Upgrade Your Photography Gear? When & Why!

Learn when and why to upgrade photography gear with smart tips for better photography results without overspending.

Learn when and why to upgrade photography gear with smart tips for better photography results without overspending.

If you’ve used your photography gear for a while, you’ve probably wondered when is the right time to upgrade your camera or lenses. It’s very tempting to think the latest gear will instantly make your photos better, but the truth is a bit more nuanced.

The “Good Enough” Principle

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is knowing when your gear is “good enough.” Before you spend big on new

equipment, ask yourself these questions:

  • Can my current camera or lens capture the images I want?
  • Am I limited by my skills or by the gear itself?
  • Will upgrading solve a specific problem I’m facing (Like struggling with fast action?)

If you’re confident your gear can handle what you want to shoot, your energy is probably better spent practicing, learning new techniques, and just generally improving your skills. This will be a lot more helpful in the long run.

When Gear Really Makes a Difference

There are definitely times when upgrading your gear can have a noticeable impact:

  • Shooting in challenging light: Newer cameras often have better sensors and noise control, letting you shoot cleaner images in low light. That’s especially true for action shots or handheld photography.
  • Fast-paced photography: That’s mostly for sports, wildlife, and events photographers who benefit from faster autofocus and higher frame rates.
  • Specialized needs: Macro photography, photographing for large prints and so on, can also be reasons to looking for some new gear.

If your photography style or goals don’t demand these features yet, consider holding off on the upgrade.

Above: A photo taken in early 2019 with my old camera (left) and a photo taken in mid-2019 with my current camera (right). Can you spot any difference in the quality of the image?

Upgrading Gear For Two Reasons

When upgrading any photography gear, it can help you in two ways:

  • It can help you get a better quality of your image
  • It can improve the photography process

I personally often find the second reason is a lot more common for whenever I upgrade gear (It, of course, depends on the piece of gear itself).

How to Decide If It’s Time to Upgrade

Here’s a quick checklist to help you decide:

  • Is your current gear preventing you from capturing the shots you want?
  • Have you fully explored the capabilities of your current camera, lenses and other gear?
  • Will new equipment expand your creative possibilities?
  • Can you comfortably afford the upgrade without financial stress?
  • Are you ready to invest time learning and adapting to new gear?

If you answer yes to most of these, an upgrade is probably worth considering.

Remember: Growth Comes First

Ultimately, the best way to improve your photography is to focus on your skills (composition, lighting, storytelling) rather than chasing the latest gear.

Gear is only a tool that can bring your vision to life, but it’s your concept and creativity that make the final shot. Upgrade when it feels right for you, not because of pressure or trends.

Final Thoughts

Photography is a journey. The gear you have today can take you far if you use it well. When you do decide to upgrade, make it a thoughtful choice that aligns with your goals and inspires you to create more.

Invitation to the Food To Frame course

Outdoor Food Photography: Behind the Scenes of My Autumn Shoot

In this post, I’m taking you behind the scenes of an outdoor food photography project that turned from a creative challenge into a true joy to create.

In this post, I’m taking you behind the scenes of an outdoor food photography project that turned from a creative challenge into a true joy to create.

I am taking you behind the scenes to uncover how I took some sunny, cozy autumn photos for one of our retreat sponsors. (This post is not sponsored by them.)

I was really inspired by the drink, which was a vine liqueur with spices that go perfectly with the autumnal feeling)

Here’s a short recap of what I’ll share:
The Vision Behind the Perfect Photo
Overcoming Challenges in Outdoor Food Photography
Time To Style: Creating the Perfect Autumn Setup
Capturing the Golden Hour Light
Planning The Photoshoot Was Key
Essential Tools for Outdoor Food Photography
Post Production Magic
Final Photos

Let’s start and break the entire process down a little bit.

The Vision Behind the Perfect Photos

The idea was to shoot the drink and the beautiful bottle on a sunny autumn day. Something that would accentuate the lovely dark red color of the drink I was photographing and give that lovely, cozy autumnal vibe.

Overcoming Challenges in Outdoor Food Photography

The problem was that it would be ideal to make the photos look like it was shot in a vineyard, but I don’t live in an area with vineyards (only beautiful mountains and fields)

So I had to scout the perfect location. Something that would be reminiscent of the vineyard look. I was searching for grassy areas that have some dried brownish grass and no houses in the back (which can be a bit tricky here).

Fortunately, I already shot a video this year in an area that would fit this description, so I just needed to find a micro-location that would work.

Tip: When you scout locations for outdoor shoots, it is convenient to save them in your Google Maps in a separate list of these locations. I like to save them as we hike or drive around our area (or beyond).

Once I found an area with beautiful high grass, I had to check if it would work for the camera angles I wanted. My idea was to use the lovely warm autumn backlight, so I first walked around looking through the camera to see if there were any distractions (which may be removed from photos, but I also wanted to record a video).

This is the place with some bushes on one side and a field of soil on one side.

Time To Style: Creating the Perfect Autumn Setup

Often, when I photograph products, I like to keep the scene relatively clean and not too busy. This was also the case here, especially since the light would be a big part of the photo, so I avoided cramming the frame with many props.

I found an old wooden drawer that would act as a table, brought a vase, and picked some branches with leaves at the location ( to match the color and look of the scene). I also had a few linen napkins with me, just in case I’d need an extra layer of interest, and a linen apron, which I used as a skirt.

In this post, I’m taking you behind the scenes of an outdoor food photography project that turned from a creative challenge into a true joy to create.

Capturing the Golden Hour Light

Outdoor shoots require patience 😅. Usually, the timeframe for that perfect golden light is pretty narrow, and in this part of the year, it also gets cold very quickly after the sun sets (hence also the decision for fewer props). Once the light was starting to get right, I started recording and taking photos and even reshot a few after the light changed (just in case!).

In this post, I’m taking you behind the scenes of an outdoor food photography project that turned from a creative challenge into a true joy to create.

Planning The Photoshoot Was Key

Yes, since I was mainly going for the video, I had a list of frames listed in my notes app on the phone and then used those same scenes also to take photos, which I’m showing you today. Just like with any photography, outdoor food photography (especially in a tight timeframe like this one) is a lot easier when you plan things ahead, which includes creating a moldboard and a shot list.

Essential Tools for Outdoor Food Photography

Was there anything else that helped me with the photoshoot? Yes, first and foremost, I had two helpers – my husband and my son there to help me if necessary. But my most essential helpers were my two tools – my tripod (I chose a smaller lightweight one, so I could more easily carry it around) and my phone to connect it with my camera for wirelessly taking the photos.

In this post, I’m taking you behind the scenes of an outdoor food photography project that turned from a creative challenge into a true joy to create.

Post Production Magic

While the light and the scene were lovely, I always like to use editing to bring all those details in the story and my subject out.

But there was also one issue. I was working fast and didn’t really have the time to clean the glass after each take properly. Also, in some of the shots of the bottle, my reflection was clearly visible. So, these were things I had to remove in post-production.

Final Photos

These are just a few photos I took on the day and I think I got the vibe even without having access to a vineyard. What do you think?

Special thanks to my husband for providing the BTS photos ❤️

An Insight Into Our Mixology and Cocktail Photography Retreat

Check out our recap of the Mixology and Cocktail Photography Retreat, where we mixed cocktails, captured stunning photos, and built a wonderful community in a beautiful countryside setting.

Mixology and cocktail photography retreat - cover photo

My wonderful colleague Suze Morrison and I had the great pleasure of organizing a mixology and cocktail photography retreat called Mix, Snap, Sip Retreat in September, and what a fantastic time it was! For a few days that will never be forgotten, we brought together a group of passionate photographers to mix, test, and take pictures of cocktails. There was electrifying energy in the air!

I want to thank the wonderful creatives who helped make the week so memorable and share some behind-the-scenes photos from the retreat in this blog post. Are you prepared to start our retreat? Let’s begin!

DAY 1: GREETING OUR VISITORS

The retreat took place at the gorgeous Upwey House, a charming old country mansion nestled in south England.

Seeing everyone get comfortable in this welcoming space was an incredible honor. After the welcome cocktail and some cheese plate nibbles, we had dinner together, and we shared the amazing gifts with our guests – courtesy of our wonderful sponsors. Everyone had the opportunity to unwind, savor delicious food, and bond before the mixing and snapping part began.

DAY 2: FULL SWING INTO MIXOLOGY AND COCKTAIL PHOTOGRAPHY RETREAT

One of my favorite sessions, cocktail photography and styling, opened up Day 2. I demonstrated two different light setups with different moods to illustrate how I use natural light to build the mood and tell a story. Everyone was excited to see how small lighting adjustments could impact a picture, which led to many creative ideas.

I was amazed by how incredible the team of creatives was—so enthusiastic, prepared to learn, and connected. It was lovely to see how quickly everyone clicked. As a host, you never quite know how the dynamic will develop. There was a great sense of connection from the very first night, which set the stage for an inspirational and memorable retreat.

