How To: Flat Lay Like a Pro

Flatlay_What Would V Wear

“Flat lays are your new it pictures on Instagram.”

Over the last few months I’ve gotten quite a few emails from you regarding my flat lays. I consider them my ‘personal art photographs’ because each flat lay is carefully constructed and pieced together.

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JACHS_What Would V Wear_Collaboration

DENIM TOP: Jachs New York c/o | DENIM: YMI Denim c/o | SHOES: Feiyue c/o | SUNGLASSES: Ray Ban

They often tell you a story, too. But let’s get back to the emails I’ve received. Many of you asked me about my flat lay secrets, and I’m very excited to spill the beans with you all today!  So, keep on reading, and you’ll become a pro in no time!

First of, a white background is a must. I always use a white surface, such a white tabletop, or a white blanket to place my items and/or clothes on it. Now I don’t just place my items randomly on my surface, in fact, everything is well thought and laid out. It’s all about composition and white space. You don’t want your flat lay to be too hectic or cluttered so, make sure you’ll always have enough space between each item.

NY Company Flat Lay What Would V Wear-2

BLOUSE: New York & Company c/o | SKIRT: New York & Company c/o | SANDALS: New York & Company c/o | CLUTCH: New York & Company c/o

Shoot with natural light. This is a big one, believe me. Your images turn out 10 times better when you shoot with natural light. What you don’t want are shadows in your flat lays.

Next up, pick a theme. For instance, the image above was inspired by Spring. I added tulips, colorful clothes and shoes. I wanted this to be a “happy” picture that instantly brightens your mood.

Also, if you ever feel un-inspired I recommend Pinterest, or simply hashtag #flatlays on Instagram and you’ll find tons of great ideas!

As always, thanks much for reading & don’t forget to stop back tomorrow for a new style post!

PS: My Giveaway with CLUSE ends this Friday! If you haven’t entered yet make sure you do so for a chance to win a CLUSE watch of your own!

Much love.

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39 Comments

  1. Michelle Joseph
    March 29, 2016 / 2:54 AM

    Thanks for the tip Vanessa. X

    Mich xx

  2. March 29, 2016 / 5:28 AM

    Great pictures! Have a great day.

  3. Andrea @ Living On Cloud Nine
    March 29, 2016 / 5:44 AM

    I’ve always wondered the best way to lay out…these look great!! Hope your Tuesday is Terrific beautiful!!

  4. March 29, 2016 / 6:14 AM

    Vanessa, you do flat lay like no body’s business. They are so good! Thank you for sharing your tips! Hope you had a wonderful Easter!

    http://www.rdsobsessions.com

  5. March 29, 2016 / 7:28 AM

    These are such great tips, Vanessa! Your flat lays are always on-point! Totally agree on the natural light…it’s essential for the best pictures! Have a wonderful Tuesday!

    xo, Rachel
    A Blonde’s Moment

  6. March 29, 2016 / 8:54 AM

    Such a great post!! It can be so hard to get the hang of it, but these are all so true. Love your layouts and tips.

    xo,
    Sara Kate Styling

  7. March 29, 2016 / 9:46 AM

    Soooo Gorgeous:) Love the Photos and This Post:)
    Thanks Darling
    Love You Open Kloset
    I Have a New Post i hope you like:)www.openklosetfashion.blogspot.pt
    Instagram:@openklosetfashion

  8. March 29, 2016 / 10:52 AM

    i did not know how to create a flat lay but thanks to you I now do. I always wondered how you achieved the white background and I had all sorts of answers in my head and non of them was correct. Everyday is a learning day for sure.
    http://www.fashionstylemogul.com

  9. Jeanelly
    March 29, 2016 / 11:43 AM

    Natural light is definitely key. I like the theme idea. Thank you for sharing your tips!

    Hugs!
    Jeanie
    http://www.thefashionlotus.com

  10. Alma Moda Aldia
    March 29, 2016 / 12:09 PM

    Hola guapa, me ha encantado el post de hoy. Un abrazo y feliz tarde.

  11. March 29, 2016 / 1:07 PM

    Awesome tips Vanessa! Your flat lays always look so amazing. Thanks for sharing your tips with us 🙂

    xo, jackie
    stylemydreams.com

  12. March 29, 2016 / 2:13 PM

    I love flat lays, and I agree natural light really helps and makes a big difference. xx/Madison
    FASHION TALES

  13. March 29, 2016 / 2:33 PM

    I love flat lays, though I’m still experimenting and finding my style with them! Amazing tips, thanks for sharing them!

    xo
    http://www.carinavardie.com

  14. March 29, 2016 / 2:51 PM

    These are great tips! I agree that being a theme makes perfect sense I’ll have to try that out next time I attempt a flat lay. That one is really cheery!

    -M
    http://www.violetroots.com/blog

  15. March 29, 2016 / 3:15 PM

    Great tips! I will try this next time! Thanks for sharing!

  16. Nicki S.
    March 29, 2016 / 7:15 PM

    Such great tips, V! Your flat lays are always on point! Thanks so much for sharing your secrets with us! You rock, babe!!
    xoxo, Nicki

  17. March 29, 2016 / 7:18 PM

    These are such amazing tips! I bookmarked this entry, it’s so helpful! I can’t wait to make my first flatlay post <3

    http://www.SHVETA.com

  18. March 30, 2016 / 5:45 PM

    Loving the green shoes! x

    adelelydia.blogspot.com

  19. April 4, 2016 / 10:26 AM

    Vanessa, this was so super helpful as I am getting business cards done and wanted to do a flat lay pic to show them on my Fb page…I can tell a lot of thought does go into your flat lays, great use of colour, space, textures…but AAAH! I dont have a white surface or cloth in my flat hmmmmm, will do more research on this. Thanks for the inspiration!Xx

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