Creating stunning food photos doesn’t require a professional studio. Here are some tips to turn your kitchen into a photo studio with limited resources!
2008: The Year I Started with Photography
In 2008, I started with photography. I got a gift from my dad: a Nikon D90. The only condition was that I could keep the camera if I took 200 different good photos every month!
2015: Turning Every Meal Into a Photoshoot
In 2015, I decided to turn every meal into a photoshoot on the Healthy Laura blog. Fast forward to 2024, I’ve learned the art of balance a little bit more.
The Journey from Kitchen Flops to Photography Pops: A Food Blogger’s Tale
Before we dive into the culinary deep end, let me spill some tea. My journey into food photography was like learning to cook pasta – sounds easy until you turn the kitchen into a sauna and the spaghetti into mush. My artistic skills were on par with a toddler’s, but guess what? That didn’t stop me. So, if your idea of a good photo involves not dropping your phone into the soup, you’re in the right place.
Skip This Part: The Internet’s Favorite Disclaimer
Here’s where I tell you I’m no Ansel Adams of avocados, and everything here is my humble, occasionally clueless, but always enthusiastic advice. Take it with a pinch of salt. Or paprika, if you’re into that.
After gabbing about my photography “skills” in an interview, questions flooded in like my DMs after posting a particularly sexy lasagna. So, here are my not-so-secret secrets!
10 Not-So-Revolutionary But Totally Awesome Food Photography Tips
1. Practice Makes Perfect…ish
Turns out, you don’t need talent, just stubbornness. Experiment with angles like you’re trying to find your good side in a selfie. Overhead, side, upside down—get wild. Your food won’t judge.
2. Learning is Eternal, Like Leftovers
The Internet is a treasure trove of knowledge, and unlike my grandmother’s meatloaf recipe, it’s all free. Dive into tutorials, online courses, and yes, even those cringe university lectures. You never know when you’ll have an “aha!” moment over a plate of nachos.
3. Editing is Your Secret Sauce
Adobe Lightroom: Because sometimes, your salad needs a bit of digital dressing. Skip the filters; we’re going for Michelin stars, not fast food vibes.
4. Manual Mode: Be the Boss of Your Camera
If your camera’s on auto, you’re letting it decide what your food looks like. Take control. Show it who’s boss. RAW format is the secret ingredient to mouth-watering images.
5. Love Thy Food
If you don’t get a little excited about what you’re photographing, neither will anyone else. Passion is the difference between a good photo and a great one. Also, you get to eat your models. Bonus!
6. Get Inspired: Chefs, Pinterest, and That Fancy Restaurant You Can’t Afford
Ideas are everywhere. Steal like an artist, but don’t actually steal. Be inspired by the culinary world around you. Then, add your own twist, like pineapple on pizza (controversial, I know).
7. Digital Detox: Because Sometimes, You Need to Chill
Overwhelmed by all the foodie greatness online? Step back, take a breather, and maybe go for a run (or don’t, I’m not your mom). Clearing your head is like resetting your taste buds—everything feels fresh again.
8. Finding the Light: Become a Window Stalker
Good light is like the secret spice blend—without it, everything’s bland. Natural light is your BFF. Just remember, no harsh sunlight unless you want your veggies to look like they’ve been on a sunbed.
9. Don’t Shoot Hangry: The Struggle is Real
Ever tried photographing food on an empty stomach? It’s like grocery shopping while famished. Everything looks good, but your photos? Not so much. Eat a snack, save yourself from eating cold, sad pizza.
10. Tell a Story: #ComfyJumpers and #DogsOfIG
Every photo should say something, like “Sunday mornings are for extra syrup on pancakes and pretending to read the newspaper.” Clothes, hands, pets—all props in the grand stage of your kitchen.
Now in 2024
Fast forward to 2024, I’ve learned the art of balance. Many times, I just put my camera aside and enjoy the food and the present moment. I’ve realized that planning my shoots better not only enhances the quality of my photos but also allows me to savor the experience more fully. This approach has made my food photography journey even more fulfilling.
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting, these tips will help you elevate your food photography game. Remember, practice, passion, and a pinch of creativity are all you need to turn your kitchen into a photo studio. Happy shooting!
Stay delicious,