Food Photography Tips
As a wedding photographer, I have to be able to capture a quick shot of a plate of appetizers or an artfully designed wedding cake at a moment's notice. Over the years I’ve learned new techniques to take photos for restaurants, cooking blogs, and my stock photography portfolio.
If your food photos look more unappetizing than mouth-watering, you might just need a few tips on lighting and styling the most delicious photos. I’m serving up some of my favorite tips for getting the shot.
These are my tips for taking better food photography photos:
1. Layer, layer, layer
Layering is my secret to taking more interesting food or product photos. When setting up your shot, use at least three layers to give your images quality characteristics. For example; a napkin, dish, and garnish would be three layers and would appear on top of one another. in this photo I have bread on top of a plate on top of a napkin on top of a table. I also have other dishes and garnishes spread throughout. It helps to create a mood and tell a full story.
2. Shoot in natural light
Natural light is the secret sauce in food photography. That is if you want your images to look appetizing! A great food photo should make your mouth water. Use a table near the window and get closer to the light source for brighter, more natural images. I love to use a simple sheet of white or colored paper as a backdrop. Soft light is great for food photography but don’t be afraid to play with direct light as I did in the photo below! It creates a really interesting and eye-catching look.
3. Explore different angles
When planning a shoot, take the time to get the most out of it! Here are the 3 most basic shots you’ll want: An overhead shot, a frontal shot, and a 45° degree angle. An overhead shot captures the whole scene. A frontal shot creates a focal point on the subject and a 45° angle emphasizes the details of a plate.
4. Use hands
In food photography, a little human interaction is a great way to bring your photos to life. Simply by adding the human touch you can create more visual interest.I’m talking about hands! Include hands preparing food, someone reaching for the food, a hand holding a glass or coffee mug, etc. You can even be interacting with your props ex: having someone lighting a candle.
By implementing these four simple tips, You’ll take your food photography from yuck to yum! Now what can you do with all those appetizing images? Download my Stock Photography guide to find out!