2026 Commercial Photography Shoot At An Auto Parts Store
August 7, 2026
In early 2026, I had my first commercial photography job of the year. I was hired to photograph the new NAPA Auto Parts store in Trotwood, Ohio. The person who hired me wanted photographs of the entire store except the outside. They wanted eye-level photos for the most part. I always try to provide extra photos in case they like a different angle or a different height. Sometimes what the client wants doesn’t make a good photo. I’ll shoot it anyway then give them what I consider a good shot. At that point, they can use whichever photo suits their needs.
I try to accept every commercial photography job. Every one is different, and I was learn things from each job. This job only took 90 minutes including the drive. I talked to the employees to let them know I’d be working around them. They were good to keep working. As I worked me way back and forth through the store, I found more and more aisle of car parts.
Since the auto parts store had’t opened to customers, everything was perfectly aligned. The shelves were full. The boxes all facing the right way. For a person who likes to be organized, I was right at home here.
Using A Wide Angle Lens At An Auto Parts Store
One thing I didn’t want to do was to use my ultra-wide angle lens without corrections. When using these lenses, there is a great deal of distortion in the images. Because I wanted these photos to be true-to-life, I made just that I enable post-production lens correction during editing. It removed outer parts of the photos, but at least everything is realistic. I made sure to shoot with a non-wide-angle lens in case the client preferred those. Without the client being on site, I can’t get direct feedback. I over deliver the number of images to make the client happy.
About NAPA Auto Parts
NAPA Auto Parts delivers exactly what I look for in a dependable automotive partner: consistency, accessibility, and a deep inventory that supports both professionals and everyday drivers. When I walk into a NAPA store, I know I’m stepping into a place built on decades of trust. That matters.
Their offerings go far beyond basic replacement parts. You’ll find everything from high-quality brake systems and filters to batteries, tools, and diagnostic equipment. Whether I’m maintaining my own vehicle or helping someone else stay on the road, I appreciate how NAPA focuses on reliability over shortcuts. Their NAPA-branded parts consistently meet a standard I can count on.
What really stands out is the balance between professional-grade inventory and approachable service. The staff understands the urgency behind most purchases—cars don’t wait, and neither should solutions. That efficiency aligns with how I approach photography: preparation matters, but execution matters more.
NAPA doesn’t try to be flashy. Instead, they focus on being ready when you need them. In a world full of noise, that kind of dependability is refreshing—and necessary.
