Cooking up a masterpiece in the kitchen is an art form. With the correct ingredients and techniques, even the most novice home chef can “wow” a dinner party crowd. But, sharing a picture of you culinary crawdad casserole or a stack of crepes is the real challenge. Food photography isn’t easy, and taking the perfect shot is no simple task. Luckily, there are few simple tips to get you started in order to ensure you capture your culinary creations in the best possible way.
First Things First – The Utensils
Before starting your food photography adventure, make sure you have the right tools for the job. High quality digital cameras are already on the market, with many options providing the perfect clarity and resolution. If you’re looking for a professional-looking shot, look into a DSLR camera to capture mouth-watering images. Once you have the right camera, make sure you have an appropriate lens for your desired effects. A simple 50mm lens may work for a wider shot, while a more powerful lens like the 70-200 mm can give you a tighter frame.
Pay Attention to Lighting and Angles
If you think about it, lighting is the only way to capture anything on film. So when trying to capture food shots, pay close attention to the light sources you are working with. Creating shadows can give images more depth, and a three-point light setup can create a softer effect. You will also want to be aware of the angle you take the shot from, in order to ensure it is the best frame possible. Often times, shooting from a 45-degree angle allows for the most interesting image possible, or if you are trying to highlight a certain aspect, shoot from an elevated angle.
Find the Right Background
When taking pictures of food, sometimes the background can be even more important than the subject. Finding the right background for the food is key in accentuating your culinary creations. A plain black or white background can draw more attention to the food item, while using a colored background can create a bolder image. For a more natural look to the food, using props like cloth napkins or plates to match the theme can create added depth and interest in the final photo.
Style the Food Appropriately
The last tip relates to how you actually style your food. Using various condiments, sauces, greenery, flowers, and spices can add to the overall image and the natural appeal of the shot. If shooting a sandwich, for example, think about putting the small details on the top layer of the sandwich instead of inside. Doing this draws more attention to the texture and design of the food itself.
With these food photography tips, you should be ready to start shooting and capturing your culinary creations in all their glory. Enjoy your adventure and happy shooting!