# Scene recipes

Ten ready recipes live in `scenes.json`; `scripts/build-input.mjs --scene <id>` fills the prompt from them. Each recipe names the setting, the light (direction and colour temperature) and the camera. The light line is the most important: the product must look lit by the room, not by the studio it was photographed in.

| Id | Best for | Light |
|---|---|---|
| cafe-counter | Coffee, tea, snacks, packaged food, mugs | Low morning window sun from the left, 3200K. Add steam or a cup with `--props` when it fits the product |
| bathroom-shelf | Skincare, soap, haircare, candles | Frosted-window daylight from the left, 5200K |
| desk-flatlay | Stationery, tech, headphones, notebooks | Window daylight from the left, 5000K |
| outdoor-picnic | Drinks, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses | Late afternoon sun from behind-left, 4500K, rim light |
| kitchen-marble | Oils, spices, cookware, tableware | Bright window from the right, 5500K |
| bedside-table | Candles, sleep aids, books, lamps | Warm lamp 2700K plus cool dusk window |
| gym-bench | Bottles, supplements, trainers, bands | Overhead 4800K plus cool window kick |
| travel-hotel | Luggage tags, cosmetics, wallets, cameras | Golden-hour window, 3000K |
| garden-table | Tools, planters, drinks, outdoor goods | Dappled open shade, 5000K |
| studio-lifestyle | Anything premium, hero images | Large softbox left, 5200K, accent shadow |

## Picking a scene

1. Where would a person actually use or keep this product? Start there.
2. Match the product's scale. A tube of cream belongs on a shelf or a vanity, not a sofa.
3. Make the scene's colours complement the product's. A black-and-kraft bag looks best against warm wood, not against another kraft surface.
4. Pick the ratio for the channel: 4:5 for Instagram and listings, 1:1 for grids and marketplaces, 16:9 for web banners and hero sections.

## Writing a custom scene

Use `--scene "custom:<description>"`. A good description has four parts: the surface the product sits on, two or three blurred things behind it, where the light comes from, and the time of day. Keep it to two sentences. Avoid brand names and anything with text on it, because the model will invent lettering.

## Props

Props sell the story (steam, a lemon, a towel) but they compete with the product. Keep them small, off the label and out of the way. One living element (steam, a plant, condensation) is enough.