicate products like artifacts or old books.

When to Use Manual Turntables

Manual turntables work well in instances where you need to leave products in a particular position for a longer length of time. For example, 3D product scanning or photography requires you to make many small adjustments and take several photos from one position to make the 3D image. With the right turntable and photo compression software, it's possible to take photos of every angle without taking up large amounts of storage on your device.

B&H Photo and Video offers motorized and manual product turntables to help you get the best shots possible. Browse turntable accessories like table tents, lighting kits, and more to complete your product shooting kit.