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.
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.
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.
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!
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
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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:
Size
Style
Color
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.
f 3.5f 4.5
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!
https://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/elevate_your_festive_food_photography_cover_1.jpg13501080Anja Burgarhttps://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/logo_NEWW.pngAnja Burgar2023-12-01 14:30:582023-12-01 14:31:41Elevate Your Festive Food Photography
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
https://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/Creating_Depth_in_Food_Photos_A_Quick_and_Simple_Technique-6.jpg15001000Anja Burgarhttps://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/logo_NEWW.pngAnja Burgar2023-10-20 09:32:002023-11-09 23:38:19Creating Depth in Food Photos: A Quick and Simple Technique
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.
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.
Small glasses look more natural in a large table scene.Smaller plates fit the scene better than something you would use in real life.
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.
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.
I used a cake stand legg from another cake stand. I didn’t like the top original plate, so I remoced it and use the leg to create countless other cake stands.I used a small ceramic cup turned around to create a cake stand leg.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
I am sharing some of my favorite ways to create a focal point in food photography. There are simple techniques you can apply to take better food photos today.
If you ever took one lesson and applied it to your food photos, it would be this – make sure your photo has a focal point.
There are exceptions to this rule, like anything else in life, but truly keep this sentence in the back of your head. ALWAYS!
Creating captivating images is all about the viewer understanding and emotionally connecting with what they are seeing – your food photo.
And if you want to achieve that, you need to master creating a focal point in a photo.
If you’re looking to enhance your food photography skills and make your dishes pop off the screen, then you’re in the right place. Because in this blog post, we’ll delve into the concept of the focal point and its crucial role in food photography.
The Heart of Food Photography – The Focal Point
In food photography, the focal point is the heart and soul of your shot. It’s the element that immediately grabs the viewer’s attention, leading their eyes through the frame and making your subject shine.
So, what happens when your photo doesn’t have a focal point?
As I mentioned, there are times when there is not just one focal point. But in most cases, you will need only one focal point in the frame.
When you don’t have a clear and compelling focal point, your food photos risk falling flat and failing to engage your audience. So what that means is they will be confused with what they are seeing or have a hard time knowing what exactly is happening in the frame. Where should they be looking?
So, how can you master the art of creating a powerful focal point in your food photos? Let’s dive into these six super easy techniques you can use straight away to make your food photography a million times better.
For more in-depth concepts and techniques around the focal points and composition, enroll in my masterclass – Food To Frame.
Here are some of my favorite ways to create a focal point in food photography. Keep in mind that, in most cases, you will use more than just one of these techniques.
1. Leading Lines
Leading lines are one of the most effective and straightforward ways to bring the viewer’s eye to the focal point. But it is also quite tricky since you need to learn what works and what doesn’t.
These lines can take the form of utensils, tableware, or even the arrangement of ingredients and even just empty space. However, keep in mind that the subtlety of leading lines can be an art in itself.
When you skillfully blur out parts of your frame either in the back or in the front of your subject, this can create a stunning way to emphasize whatever is not blurred.
The depth of field is a super technical thing because you need to find that sweet spot in your camera settings, aperture to be exact, and the placement of the elements in the frame.
In general, we know:
Shallow depth of field, where the majority of the frame is out of focus, aka blurred and
Deep depth of field where the majority of the photo is in focus
And all the spots in between
Lower aperture settings create a shallower depth of field.
Higher aperture settings create a deeper depth of field.
When you can master how narrow or wide the depth of field your photos need, you have mastered one of the most powerful techniques for bringing focus into the areas you want without any distractions.
3. Post-Processing
Post-processing is where your food photos truly come alive. It’s that final way to make everything in your photo shine – especially the focal point.
During editing, make sure that your adjustments not only enhance the colors, textures, and contrast of your entire frame but also accentuate the focal point.
Any kind of local adjustments that you can apply to only parts of the photo will have a great impact on the way your final photo looks.
Using local adjustments, brushes, masks, and all this fun stuff is one of the things a lot of my students are super scared of. But trust me, it’s not too scary once you know how to work all the tools.