DAY 3: PERSONALIZING COCKTAILS AND ARTIFICIAL LIGHT SHOOT

We kicked things off with an artificial light demo with three different light setups. We played with creating different moods using artificial light instead of natural light, which is my preferred choice for my client work. The most fun part was when we made an action shot – a lemon squeeze. We made some mess, but also had a lot of fun!

In the afternoon, Suze shared her knowledge of making infusions, syrups, spritzes, and more at home. Her insightful advice on personalizing drinks inspired everyone to come up with inventive ways to create them.

We made sure that everyone had enough time to put what they had learned into practice as the day came to a close. Attendees concentrated on creating gorgeous cocktail photos for their portfolios.

The group had such a cooperative and upbeat vibe. I was reminded of why I enjoy hosting as I watched the guests exchange advice and try out various perspectives.

DAY 4: CREATIVITY AND PORTFOLIO BUILDING

We began the day with Lightroom and Capture One editing demos. Suze and I showed how we use editing software to bring the raw photos to life. I also shared how I retouch my drink photos so that everybody could go home equipped with useful tools to improve their editing!

The afternoon was all about time off and connection. We visited a tiny but cozy teahouse in the village and experienced a delicious traditional high tea. We shared massive platters (I’m not exaggerating!) of savory treats and sweets. After some rest, we headed to a nearby pub for delicious classic English pub food. Did I mention we had sooo much food 🙂

We spent the last evening of our amazing retreat getting to know one another better next to a warm fireplace. It was a touching conclusion to an exceptional retreat full of connection, fun, and treasured memories!

DAY 5: A FINAL GOODBYE (BUT NOT REALLY)

We finished the retreat on a bittersweet final day. After a delectable breakfast, we packed our bags with priceless memories and said our sincere goodbyes—or, better yet, “see you later”.

It is incredible to see how much each person develops personally and creatively during these retreats. You all contributed something distinctive and different to the retreat, and it was enjoyable to see your inventiveness in action.

Mixology and cocktail photography retreat - upwey house

I WOULD ESPECIALLY LIKE TO THANK OUR ATTENDEES

I want to express my sincere gratitude to all of the amazing creatives who came to our retreat! Sharing this event with each of you was a delight, and your passion and commitment made it extra special. One of my favorite things was seeing you interact, grow, and encourage one another. I’m looking forward to seeing what incredible things you’ll do in the future!

It was a pleasure meeting you all, and a huge thank you to everyone who contributed their special energy to the group.

Lou Carol Sabrina Victoria Claudia Janie Ana

I also want to sincerely thank Lea for her priceless assistance in planning, managing, and hosting this event. I would also want to express my deepest gratitude to Aimee for helping Suze prepare all of the delicious meals that kept us motivated and inspired during our time together!

Finally, I want to thank Suze, my amazing co-host. It was an absolute honor to observe her work and learn from her mixology skills, and I am incredibly grateful for the chance to work with her on this retreat.

A HUGE THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS FOR THE MIXOLOGY AND COCKTAIL PHOTOGRAPHY RETREAT

I truly appreciate the kindness and assistance of our sponsors. For us and our guests, you added even more memorable touches to our retreat:

Outfits: Son de Flor
Limoncello & teranino: Destiljara AurA
Rum: Bumbu Rum Co.
Mead: Hive Mind Mead & Brew Co
Gin: Cambridge Distillery, Elephant Gin, Shroton Fair Gin
Ginger drinks: The Dorset Ginger Company
Tonic: Double Dutch
Glassware: LSA International
Ceramics: Pots By Nives, Tri Lukne
Candles: Jula Tuta
Spices & jams: Steenbergs
Chocolate: Lindt UK

DO YOU WANT TO ATTEND A RETREAT?

I hope to organize another retreat because this one was such a memorable experience. Follow me on Instagram or subscribe to my newsletter so you don’t miss when there’s any new information.

FINAL THOUGHTS

To all our attendees, my co-host, the entire team, sponsors, and everyone involved—thank you from the bottom of my heart for making this retreat such a success. It was an honor to teach, learn, and create alongside such a talented group of people. Until next time, keep mixing, styling, and capturing the beauty in everything!

Whiskey Photography – Case Study

Take a look at how I approached whiskey photography for a personal project to build my photography portfolio.

Take a look at how I approached whiskey photography for a personal project to build my photography portfolio.

‘Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.’

With almost nine years of experience in food and drink photography, I’ve built a reputation for helping national and international brands showcase their products.

Today, I’m thrilled to share the behind-the-scenes details of creating a striking image featuring a glass of whiskey. These insights highlight how the right expertise can captivate potential clients. Join me as I walk you through the process behind this spectacular photograph!

This was a personal project I did earlier this year. Personal projects are great ways to show your potential clients your skills and the way you can serve them.

For this particular photoshoot, I wanted to create a mysterious look, which I wanted to add to my portfolio.

1. Pre-production

The idea for this shot was to focus on mood and the space where whiskey might be served. I created a moodboard to help me hone in on the final look.

2. Setup and execution

I immediately knew this was going to be a photo created with multiple light sources because I needed to emphasize smoke with backlight but also light up the glass from the side to show the drink and garnishes better.

Take a look at how I approached whiskey photography for a personal project to build my photography portfolio.

This is also a topic we will more deeply dive into at the Mix, Snap, Sip Retreat in September 2024, a retreat designed to upscale your drink photography, videography, editing, and mixology skills.

To create smoke, I used a fog machine (the ones that are used for events), which I really love because it creates a lot of smoke and operates on a remote control (which is very helpful on a set!).

3. Fixing and adjusting

At first, my idea was to add some ‘room-related’ objects in the back, but just a little. I did not want the frame to be too crammed. However, once I tried a few different setups, I felt like the one with more elements had more soul. This just goes to show, that an idea can evolve during a photoshoot and you need to be alert of the things that are working or not working.

Take a look at how I approached whiskey photography for a personal project to build my photography portfolio.

Then, it came to creating the perfect smoke. I took over 30 photos, to make sure I had options. I actually like to take a few photos even after I already feel like I got the right one, just in case. Better to be safe than sorry, right?

Take a look at how I approached whiskey photography for a personal project to build my photography portfolio.

I ended up creating an extra photo where the garnish on the whiskey was lit separately (with the addition of a white reflector) and then combined with the original photo in post-production. And an additional photo where I focused more towards the front of the glass, so ice at the front would be in focus.

4. Post-Production

I edited the photos in Lightroom using my personal presets and some tweaks and adjustments. Then, I used Photoshop to merge the original photo with the two extra photos of ice and orange peel, which would then make the final photo.

Take a look at how I approached whiskey photography for a personal project to build my photography portfolio.

5. Conclusion

When creating a personal project like this one, I like to focus on what is missing in my portfolio, but also what are the skills that I can showcase, so that future clients can see what I can offer them.

I find it very important to do planned projects like this whiskey photography one on top of more relaxing personal projects because they will not only give you awesome photos to showcase but also keep you up-to-date with how your portfolio is looking.

Take a look at how I approached whiskey photography for a personal project to build my photography portfolio.

Drink Photography Myths

Drink photography is a captivating area of photography, but it is often surrounded by a variety of myths and misconceptions.

I can say from my personal experiences, that these myths were holding me back in my work as I was discovering photographing drinks. In this article, we’re going to unmask five common myths that might be holding you back as you start exploring beverage photography.

Drink photography is a captivating area of photography, but it is often surrounded by a variety of myths and misconceptions. I can say from my personal experiences, that these myths were holding me back in my work as I was discovering photographing drinks.

Myth 1: I can only get natural-looking photos with natural light

There is no denying the captivating beauty of natural light. However, it’s not always available or present long enough to take the photo. On the other hand, sometimes using natural artificial light instead of natural light makes it easier for a photographer to recreate certain light situations.

When you start pushing your creative boundaries and experimenting with different light sources and how to use them to your advantage, another world of options will open. By understanding how light works in nature, you’ll start understanding how you can shape artificial light to mimic it.

Looking at the examples below you can see a comparison between two photos – one done with natural light and one with artificial. Can you tell one was not taken with natural light?

Great news: In the next Mix, Snap, Sip Retreat this September, we’ll work with both natural and artificial light. You’re invited to join!

Myth 2: The more complex the setup, the better the results

It’s easy to think that using lots of props and complex backgrounds will improve your setups—and sometimes, they will.

But that’s not a must. Commercial drink photography is often very simple and focuses on tiny details instead of large, complex setups.

A clean, uncluttered backdrop can serve as the perfect stage to showcase the drink in the best light. It helps hold the viewer’s attention, drawing them in with the vibrant colors, delicious textures, and interesting details that would have otherwise been lost in a busy background.

Myth 3: You need a lot of props to create a variety in your drink portfolio

Continuing with the simplicity of drink photos, you don’t actually need a multitude of props or a huge array of backgrounds to create variety in your drink portfolio. The truth is that with just a few props and a bit of creativity, you can produce a very diverse and interesting portfolio.

One of the things I learned throughout the years I’ve been working as a photographer is that having less options opens another creative part of our brain.

Here are a few examples to show you that simple props and focusing on the drink itself does not mean a boring photo.

Myth 4: Ice in the drink should always be perfectly polished in drink photography

Storytime. I used to hate not having the chance to buy beautiful perfect ice in the store (and was too lazy to make my own).

