As a food blogger, one of my goals is to always to improve my photography skills with each new post.
Years of reading and/or browsing through fellow food bloggers sites I have picked up a few tips and tricks along the way. Seeing the beauty that others create has encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone, learn more about photography and push myself to try new things.
Here I share some food photography tips that work for me.
Begin with the Freshest Ingredients - Food photography often highlights the ingredients in the recipe and many food bloggers shoot the process from beginning to end, so avoid damaged fruit or vegetables. If your schedule shifts and you are left with less than fresh ingredients, consider chopping or dicing for the picture or arrange/ angle your shot to cover the flaws.
Quick tip: Buy a spray bottle, fill it with water, and use it to refresh raw fruits or veggies that start to dry up
Try a Before and After Shot – Many new cooks enjoy seeing the entire process, step-by-step when attempting a new recipe. If not possible why not try one picture of all the ingredients diced or chopped prepped and a final shot of the completed dish. This works well for stews, soups and mayo based salads which are sometimes difficult to photograph.
Quick Tip: Lightly soak sliced apples, pears or avocados in lemon juice to slow browning
Invest in a Tripod: Tripods provide stability which allow for longer shutter speeds and sharper photos. Tripods give the added bonus of hands-free action for any last minute changes to your plate.
Quick Tip: Not every final dish has to be on a plate. Photograph that amazing soup in the soup pot or snap away on those freshly made cookies while still on the baking sheet
Capture the YUM: When styling your photo make sure to showcase the beauty of the dish. A few crumbs from a slice of pie, maple syrup oozing down the side of a stack of pancakes or warm butter melting over a baked potato. Make readers crave your recipes.
Quick Tip: Keep Q-tips on hand for quick clean-ups
Add a Personal Touch: Why not snap a picture of you stirring that amazing pot of mole or capture one of your children holding your latest cupcake. Add a touch of the human element and let’s face it everyone loves a cute kid!
Quick Tip: White foam boards are cheap and a great way to bounce light back onto the plate and reduce shadows.
Garnish, Garnish, Garnish: This is one of the easiest ways to enhance your latest creation. Fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness to the plate. Was citrus used in the dish? Add a slice of citrus or zest to the plate for a wonderful color contrast.
Share: Have a great tip or trick? Please Share.
image source: Sweet Life