Did you really eat brunch if you didn’t take a photo of it? Our smartphones are allowing us all to be better food photographers. Here are 7 easy tips to help you improve your food photography game…
Use natural light
Natural light will always provide the best setting for your photos. It’s best to take a photo near a window or outdoors in the shade. Another way food bloggers fake this, especially in the evening, is by placing a cellphone flashlight directly over or behind the subject. Or you can use a portable light to help you a achieve that much needed light without the glare of a camera flash.
Download the app – foodie
Using the foodie app has been a game changer for me. This is app takes the best photos of food, better than your regular smartphone camera. It also has an array of great filters that work well for food photography. You can edit immediately after your photo has been taken within the app. Download ASAP!
Add a human element
Including a person’s hand (your own or someone else’s) or using cutlery within the scene can help create a sense of movement in an otherwise static image. Adding a human element to your food photos can help you tell a better story.
Take numerous photos
Try different angles, add a human element, play with the exposure on your phone. You’re better off taking 20 photos and getting one awesome shot than quickly snapping one or two that come out poorly. Stand up and take an overhead shot of your food, or duck down to meet your plate at a 45-degree angle from the table. The more photos you take, the more comfortable you’ll become with your smartphone food photography skills.
Never zoom manually
If you want a detailed shot, you should physically step closer to your subject instead of using the digital zoom. This holds true for any smartphone photo as the zoom will make your images look pixelated. It’s better to take the photo as is and crop later.
Take a test shot and then fill in gaps
Test shots are key to achieving that picture perfect food photography photo. If there are gaps in your table, rearrange your plates to balance out the empty spaces. Beyond accessorizing you can include other elements like cool chairs or textured flooring.
Start thinking like a food stylist
Wait a minute for that ice cream to drip, ruffle the cloth napkin near the dish or sprinkle that parmesan cheese. You’ll also come to understand which foods are photogenic and which ones are not, how to adjust your framing or stylistic approach on the fly. Those are the details that will help you make beautiful images. Most importantly, don’t forget to have fun with it!