Until I realized that a lot of drinks don’t require a perfectly shaped ice cube.

Sure, there are some drinks and occasions when you’ll need that, and pristine, crystal-clear ice cubes can add a certain touch of elegance to your beverage images. However, when the drink doesn’t require that specifically, you can use imperfect-looking ice, and it will still look amazing.

Myth 5: Editing Should Make Your Drink Look Perfect

The reality is that editing is dependent on what the requirements of the job are. In the commercial world, we often see highly retouched photos, and they have a place in photography, too. However, a lot of jobs you might get are a lot more loose.

That said, knowing what you need to edit and retouch is crucial. It is also helpful to know when overediting will make your drink look artificial, and your photo loses its droll-worthiness.

Editing is a huge part of the photography process and is the cherry on top of any photo. We’ll dive deep into editing and retouching in the Mix, Snap, Sip Retreat. We’re waiting for you to join 🙂

Conclusion

The world of drink photography is full of myths.

But, once you start questioning these myths, you’ll find that drink photography can be simpler and more fun than you first thought. Remember, great photos aren’t just about fancy equipment or complicated setups. They’re about mastering the basics like lighting, framing, thoughtful editing, and a creative approach.

How Is Drink Photography Different from Food Photography

Drink photography is growing in popularity on social media platforms, and many beverage brands require outstanding drink photos, which is where your beverage photography skills help immensely.

This post explores the nuances of beverage photography, including the unique challenges, creative techniques, and essential equipment required to master this craft and create stunning visual masterpieces.

Drink photography is growing in popularity on social media platforms, and many beverage brands require outstanding drink photos, which is where your beverage photography skills help immensely.

Drink photography is an area of photography that often goes hand in hand with food photography, but at the same time, these two types of photography have unique differences that set them apart.

One of the most significant differences between drink photography and food photography is the lighting. Drinks are typically transparent or translucent, so the lighting must be just right to capture the drink’s texture and color in the most flattering way. Food photography, on the other hand, mostly doesn’t have translucent or transparent texture, but will feature other textures that you may not find in drinks.

Another difference between drink photography and food photography is the styling. Drinks are often served in glasses or bottles, which means you must consider the glass’s shape, size, and color when setting up the shot. With food photography, styling can be done in many different ways. You generally have many more possibilities for presentations and props.

Essential Equipment for Drink Photography

As a professional photographer, I know that having the right equipment is key to creating outstanding photos. Here are some of the essential equipment you will need for drink photography.

Lighting Differences

Unlike food photography, drink photography requires a different approach to lighting. A good place to start is with a simple lighting setup that includes simply a window or a softbox or umbrella, a reflector, and a backdrop.

The key is to understand how to place the light (or multiple lights) and modifiers so they will work for the drink, specifically.

More advanced commercial drink photos often require more than just one light. This means that working with natural light is almost impossible and you need to understand how to work with multiple flash or light units together.

Lens Selection

The lens you use for drink photography is arguably even more important than the camera itself. A good lens will help you capture the details of your drinks, such as the bubbles, garnishes, and condensation. A macro lens is a great choice for capturing those intricate details. It allows you to get up close and personal with your subject, which is essential for capturing the details that make your drinks unique. And in comparison with a lot of food subjects, drinks are tall subjects. This means that using a lens like a 100mm lens would remove distortion significantly.

Props and Accessories

Props and accessories add a lot of visual interest to your drink photography. Some essential props for drink photography include cocktail glasses, straws, garnishes, and ice cubes. You can also use backdrops, napkins, and other accessories to add texture and color to your shots. Just be careful not to overdo it. The main character is still the drink. Too many props can be distracting and take away from the beauty of the drinks.

Styling Techniques For Drink Photography

When it comes to drink photography, styling is crucial to make the drink look appealing and refreshing. Here are some of the styling techniques that I use to capture stunning drink photographs.

Glassware

Like with food photography, the vessel where the drink is served is very important. But in contrast to food photography, in drink photography, the vessel is usually a highly reflective glass.

Choosing the right glassware is essential to creating an aesthetic appeal in drink photography. I usually prefer to use transparent glasses with a unique shape or texture to add visual interest to the photo. But it is also important to understand how the cocktail is created so you can use appropriate props and make the important things shine. For example, a martini glass would be perfect for a cocktail, whereas a mason jar would work great for lemonade or iced tea.

Beverage photography is growing in popularity on social media platforms, and many beverage brands require outstanding drink photos, which is where your beverage photography skills help immensely.

Liquid Clarity

The clarity of the liquid is another crucial aspect of drink photography. Different drinks have different clarities. As photographers, we need to make sure they are correct. While using plain colored water for drink photos is super helpful (and I do it all the time for personal projects), making a real cocktail in the way it is done by professionals is crucial to make it look exactly as it needs to look.

Additionally, it is important to learn how ice works together with the liquids so that the drink keeps its intended color and texture.

Ice and Condensation

In drink photography, we often use ice and want to portray the look of a chilled drink with condensation. This is something that we don’t have in the majority of food subjects.

Ice and condensation add a refreshing touch to your beverage photography. However, using them wisely is important, as too much condensation can make the glass look messy.

Any drink photographer must know and understand how and when to work with natural and artificial ice.

Post-Production

After capturing the perfect shot, it’s time to take the image to the next level with post-production techniques. In drink photography, post-production is crucial to enhance the visual appeal of the drink. Here are some common post-production techniques used in beverage photography.

Color Correction

Color correction is an essential part of post-production for any type of photography. This technique involves adjusting the colors of the image to make them look more vibrant, appealing, and, most importantly, true to life. In drink photography, color correction enhances the color of the drink, making it look more appetizing.

Retouching Splashes and Bubbles

Retouching is an area of post-production that is done for any type of photography. However, it differs when it comes to retouching foods and drinks.

When it comes to drinks, we are often retouching smooth glass and liquids. This require different techniques than retouching something with more texture, such as food.

Retouching splashes and bubbles is another important post-production technique used in drink photography. This technique involves removing any unwanted splashes or bubbles in the image and enhancing the ones that are present.

Beverage photography is growing in popularity on social media platforms, and many beverage brands require outstanding drink photos, which is where your beverage photography skills help immensely.

Conclusion

While drink photography and food photography share many similarities, they also have unique differences that set them apart. From lighting to props, lens selection to post-production, mastering the art of drink photography requires a deep understanding of these differences and the ability to use them to your advantage. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just starting out, understanding these differences can help you take your drink photography to the next level.

How To Take Sharp Photos (Using A Tripod)

Here are my best food photography tips for you to take sharp photos when using a tripod.

Here are my best food photography tips for you to take sharp photos when using a tripod.

I’ve been using a tripod for most of my food photography journey. However, I’ve not always achieved that sharp look, and for a very long time, I wondered why. I am doing everything right. My camera is on a tripod, after all.

Well, yes, I’ve done the first step. But I’ve also done other things that made the camera connected to my tripod move ever so slightly—just enough to create a slight blur in my photos.

Often, the blur is not visible when looking at the entire photo. It is just a little less sharp.

But when you look up close, you can see those pixels are ever so slightly blurred.

So if you’re not getting super sharp photos, even when your camera is on a tripod you should be doing these things:

Must-have techniques to take sharp photos when using a tripod:

1. Remote Shutter Release

A remote shutter release allows you to trigger the camera’s shutter without physically touching the camera. This minimizes the risk of camera shake, especially when using slower shutter speeds. By operating the shutter remotely, you avoid the slight movements that can happen when pressing the shutter button directly on the camera body. Remote shutter releases can be done through a wired remote control or tethering or wireless remote control or tethering. There are a lot of options out there!

2. Self-Timer

When using a tripod without a remote shutter release, setting a short self-timer delay allows any vibrations from pressing the shutter button to settle before the photo is taken. Self-timer options often include up to 10-second delays, giving you enough time to release the shutter and step away from the camera before the exposure starts.

3. Stabilize the Tripod

Properly stabilizing the tripod is key for minimizing vibrations and ensuring steady support for the camera. Try keeping the tripod legs fully extended and securely locked in place. Position them as wide as possible for maximum stability, especially if the floor is uneven. Additionally, not extending the center column of the tripod helps minimize vibrations.

4. Weighted Tripod Setup

To increase stability and minimize vibrations from external factors like walking around your tripod, you can add additional weight to it, such as hanging a camera bag or attaching sandbags. BUT be mindful of the distribution of weight to make sure the tripod is balanced, because you want to prevent the tripod from tipping over.

Here are my best food photography tips for you to take sharp photos when using a tripod.

5. Use a Sturdy Tripod & Tripod Head

Invest in a high-quality, heavy-duty, and stable tripod. The same goes for a tripod head. Choose one that locks firmly and ensure it is securely attached to the tripod to minimize potential movement.

6. Turn Off Image Stabilization

Image stabilization (IS/VR) is a valuable feature for handheld shooting as it compensates for small movements of the camera to produce sharper images. However, when using a tripod, image stabilization can actually introduce vibrations and cause unwanted blur. Check your camera manual to see how you can switch from image stabilization on and off.