When you learn a new software, the first thing I suggest doing is learning to work with the tools that allow you to edit parts of the photo instead of the entire photo.
4. Play of Light and Shadows
Light is essential to any food photo, right? Well, so are shadows.
But the thing is, light is not just a way to make your subject bright and visible. It is far beyond that.
The way light and shadows play can not just add depth to your food photos but also create an emphasis on your subject.
Whether it is making it brighter, keeping the surroundings in the shadow, or having stronger shadows on the main subject in comparison to everything else, the possibilities are truly endless.
And I encourage you to explore light and shadows more.
5. Layering
Layering can be achieved in various ways. You can create layers in multiple ways, using the space around your subject.
I like to teach layering in different directions and how those affect the final photo, plus how the layers interact with each other.
Actually, creating a depth-of-field is one way of adding layers to your photo.
But one of the simplest ones is placing elements below your subject (which would be the props) and on top of your subject (which would be the parts of the dish or garnishes).
Layering adds depth and visual interest to your photos, so do not forget about it.
6. Enhancing Textures and Shape
Texture is something we don’t often associate with creating focus.
When intentionally enhanced or sometimes even reduced, texture can bring additional focus to a focal point. This can either be done through styling, camera settings, or, finally, editing.
Note that this is usually not the main technique for creating a focal point but rather something that supports all the other techniques.
Similarly, emphasizing shape through careful placement of both your subject or other elements in the frame can bring focus to that particular shape.
When a shape is clearly standing out, it will immediately attract our gaze.
Conclusion
With these six techniques and your creativity in your toolbox, you’re all set to become a pro at creating a clear focal point in your food photos.
Just like any craft, practice is the key element. The more you practice, the more intuitive these techniques will become.
And guess what? The next post is just around the corner. We’ll keep delving deeper into the exciting world of composition for food photography. So, stay tuned for more juicy insights and tips that’ll make your food photos absolutely delectable!
https://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/6-Ways-To-Create-A-Focal-Point-In-Food-Photography-Cover.jpg15001000Anja Burgarhttps://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/logo_NEWW.pngAnja Burgar2023-09-22 11:40:002023-09-22 14:04:596 Ways To Create a Focal Point in Food Photography
Uncover the secrets to an exceptional photography portfolio that will bring in trusted, high-quality clients and leave you confident AF.
Uncover the secrets to an exceptional photography portfolio that will bring in trusted, high-quality clients and leave you confident AF.
I like to see the portfolio as a representation of the skills and style you have, which are there to not only show everyone your gorgeous photos but, most importantly, be the entry point for your clients to see whether you two are a great fit for each other.
Only if you look at it this way will you be able to get clients who will end up being happy about your work and who will keep returning to you for more and more photos.
In this article, I gathered 4 of my top tips to apply today so your portfolio starts shining and bringing in those wonderful clients.
So, let’s dive right in.
Become comfortable with uncomfortable
My students would often say they are stuck in a rut and don’t know how to step up their photography. And it’s always because they are afraid to do something differently.
Embracing discomfort in photography is what pushes you to grow as a creative. It’s a process, and because of that, it takes time, patience, and persistence. By continuously challenging yourself, you’ll not only improve your photography skills but also develop a unique style that sets your work apart from the rest.
Two exercises to practice being uncomfortable
Next time you schedule some time for a personal photoshoot, do some research beforehand. Ask yourself, which is the one area you want to be brilliant at? Is it a specific style of photography, the way you edit your photos, or a certain composition style…? Define it and find examples for inspiration. Then, do everything the same way as you would normally, except for that one thing you defined.
Keep a journal. Document everything you learned during a photo session that pushed you over your boundary. Write down everything from what you observed to what your feelings were.
Get trusted feedback
Finding your mentor in the world of food photography can be a game-changer.
Seasoned professionals have an incredible amount of knowledge and insights, which makes it easier for you to determine what your focus should be and how you can create a portfolio that will talk to the kind of clients you want to be working with.
With the right guidance, you can refine your portfolio to perfection.
A great mentor offers constructive criticism, which is sometimes hard to hear. When I tell my students I’ll be brutally honest, they often get scared. But in the end, they are empowered to take action because they know exactly what to do.