7. Avoid Walking Around or Touching the Camera

Once the camera is set up and focused, it’s crucial to avoid touching or bumping the camera or tripod during the exposure. Even slight movements or vibrations can mess with the sharpness of the image, especially when using slower shutter speeds or long exposures. I like to minimize movement around the tripod so I can truly take sharp photos.

Conclusion

In photography, taking sharp photos is a highly respected goal. While using a tripod lays the foundation for stability, it’s the finer details that truly make the difference between a sharp-enough photo and a super-sharp one. By implementing the techniques outlined in this article, you can remove the camera shake quickly and easily.

Invitation to the Food To Frame course

Finding New Clients For Food Photographers

Finding new clients does not mean waiting for prospective clients to find you via Google search or Instagram. It means being proactive in both presenting your work to the random eyeballs (aka posting online) and actively reaching out to new potential clients.

Finding new clients does not mean waiting for prospective clients to find you via Google search or Instagram. It means being proactive in both presenting your work to the random eyeballs (aka posting online) and actively reaching out to new potential clients.

So many photographers I work with leave finding new clients to chance.

Many just wait around for clients to find them and wonder why they are not getting any new work. They think that posting on social media is enough exposure for potential clients to find them.

That’s simply not the case.

I can tell you from my experience that relying solely on social media is not the most effective way to get the dream clients you’ll love working with.

Taking matters into your own hands gives the power back to you.

In this article, I want to address how you can find new clients yourself without waiting for them to find you.

Here’s a quick recap of the article:

  1. Re-visit what clients you want to work with
  2. Create a list of clients
  3. Use your network to spread the word

Re-visit what clients you want to work with

As our career as photographers progresses, so does the vision of our ideal clients.

For that reason, I suggest revisiting what an ideal client means to you as a food photographer every now and then. I do this once a year when I set goals for my business.

Not only will defining the niche and ideal client help you narrow down who you want to work with. It will also help you build a portfolio that will attract those clients.

Create a list of potential clients

As a food photographer, you can work with a multitude of different clients. For example:

  • National or international magazines
  • National or international cookbook publishers
  • Local restaurants and bars
  • Large or small food brands
  • Branding and PR agencies
  • Stock agencies
  • Food bloggers and chefs

I like to keep lists of different types of clients so I can refer to a specific type of client, depending on what my goals are for the year or what clients I’d love to work more with at the given time.

Pro Tip: Keep your list at arms reach so you can add new potential clients on the go. For example, create an Instagram save folder for potential clients so you can quickly save them and move them to your lists later.

Keeping client lists will help you when you are ready to pitch so that you can focus solely on contacting them, which will streamline your pitching process.

Use your network to spread the word

We talked a bit about pitching.

Besides actively reaching out to potential clients, as creatives, we also benefit from the community. This may be a community of your friends and family or business communities.

Be prepared to speak about what you do and how you do it to anyone interested.

Don’t underestimate the power of networking and sharing your photography work with the people you know.

Share it in your personal space, online communities or attend networking events.

Just recently, I got to work with a client by being referred to them by one of my old contacts on Facebook. We haven’t even been in contact for a long time, but they referred me to someone they know.

Finding new clients actively is much less stressful

To conclude this article, being active in your client acquisition is the key to success as a food photographer.

Sure, posting on social media seems effective, but think about how much time and effort goes into that and how slim the chances are that a potential client will actually see your post.

Improve your pitching

When pitching, make sure you are well organized and have a schedule. If you need help with finding new clients and contacts, creating a schedule, and crafting emails, you can join the free 4-day Get Booked Workshop here.

Mastering Client Communication: A Guide for Food Photographers

In food photography, mastering client communication is just as crucial as taking the perfect shot. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure seamless client interactions and create the type of photos that will leave your clients wanting more.

In food photography, mastering client communication is just as crucial as taking the perfect shot. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure seamless client interactions and create the type of photos that will leave your clients wanting more.

Here’s a short article summary:

  1. Understanding Your Client’s Vision
  2. Communicating Your Photography Process
  3. Handling Client Feedback Gracefully

Step #1: Understanding Your Client’s Vision

Ask Detailed Questions About the Photography Project

I can’t stress enough how important it is to ask any question you might have, as silly as it might sound to you. Inquire about the desired style, mood, number, and type of deliverables, and so on to gain a comprehensive understanding of your client’s wishes, needs, and vision.

Visualize The Client’s Vision

Use all the information the client has given you to create a clear image of the end result in your mind. Create and share a moldboard with your client to ensure you are on the same page. As photographers, we are used to imagining things in our heads, but clients usually need a visual representation of what they will get. And this is what moodboards are for. I love using Canva to create moodboards for my client projects.

In food photography, mastering client communication is just as crucial as taking the perfect shot. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure seamless client interactions and create the type of photos that will leave your clients wanting more.

Repeat Their Words

What I started implementing a while ago is repeating everything they said to make sure I understood correctly. The thing is, we often understand things differently from the other person, so repeating it and asking if you understood correctly is one of the most important things to make sure you will do what your client expects you to do.

Step #2: Communicating Your Photography Process

Outline Your Workflow and Set the Expectations

It is imperative for a food photography project to be successful and to have clear communication with your client. Ideally, you want the client to understand how you work and their involvement in the process. This includes timelines for all the project steps, your fee or any additional fees that may arise, and what they need to do at each step. This way, you will avoid unhappy clients.

In food photography, mastering client communication is just as crucial as taking the perfect shot. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure seamless client interactions and create the type of photos that will leave your clients wanting more.

Step #3: Handling Client Feedback Gracefully

As photographers, it is our job to create photos as close to the client’s vision as possible. However, if you have done enough client photoshoots, there’s a high chance your clients weren’t always 100% happy. I like to approach feedback with an open mind, viewing it as an opportunity for improvement rather than criticism.

Sometimes, clients expect the photos to turn out in a way that is not ideal (they might not know it) or are impossible to do for the time frame, the budget, or it is physically impossible. It is very important to communicate this with the client in a respectful manner.

Conclusion

Mastering client communication is crucial for success in food photography’s competitive world. By understanding your client’s vision, communicating your process effectively, and handling feedback in a respectful manner, you can establish strong client relationships and create photos that they will love.

Implement these steps into your workflow to elevate your communication skills with your current and future clients.

And don’t forget to have patience when things don’t go as planned!

Want to get more photography clients this year?

Check my Client pitching email templates, which will help you create better outreach emails quicker.

5 Composition Tips For Better Drink Photography

Discover 5 unexpected methods to create better drink photography. From adding movement to embracing messiness, these tips will revolutionize your photography game. Ready for your photos to capture the eye? Dive in now!

Discover 5 unexpected methods to create better drink photography. From adding movement to embracing messiness, these tips will revolutionize your photography game. Ready for your photos to capture the eye? Dive in now!

Have you ever taken a photo of a beverage and felt like something was missing? Often, I see the students I work with struggle with creating a composition in their drink photos that would make their drink shine.

I am here to show 5 ways you can improve your drink photography today.

Composition Secrets For Better Drink Photography Overview

  1. Add some movement
  2. Use variety in garnish
  3. Use different glassware
  4. Don’t be afraid of being messy
  5. Let things overlap

Tip #1: Add some movement

Adding some movement to your drink photos will inhale life into an otherwise static photo. Consider adding a pour, a stir, or a splash to create a dynamic and engaging composition.

And you don’t need to stop with the ‘real’ action. If it makes sense for the drink you are photographing, you can make sure it has bubbles, giving it that lived-in, action feeling.

Tip #2: Use variety in garnish

In drink photos, we often have not just one subject but multiple subjects. It is easy to get caught in styling them all the same way.

Garnishing them slightly differently will give more interest to your drink photography. Maybe you add something extra to the drink that’s in focus, or you turn the garnishes in different ways. Always keep variety at the back of your mind.

Discover 5 unexpected methods to create better drink photography. From adding movement to embracing messiness, these tips will revolutionize your photography game. Ready for your photos to capture the eye? Dive in now!

Tip #3: Use different glassware

Similarly to the previous tip, you can consider using different glasses for the same drink inside your frame.

Not only can you add interest this way, but you can also add variety in heights, textures, sizes, and colors.

Discover 5 unexpected methods to create better drink photography. From adding movement to embracing messiness, these tips will revolutionize your photography game. Ready for your photos to capture the eye? Dive in now!

Tip #4: Don’t be afraid of being messy

Being messy is often that step at the end of your composition-building process that makes the photo look natural and simply more interesting to look at. And at the end of the day, it makes the photo more drool-worthy.

So, don’t be afraid to add some of the garnishes or ingredients of the drink around the frame.

Discover 5 unexpected methods to create better drink photography. From adding movement to embracing messiness, these tips will revolutionize your photography game. Ready for your photos to capture the eye? Dive in now!

Tip #5: Let things overlap

This is one of my favorite composition techniques that adds dimension and a sense of space to any photo.

Positioning the elements inside the frame in a way where some of the elements visually overlap, crates connection withing the frame and makes it look more natural (less staged).

Discover 5 unexpected methods to create better drink photography. From adding movement to embracing messiness, these tips will revolutionize your photography game. Ready for your photos to capture the eye? Dive in now!

Interested in creating better drink photography?

Check out this instant access Drink Photography workshop.

Elevate Your Festive Food Photography

Let’s elevate your festive food photography together!

It’s that time of the year again when we bring on the most delicious comforting foods, spend time with family, and bring out our decorations.

I love this festive season so much and love capturing its spirit in my food photos.

For that reason, I am sharing a few things I pay attention to when I take festive food photos during the Christmas time and New Year’s festivities.

Incredible tips for festive food photography! I am sharing a few things I pay attention too when I take festive food photos during the Christmas time and New Year’s festivities.

Crafting a narrative with festive decorations

An engaging Christmas story is a photo that takes you on a journey that makes you immediately feel like you’re a part of the festivities.

However, just adding decoration does not create a story that your viewers will relate to. Dig deeper into what those decorations represent and how they can be involved with the food and the scene. What is the setting WHERE THE FOOD IS USUALLY PREPARED OR SERVED?

And don’t forget! The decorations are here to add to the story and not distract from it. Make sure to use decoration that matches the scene in:

  1. Size
  2. Style
  3. Color
  4. Texture

If any of these four key characteristics are off, the balance of the frame and the story will be off, too.

Keep in mind that it’s usually better to take one thing away than add more to the scene.

Be creative with styling

Christmas time is the time when we can be a little bolder with our styling choices. So why not use the decorations you use in real life as part of the set or a part of the dish?

You can include Christmas ornaments in fun ways in the scene like I did in the two photos below.

Here are a few decorations to spark your ideas:

  • Tree ornaments
  • Other sparkling ornaments
  • Pine branches
  • Festive twines
  • Christmas candles
  • Porcelain houses and decorations
  • Pine cones

Engaging the senses: Festive smells and cozy feel

Festive food is all about the delicious smells.

Think about how you can place and style your food subject so you can showcase the taste and smell of the delicious foods. Which food elements can you add to the scene to showcase the taste of your foods? Cinnamon, star anise, oranges, and similar foods are very common for this period.

Our tables are usually filled with baked sweet goods that have a lovely crumbly texture, so don’t be afraid to showcase it. Adding a crumb here and there will give the viewer the idea of how crumbly a freshly baked festive dish feels when they eat it.

The festive season is something that we often associate with a warm and cozy feeling. To convey that sense in a frame, try adding elements that remind you of it.

This can be some elements that are more common, such as warm fabrics, candles, twinkle lights, and materials we associate with a homely feel. Regardless, it can also be something very personal to you or to the viewer who will be looking at the photo.

The composition has a big part in a cozy feel as well since we often use the type of setup where the elements are closer together to convey that warm connection.

We actually touched on this in the 3-Day Composition Masterclass + how to convey different moods and stories into our compositions.

Playing with Christmas lights

Christmas lights simply add that magical touch to Christmas food photos. I love using twinkle lights in my festive food photography. And beautiful as they are, they also can be challenging to figure out.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when you use festive lights in your food photos:

Keep an eye on the aperture

Make sure the aperture is as low as it needs to be to get the twinkle light to be nicely blurred, and you get that beautiful bokeh. There is no set rule here as to which aperture to use, but I encourage you to test a few apertures to see which one feels best for the scene.

If the twinkle light is too small and not blurred enough, lower your aperture.

Take a look at how the difference in apertures looks in real-life examples below, where I used apertures f3,5 and f4,5, which may sound very similar, but the look is very different.

Keep the lights at a distance

Distance plays a key role in how blurry the twinkle lights will be. The further they are from the camera if they are behind your focal area, or the closer they are to the camera if they are in front of your focal area, the more blurry they will be. What does this mean?

I like to play with twinkle lights placed behind the subject and make them blurrier. I like to place them quite far away in the back. For a larger scene, this may mean they are a meter or more away. When you photograph a scene from a closer perspective, they can be closer than that.

Test a few distances and see how they make your twinkle lights look.

When you want to create more interest in a festive photo, you can even place the lights before your subjects and place them very close to your lens to create a lovely, soft, blurred effect in the foreground.

Beware of the twinkle light placement

Twinkle lights are very bright and can easily overpower your subject. It is easy to get overboard with lights and add too many to the scene.

Keep an eye on how balanced your composition looks. Does your eye go to the lights or the food? If your answer is light, then you will most likely need to remove a few.

Most importantly, have fun creating festive food photography!

65 Expert Food Photography Tips from Professional Photographers

Since the first day, I knew I wanted to be a photographer (or possibly even before that!) I knew observing and stepping into the world of other photographers was super interesting and incredibly helpful. I have learned so much about professional work from others over the years and am continuously inspired by other professionals in and outside of it.

I wanted to bring you a bit of this world in this article.


My photography colleagues have generously shared their best food photography tips, revealing everything from creating the best light and styling the food to be truly drool-worthy to their best business and mindset advice.

65 Expert Food Photography Tips from Professional Photographers

 My photography colleagues have generously shared their best tips, revealing everything from creating the best light and styling the food to be truly drool-worthy to their best business and mindset advice.

BEST FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

1. Learn to ask questions

When you have created a scene and taken a couple of test shots, ask yourself, “What can I do to this scene to take it to the next level?” I ask myself this every time, and although sometimes I have already created what I think is the best version of the setting, there is almost always another little detail that I can tweak to make it even better. It might be adjusting the lighting, changing the composition slightly, adding a hand or some movement, or a final little garnish for detail.
Nikki Astwood, food, beverage and product photographer

2. Shoot everything!

The great thing about food photography is that we all eat daily, so it’s a perfect excuse to photograph our favorite subjects. The more you shoot, the more confident you become in your skill.
Matt Armendariz, commercial photographer

3. Double diffusion makes a huge difference

I prefer to double diffuse when I am photographing drinks. That way, you can make the diffusion really soft (attached is an example).
Maaike Zaal, food and beverage photographer

4. Keep on working on your personal projects

I always encourage food photographers to do as much test shooting and portfolio building in their spare time as possible. It helps you develop your skills, creativity, and technical knowledge and gives you material for social media and promotions. Also, clients are very interested in seeing personal work because it helps them understand your style and abilities beyond the constraints client work usually puts on showing who we really are as photographers.
Darina Kopcok, commercial food photographer

5. Focus on nailing your lighting and editing skills!

Among the best decisions I ever made was investing in high-quality artificial lighting, which significantly elevated the quality of my work. Learning the nuances of image editing was equally transformative, taking my photos from ordinary shots to extraordinary masterpieces.
Wiktoria Gralka, food & product photographer

6. Go into every photoshoot, big or small, with some sort of plan/vision.

Write down ideas and draw out potential compositions, colors, props, and lighting concepts – there will be times when it doesn’t work, but being prepared in advance will more likely than not end up in success!
Tanya Pilgrim, food & beverage photographer

7. Chase the light!

Always be aware of how the light hits your subject and never be afraid to shape it.
Suze Morrison, food photographer, stylist & chef

8. Exercise your ‘ skill of observation’.

To become a better photographer, we must first become a better observer. Begin by intentionally slowing down, engaging your senses, and looking a little closer and with more curiosity to notice the often-overlooked details around you. Maybe it’s the way the backlight illuminates the white currants on a bush. It could be the unique scent associated with a specific season, a seasonal dish, or an ingredient. Maybe it’s the intricate details of a sage leaf texture. Or ‘sparkling’ droplets on those sage leaves after a rainy day.

This practice can help you notice more of the magical ‘little things’ that surround us every day. It can help you discover something extraordinary in ‘ordinary’ and capture it through your own lens. And it’s always worth ‘sharpening your lens,’ as the way you see is what makes YOU unique.
Bea Lubas, food photographer 

9. Lighting is the key to a beautiful photo

Over the years, I have learned that lighting is probably the most crucial part of food photography. A soft, flattering light is what you want, whether it comes from natural or artificial sources. When light is too harsh or too dark, exposing your subject properly and getting the best image quality becomes more challenging.
Chad Montano, food photographer & videographer

10. Be honest about your goals and skills, stay open to learning, and practice to improve.

Focus your efforts on the areas of your workflow that need improvement, whether it’s food styling, photography, editing, or the business side. Once you’ve improved one area, move on to the next and continue this cycle. Trust me, you won’t be bored ever again.
Kristina Smodila, food stylist & photographer

11. If shooting with natural light, don’t be afraid to move things around to find the best light.

Carry what you will shoot around the house, try out different windows, and see what light works best for the mood you want to create. Try out different angles. I love to shoot with side light and shoot at a 45-degree angle, a 90-degree angle, or a flat lay. I tend to try all these angles for each thing I shoot.
Aimee Twigger, food photographer

12. Don’t be afraid of Photoshop and editing.

Sometimes, doing something in post-processing is easier than getting it done during the shoot.
Julia Konovalova, food photographer 

13. Try not to replicate what others are doing

Strive to carve your own path, even if it means making mistakes along the way. Find your authentic voice. Initially, it’s okay to imitate, but eventually, develop your own unique aesthetic. This differentiation will help you stand out from the crowd and be more competitive.
Erika Rojas, food Photographer

14. For beginners, the backlight is always the top tip I recommend.

It adds beautiful depth to the photo, shows the textures, and adds beautiful tonal contrast to the images.
Lucia Marecak, food photographer and educator

15. Never. Stop. Learning.

Even after years of shooting, I still learn something new. Learning is actually what keeps me interested and motivated. So don’t stop at the first book, video, or course. Keep going! Study other niches, too.
Roberta Dall’Alba, photographer

16. Pre-planning is key to delivering a successful project.

I cannot stress enough how planning ahead of your shoot is so important. Practice the lighting you’ll use, sketch if needed, take test shots with props, etc. This will help solve any issues ahead of your shoot, leaving most of your time to focus on creating beauty.
Gabriel Cabrera, commercial photographer

17. Work with the gear you have until you master it.

Invest in new items only when you find a technical bottleneck situation and/or start earning money with photography.
Reka Csulak, photographer & mentor

STYLING & COMPOSITION

18. Keep it real

And don’t be afraid to think outside the box!
Matt Armendariz, commercial photographer

19. Plan, plan, plan!

A very important one is to PLAN your photo shoots (unless when you’re having one of those “freestyle” creative moments:) which I totally support) – by planning, you can ensure you buy everything you need (and more) and the best-looking ingredients.
Roberta Dall’Alba, photographer

20. Keep it simple

Let the star shine. Props are supporting characters.
Gabriel Cabrera, commercial photographer

21. I think the most appealing food photos are those that look the most organic.

Use lots of supplementary ingredients to not only add visual style elements but also add context to your dish or subject. Scatter herbs, berries, nuts, seeds, etc, and then tweak them so they don’t look too placed. Be loose. An artfully placed drip or drizzle will bring viewers into the scene and imagine how good the subject is to eat.
Darina Kopcok, commercial food photographer

22. Think about what kind of mood/feeling you want to portray from your image before anything else.

Lighting and propping should come more naturally once you’ve made that decision.
Tanya Pilgrim, food & beverage photographer

23. Put aside some money from each paying job

… that you can use to invest in quality props that you really need to curate the type of prop collection that supports your style.
Reka Csulak, photographer & mentor

24. While working with color in food photography, it’s best to keep it simple.

Too many colors overcomplicate the process. If monochrome or one color is hard to work with, select two or max. three colors & work only with them in the composition. Choose props, backdrops, and garnish in line with the selected colors. 

Working with a limited palette does not distract the eye with too many colors, saves time by making decision-making easier, tells a cohesive visual story, and builds our skill of working within boundaries.
Dyutima Jha, food photographer and podcaster

25. Don’t be afraid to show a few flaws.

Very few of us bake perfect cakes, have clean set-ups, etc. A few crumbs, holes, and drips keep things real. Not everything needs to be edited in Photoshop.
Suze Morrison, food photographer, stylist & chef

26. I always keep a little bit of avocado oil on hand.

I like to add it to something like a steak or bread to give it a layer of sheen. When light hits it the right way, it will create that beautiful specular highlight.
Chad Montano, food photographer & videographer

27. Think in layers

Whenever I am styling a scene, I start with a base first, then layer props and ingredients on top from there (or in front or behind if it’s an angle/front-on shot). I start with the larger pieces of my scene and end with the small detailed pieces that I call the garnish that really bring the scene together and create that added depth and interest.

As important as having all the right props and ingredients in your scene, it is equally important to know how to edit and remove anything that doesn’t make sense or is cluttering up the frame and detracting from your hero.
Nikki Astwood, food, beverage and product photographer

28. It’s about texture and color

I love to use props that are old or rustic. They have a cozy element to them. I love color, but I find it pleasing to try and use props that go well with the subject. The color wheel is really handy here. Think about different textures, too. It’s great to add different layers of texture, even if it is just the seasoning or styling on the plate.
Aimee Twigger, food photographer

29. Look for props in the clearance sections.

Sometimes plates and dishes have cracks or chips that could easily be photoshopped or covered with food.
Julia Konovalova, food photographer 

30. Less is often more.

When it comes to styling and props, don’t overcrowd your composition. Choose a few carefully selected elements that complement the food or drink. Keep it simple, and let the main subject shine. Sometimes, a single well-placed prop can make all the difference in your shot.
Erika Rojas, food Photographer

31. Add some greenery

Green herbs always go well and improve the photo no matter how “ugly” the food is 🙂
Lucia Marecak, food photographer and educator

32. Add a human element

If I struggle to tell a story in a shot with the food and props on their own, I love adding a human element. It could be just hands or some movement.
Aimee Twigger, food photographer

UNEXPECTED TIPS & HACKS

33. When you’re short on time to set up a real background, use two backdrops

One for the table and another for the wall, like tiles or wood, to create a genuine space vibe easily.
Kristina Smodila, food stylist & photographer

34. I used to only shoot handheld, but in the last few years, I tend to use my tripod for most shoots.

It’s great as it means the camera stays in one place, so if I need to composite any of the shots with Photoshop, it makes it easier. Especially for client shots if I need labels to be clear. If I am shooting for a brand, I like to have a plan of what I need to capture beforehand. That way, I can get all the shots I need.
Aimee Twigger, food photographer

35. Tether on client photoshoots

If you can, use an iPad and set it up to tether further away from the set so the client can see the images you are making without them hovering over you.
Gabriel Cabrera, commercial photographer

36. Get creative with painted backdrops.

Instead of buying expensive backgrounds, you can create your own unique backgrounds for food photography by painting them. Use a large piece of sturdy cardboard or a wooden board as your canvas. Experiment with various colors and textures to match the mood of your dish. With a bit of creativity and some paint, you can have a custom backdrop that adds character to your food photos.
Erika Rojas, food Photographer

37. Turn images into black & white while editing to check the level of tonal contrast.

It helps to understand how much tonal contrast the photo has and helps edit images in a better way.
Lucia Marecak, food photographer and educator

38. Use gelatine in spray for beautiful droplets

Something I’ve learned from another photographer (Valentina Solfrini): to make vegetables and fruit look fresh, instead of water, use spray gelatine. I don’t always do this, but when I do, I see how cute the droplets look (especially when they don’t “vanish” after just a few minutes). Also, it’s NOT inedible, so you can still eat the food without throwing it away.
Roberta Dall’Alba, photographer

39. Correct things right in front of the camera

This way you can save time in post-processing and avoid losing pixels via extensive corrections.
Reka Csulak, photographer & mentor

40. Once you have taken your hero shot and are happy, walk around your set and snap from different angles.

You will be surprised by what you find. Sometimes, this is what makes a new hero.
Suze Morrison, food photographer, stylist & chef

41. Take multiple photos.

The more, the better. I like using a variety of focal lengths and compositions to get different looks.
Chad Montano, food photographer & videographer

42. Learn creating composites

The coconut splash picture (below) is created from several pictures: one with a clean coconut and then several others with the splash and falling coconut pieces. I combined them all in Adobe Photoshop.
Maaike Zaal, food and beverage photographer

43. Be purposeful with your prop shopping

Buy pieces that will last and be able to be used for multiple scenes and themes. For food photography, I love to have a mixture of more modern and some vintage props, which makes for a great collection.

Clear out regularly as well, and take anything you don’t use to the second-hand store. As we all know, props can get out of control.
Nikki Astwood, food, beverage and product photographer

44. It’s food, so there aren’t any hacks, really.

We can’t mess with it too much, as that’s not the nature of food. Just keep shooting as often as possible and use the best light you can get!
Matt Armendariz, commercial photographer

45. When in doubt, use side backlighting.

It has such a great way of wrapping around the light. Angle your set to the window or place your light at 10:00 or 11:00 if you imagined your set like the face of a clock with your camera at 6:00.

Assess your scene as you style and compose by bending down to the same level as your lens so you can see the way the camera does. And always, always shoot tethered so you won’t miss the small details that can make or break a photo.
Darina Kopcok, commercial food photographer

46. For lighting, I like to make sure my main subject/focus is lit the way I need it to be, first and foremost.

Then, I like to step back and see where I can add more dimension if needed. Is there something that can help enhance the scene I’m creating? Take your time where you can and play around!
Tanya Pilgrim, food & beverage photographer

47. Create endless variations of cake stands

Buy a candle holder you like and combine it with any plate you like to create an original cake stand.
Maaike Zaal, food and beverage photographer

Lately, I’ve been creating my custom cake stands using just a cup or bowl and a plate. These stands are unique and can be personalized to match any style. This tip can save you some money and space. (Example in the photo of a cake below).
Kristina Smodila, food stylist & photographer

PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS TIPS

48. If we want to create a successful business in food photography, we cannot look for instant results.

Like any other business, it takes time to build a client base, get the word out, hone our skills, establish our process, and gain momentum. It is tough in the beginning, but only because it’s new to us. The more we do, the easier it gets. We cannot try out food photography for a short time and then give up, saying, “It didn’t work for us.”

There is no such thing as overnight success.

Anyone who has made a name in the industry has done so by doing the work without giving up. It is 100% possible to build a profitable and sustainable business as a food photographer. As long as we are patient, know what we want, and pursue it relentlessly, a thriving business in food photography is guaranteed.
Dyutima Jha, food photographer and podcaster

49. Try to add lots of different styles to your portfolio.

Even if you prefer to shoot in one style, I find it’s best not to niche down too much there. It’s good to show what you can do.
Aimee Twigger, food photographer

50. Business skills are just as important

In our line of work, business acumen is just as important as the ability to create beautiful visuals.
Reka Csulak, photographer & mentor

51. Photography is a hard business to be successful at.

It comes with a lot of ups and downs. It’s all about connections and relationships. If you have a great shoot, that client will hire or recommend you again. It takes time to build a clientele and find consistency, but it’s definitely achievable with a creative and positive mindset.
Chad Montano, food photographer & videographer

52. Photography business is a business of people

While we may be running a business or taking photos of cakes, never forget that we are the business of PEOPLE. Relationships matter most.
Matt Armendariz, commercial photographer

53. You need to be pitching constantly.

Sending out targeted pitches and proposals every week to the clients you want to work with will transform your business. If you never post a single image on social media again, you can have a successful career through active pitching.
Darina Kopcok, commercial food photographer

54. Don’t be afraid to invest money into your business.

It will ultimately stop you from growing!
Wiktoria Gralka, food & product photographer

55. Spend less time worrying about your Instagram feed and more time focusing on your portfolio.

Make your portfolio tell a cohesive and compelling visual story.

This means curating your work in a way that not only showcases your technical skills but also conveys a consistent style and a clear narrative. Whether through color schemes, lighting choices, or the overall mood, make sure that every image in your portfolio aligns with the story you want to tell about your expertise and the type of clients you want to attract.

All your marketing efforts should lead potential clients to your portfolio, where you display your best and strongest work. A well-structured, visually engaging portfolio showcases your talents and leaves a lasting impression on potential clients.
Fanette Rickert, food & product photographer

56. Developing a business mindset is an ongoing process.

Stay committed to personal and professional goals, polish your skills and strategies, and remember to play and experiment to sparkle your creativity. Don’t be afraid to say YES to projects that scare you and NO when your gut tells you to.
Kristina Smodila, food stylist & photographer

CREATIVITY & MINDSET

57. Use your senses to guide your style.

Mood boards are useful, but leave them aside and use your imagination to guide you. Would you eat that food? Would you drink that cocktail? What would make you drool? Use that to create your signature look.
Gabriel Cabrera, commercial photographer

58. Stay true to your creative vision while also adapting to market demands.

Invest time in building your portfolio and marketing your skills to prospective clients. Maintain a growth mindset, continuously learn, and seek inspiration from various sources. Be patient and persistent in your journey, as success in food and drink photography often comes to those who blend their artistic flair with strong business acumen.
Erika Rojas, food Photographer

59. Food Photography is a lonely job.

Many creators fall into the trap of comparison, which blocks their creativity, and they lose their passion. If you feel this way, I strongly advise you to meet other creators (photographers) in person and talk and shoot together for personal projects or help them as an assistant for their client shoots. This will help them find passion again.
Lucia Marecak, food photographer and educator

60. Stay true to yourself, and be inspired, but never copy.

We are all creative. We just have to harness our unique style.
Suze Morrison, food photographer, stylist & chef

61. Always prioritize inner work, working on your mindset.

I cannot stress enough how important it is to be able to persist, not give up, and actually succeed (whatever success means to you:) because that’s different for everybody).

The very first step – as cliche as it may sound – is BELIEVING in your skills, in what/who you can become. Results are a natural consequence. Believe in your uniqueness, trust your vision, and do what makes you feel alive.
Roberta Dall’Alba, photographer

62. Always go with your curiosity.

This is something I have been working on a lot lately. Don’t rush things. If you feel something would look better with an extra prop or different lighting, try it out and see how it looks. When you say to yourself, “What if I did this?” it is the time to experiment and see where it takes you. I often get a better result, making the whole creative process run more smoothly.
Nikki Astwood, food, beverage and product photographer

63. Don’t get too caught up in what other photographers are doing

Your work is unique, and there are space and client needs for everyone: creativity ebbs and flows. Make sure you give yourself the space you need to recharge your creativity from time to time.
Tanya Pilgrim, food & beverage photographer

64. When I am feeling stuck creatively, I love to take my camera and take photos of something totally different from food.

I like to shoot nature. I take my camera with me on a dog walk and just take photos of things I see on the way. It often sparks a new idea for me. 
Aimee Twigger, food photographer

65. This is a tough one, but don’t get too caught up in the numbers.

I found that one thing that hindered my creativity was creating for the sake of creating. I felt like I had to have something to post on Instagram, and it had to be something that would get likes. I found it was ruling what I created. Since I have decided not to worry about those things anymore, I feel like a weight has been lifted, and I feel so much more authentic when I do create.
Aimee Twigger, food photographer

Creating Depth in Food Photos: A Quick and Simple Technique

Creating depth in food photos is often spoken about, but what does it really mean? 

We are about to uncover what depth in food photos stands for and learn a straightforward technique to add depth of space to your frame. You can achieve it in many different ways, and I’m going to show you two of the simplest ones. But trust me, they can make a world of an improvement in your food photos.

Creating depth in food photos is often spoken about, but what does it really mean? A simple way to creating depth in your food photography.

What is depth in food photos?

Depth refers to a perception of three-dimensionality in the frame. When done right, it gives the illusion of space and volume. It also gives the subject space to stand out and makes the frame appear more realistic and natural.

The easiest (and also essential) way to add a three-dimensional feel to a photo is to create a background, middle ground, and foreground.

What are the background, middle ground, and foreground?

The middle ground is, in short, the part of the photo where the focus lies. It is the middle part of the photo in terms of depth. It is the part between the foreground and the background. This is the part of the frame where your subject lies.

The background is the part behind the middle ground (or your subject), and the foreground is the part of the photo in front of the middle ground. That’s the space between your subject and the camera.

A photo may include only the middle ground and foreground (without the background) or the middle ground and background (without the foreground). And that is up to you to decide what works best for the subject you are photographing and feel you want to create.

However, in a lot of situations, when the photo lacks a sense of space, adding both a background and a foreground is ideal.

How to add a background and a foreground to a food photo?

In this article, I am going to show you two techniques I use in my work to make the background and foreground work best.

In short, to do that, you want to make the background and foreground blurry in regard to your middle ground, which is in focus.

Distance

Adding distance between the elements in the middle ground, foreground, and background is the easiest, most clear way to add a sense of space.

Imagine having your subject on a table that is right next to a wall. The distance between the subject and the wall is so small that both are relatively in focus. That means the sense of space is not as pronounced.

Let’s look at the photo below. I started with a cup placed so it touched the background. What this means is that both the background and the middle ground are in focus. Actually, there really isn’t any background at all. At the same time, nothing significant is placed in the foreground of the image as well, making it look flat.

Creating depth in food photos is often spoken about, but what does it really mean? A simple way to creating depth in your food photography.

When I moved the cup towards the camera a bit, I was able to create a separation, and the background was already a bit blurred. I also placed some elements in front of the cup, making them appear a bit blurry. In this photo, you can already feel a sense of space.

Creating depth in food photos is often spoken about, but what does it really mean? A simple way to creating depth in your food photography.

What if I went even further? In the next photo, I placed the cup further from the wall, and now the wall looks even more blurred. What that means is that now there is a clear focus on the cup, which is the main subject. It is beautifully isolated while still having a context of what is happening around it.

Creating depth in food photos is often spoken about, but what does it really mean? A simple way to creating depth in your food photography.

That being said, the first two photos are not bad. And I am not saying you absolutely need to follow this all the time. But hopefully, this will give you an idea of how differently a photo can feel, depending on how much depth you create.

We will talk more about depth in an upcoming workshop with Bea Luba and me. In order not to miss it, get on the waitlist!

Aperture

Using aperture is an addition to using the distance between the elements. If you learn to use both together, your photography will skyrocket. And this is why you’re here today!

To sum it really quickly, aperture can be used to control the amount of light hitting the camera sensor, but it also controls how much of your scene is in focus.

When setting the aperture on your camera, you will find that it is measured in f-stops. We won’t go into detail as to how that works. If you want to know more, check Food To Frame.

  • The higher the f-stop, the more of your scene will be in focus. Meaning more of the background and the foreground will be in focus.
  • The lower the f-stop, the less of your scene will be in focus. That means that lower f-stops create more of a separation between the foreground and the background, leaving the middle ground in focus.

Let’s look at a practical example.

In the photo below, I had my backdrop placed quite far away from the scene, but it is still not blurry enough for this photo. The pattern is too recognizable, and there isn’t enough separation between the subject and the background.

Creating depth in food photos is often spoken about, but what does it really mean? A simple way to creating depth in your food photography.

I used an f-stop 11 in the photo, making a big chunk of my frame in focus.

Now, let’s look at the second photo. I left the setup exactly the same (besides some greenery), except I switched the f-stop to 2.8, which is the lowest setting on the 100mm lens I used to take this photo.

Creating depth in food photos is often spoken about, but what does it really mean? A simple way to creating depth in your food photography.

You can see how much more blurry the background appears. You can still see that there is some pattern, but it is very subtle. And with just changing the f-stop, I was able to create a sense of space.

Additionally, I added some greenery in front to add foreground and enhance the sense of space even more.

Conclusion

In conclusion, creating depth in food photos requires a bit of practice and observation. Observe how the background and foreground interact with your subject whenever you take a photo. Do these add a sense of space to the overall image?

Budget-Friendly Food Styling Prop Tips

In the eight years I’ve been taking photos of food, I learned how to collect the best props that don’t break your budget which I gathered in these food styling prop tips. What I found is that often, the most used props are not the ones that cost the most.

In the eight years I’ve been taking photos of food, I learned how to collect the best food styling props that don’t break your budget. What I found is that often, the most used props are not the ones that cost the most.

On the other hand, it’s also very easy to get caught buying cheap props that are nearly useless. 

I’ve thrown away quite a few inappropriate props I collected in my beginning years. 

To help you avoid that, I gathered my best tips to collect excellent food styling props you can afford which will last you a long time.

1. Shop at thrift stores and flea markets

Secondhand stores and flea markets are my number one favorite places to get affordable, unique props that often have a special character because they were previously used.

When shopping at flea markets, be prepared to haggle. Frequently, the price they offer you won’t be the last. So don’t be afraid to counteroffer what you’re prepared to pay.

My second tip about buying second-hand props would be to use your traveling or day trips to find unique props. I’ve heard from some of my students that there is no place to buy second-hand props in their area. In this case, you can use any time you go somewhere else to hunt down some thrift stores.

There are a few thrift shops and flea markets around my area, but I still like visiting them in other places because I can find different things there. I’ll give you an example. Vintage cutlery here is not easy to get if you want unique, decorated pieces. But in the area close to Italy, people have many more of those. So whenever I am there, I’ll visit a flea market.

2. Declutter and donate food styling props you don’t need anymore

This tip might sound weird, but give away props you no longer use. Maybe they are not your style anymore, or you simply don’t do projects that require that prop.

It is okay to let go of props you have accumulated if they don’t serve you anymore.

You can donate them to thrift stores or a friend who might use them.

Why give them away?

This way, you’ll have more space for either other props you use or more space and better-organized prop storage.

3. Buy props that can be reused in many situations

As you continue building your prop collection, you will notice how easily you can get your collection to full. Yes, you may have the space, but will you remember that you even own every single prop? Most likely not.

Therefore, I recommend building a collection where you can use props in many situations and combinations.

Buy props with a simple shape and texture and a neutral color. When considering color, buy white, off-white, beige and brown, light grey to dark grey, and desaturated blue food styling props.

4. Buy small props

Food and drinks often look better in smaller vessels. I recommend buying smaller props than you would use in real-life situations.

The glassware and tableware you’ll find in regular glassware shops are often too large for drink photography. I prefer buying them secondhand because those props are often smaller. Don’t ask me how that’s possible or if people used to drink less (because especially the glassware is smaller). I have no idea, but I know that most of the glassware I use in my drink photography is second-hand.

5. Don’t buy the entire sets

If you can, avoid purchasing entire large sets of anything. Chances are you’ll only need a few.

Depending on the style of photography you normally do, 3 of each is usually the magical number. Often, even two is enough.

The reason for that is that many compositions look best when you use three of something, otherwise called the rule of threes.

However, that doesn’t mean you need three of the same. Usually, the composition will look much more dynamic and exciting if the props are not the same.

I recommend buying four or more of the same food styling prop if you photograph a lot of carefully curated table scenes. And no other situation.

In the eight years I’ve been taking photos of food, I learned how to collect the best food styling props that don’t break your budget. What I found is that often, the most used props are not the ones that cost the most.

6. Use props you already have

Looking around your kitchen and dining room, you might spot some tableware that would look nice as a prop. Make use of those.  

If you photograph at home, you can even intentionally buy props or kitchen utensils and tableware that you could use in both photography and real life.

This way, you’ll save money and space.

One way to save money and space is to combine different food styling props you already own to make something else. I like doing this with cake stands. I don’t often photograph cakes on cake stands, so it wouldn’t make sense to have a lot of cake stands in my prop collection.

Instead, I combine a plate with a small bowl or a candlestick to create the illusion of a cake stand.

7. Paint your food styling prop

You heard that right. You can re-paint an old food styling prop or new finds to match your style.

In the example below, I bought a new wooden cutting board, which didn’t really have the look and color that would match my style. Instead of using it as I purchased it, I used a kitchen torch to make it appear used and worn out. I would recommend a better tool for that, but it worked!

In the eight years I’ve been taking photos of food, I learned how to collect the best food styling props that don’t break your budget. What I found is that often, the most used props are not the ones that cost the most.
Homemade ‘vintage’ cutting board

8. Save the bigger bucks for one-of-a-kind, artisan props.

In my business and personal life, I am a relatively frugal person. I save where I can, and the tips above are undoubtedly helpful.

Where I won’t save are some unique pieces, especially handmade ones, that will bring my food styling from good to great.

I recommend using a part of the budget to scout handmade ceramics in your local area. It is often cheaper to purchase the ceramics locally because shipping for heavy items can be pretty significant.

4 Essential Composition Tips For Better Food Photography (with Bea Lubas)

Here are four essential composition tips that will transform your food photography, adding flow and a natural feel to your photos.

Here are four essential composition tips that will transform your food photography, adding flow and a natural feel to your photos.

Composition is the part of the food photography process that is usually the most frustrating to students simply because there are so many elements and techniques to think about.

In this article, I joined forces with my friend Bea Lubas to bring you four essential composition tips that we use to make our compositions look natural and flowy.

These are easy composition tips that you can apply straight away. If you do, don’t forget to let us know in the comments or DM us on Instagram (@useyournoodles, @bealubas)!

So here are the four essential composition tips to help you compose your images more easily:

CREATING A SENSE OF FLOW (Anja)

Food photography is unlike a lot of photography genres. We, as food photographers, are there to create a beautiful composition. One thing that I like to create in my composition to make it appear more natural and organic is flow.

Adding flow helps lead the eyes through the composition and to your main subjects. There are many ways to achieve that, but my favorite is using curves.

Curves are imaginary lines that you use to place your elements inside the frame. It’s about positioning your props, dishes, and all the elements in the frame in harmonious progression. 

Curves can take different forms. You’ll hear me speak a lot about the S- and the C-curve in the article Using curves in food photography and some other curves as well. But actually, a curve can take any shape that feels natural.

Here are four essential composition tips that will transform your food photography, adding flow and a natural feel to your photos.
Photo: Anja Burgar

CHOOSING THE COLORS (Bea)

One of my favorite color techniques that you’ll see me use in my work over and over again is choosing props and the background in the same color.

This technique really helps to draw attention to the food, even if you decide to fill the scene with many items! And what color of props and background to go for?

This will depend on a few things.

  • Firstly, what color would help to enhance your subject? What color would make it ‘pop’?
  • Secondly, it will depend on the type of contrast that you’d like to create in your image. High color contrast can help to add a more energetic vibe to our image, and low color contrast can help to infuse our frame with a soft and gentle atmosphere.

When selecting a color, we can also consider color psychology and what emotion the selected color can help to evoke.

Here are four essential composition tips that will transform your food photography, adding flow and a natural feel to your photos.
Photo: Bea Lubas

ADDING SOME NEGATIVE SPACE (Anja)

Using negative space in a composition can give it a sense of balance. Not only in busy setups but also in simple scenes, the visual elements need a counterbalance to make the photo more pleasing to the eye.

My favorite way of including negative space in a frame is when I intentionally leave place inside the composition, especially around the main subject. This gives the entire composition some breathing space, makes it less intense for the eye, and, at the end of the day, brings focus to the main subject.

Creating negative space is a delicate balance. Finding a sweet spot might take a bit of experimentation, but when you find it, you’ll see how more relaxed the entire composition looks.

Here are four essential composition tips that will transform your food photography, adding flow and a natural feel to your photos.
Photo: Anja Burgar

CREATING A SENSE OF DEPTH (Bea)

A beautiful sense of depth can help to draw the viewer in and make our image more captivating, and it’s something I try to always pay attention to when building my compositions.

One of the techniques that I find very effective is to place the elements at different planes within the frame. Some items are in the foreground, some in the middle ground, and maybe some in the background, too.

When placing these elements around the frame, I also like to place the items one behind the other  – the overlapping helps to create more sense of depth and make the composition look more natural, too!

Here are four essential composition tips that will transform your food photography, adding flow and a natural feel to your photos.
Photo: Bea Lubas

WHAT’S NEXT

Composition is a beautiful yet delicate art. Knowing how to fill the frame so it tells just the right story is key.

To learn more about composition and put your new knowledge to practice, we invite you to join our 3-Day Composition challenge from October 5-7th. Get all the details in my IG highlights. But to dive even deeper into the topics + get more tips and our Composition Guide, head over here.

See you in the challenge!