So, don’t hesitate to seek out that guiding hand to improve your work and your photography portfolio. Your mentor can help you uncover nuances in your work that you might have missed.
Be extremely picky
It can be tempting to select photos we are personally fond of. And it’s hard to choose just a handful of images to display in your portfolio.
But the pickier you are, the more successful you will be at getting more clients and the type of clients you want to work with.
When choosing images for your portfolio, you need to consider these 3 things:
Is it the kind of work you want to be doing?
Are the photos showing your skills and versatility within your niche?
Do clients you want to be working with search for these types of photos?
If not, it’s a pass.
If yes, then you have to do the hard work narrowing down your selection so your portfolio is not overcrowded.
Start and end strong
Think of your portfolio as a story. Every story has a banging beginning to captivate the reader or listener. Then it has a lovely narrative taking you through the story. In the end, it finishes with an unforgettable ending.
If you treat your photography portfolio the same way, you’ll have a much better chance for brands to actually check each image and see it as a part of a story.
Start with show-stopping photos, continue with your carefully selected photos, and then finish off with something unexpected and, again, show-stopping.
https://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/4-Tips-To-Create-a-Killer-Photography-Portfolio-Cover-.jpg15001000Anja Burgarhttps://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/logo_NEWW.pngAnja Burgar2023-09-15 11:03:002023-09-14 16:12:404 Tips To Create a Killer Photography Portfolio
A food story is the secret sauce of any food photo. It engages the senses and evokes emotions in the viewer.
*This post is sponsored. All opinions are my own.*
What is storytelling?
In food photography, a single image can tell a story that goes beyond the plate. A well-crafted food story forms the foundation of every captivating food photo, giving the viewer more than just a visual experience.
When we create a narrative, it can:
engage the senses,
trigger emotions, and
create a personal connection with the viewer.
That being said, not every single food photo will have a story to tell. Photos of foods, dishes, or produce on a simple background, usually used for graphic design purposes, don’t normally tell any story.
Most of the others will have some sort of narrative. Some more, some less. Depending on the style and purpose of the photo.
In this blog post, I want to show you the art of creating food stories in an easy and understandable way so that your photos become more engaging and relatable.
How does a food story enhance your photos?
At the heart of every excellent food photo lies a straightforward food story. But what exactly makes people pause and feel a connection?
A food story is a carefully crafted frame that speaks to the heart. It has the potential to transport viewers to a specific time and place, or evoking emotions.
Emotions are the bridge that connects your food photo with the viewer. A well-crafted food story not only showcases the dish but also infuses it with emotions that resonate with the viewer. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread, the warmth of a cozy kitchen, or the nostalgia of a family recipe. These emotions create a sense of intimacy that draws the viewer in and invites them to engage on a personal level.
What is more, the way you tell stories in your photos allows you to define your unique photographic style. The way you see your subject and frame is entirely subjective, giving your photo a unique point of view.
Crafting a story
Think about book authors. What do they do when they start writing a book? First, they create a plan, an outline of the story. And it is just the same with a food photo. It should be meaningful and well thought out.
I like to write down on a piece of paper exactly what story I want to tell in my photos and what I need to do to achieve that. Having a vision before setting up your lights and props is super important. It will save you time and energy trying to figure out all the necessary elements you need and how to bring them all together.
In the case study below, you will get an insight into my thought process when creating a photo and how I create a narrative that speaks not only to me but also to my audience.
Now, let me take you through the steps I normally take to craft a food story in my work.
Case Study
Let’s dive into a practical example to understand better how a food story can be added to a photo. To bring my story to life, I like to take the following steps:
1. Putting the story into words
For this example, I wanted to create a photo of a late summer breakfast. I had some late summer produce and some croissants, and they reminded me of not only the late summer but also the Mediterranean. So, I gave the story a time and a place.
2. Determine the feelings and emotions
The idea behind the narrative sets the stage for a mood that’s slightly moody and dark yet still carries hints of the fading summer light. Determining the feelings and emotions gives us a clear indication of what type of light we need to use to match the story.
3. Finding colors that match the story
Colors are one of the most powerful elements of food photography. When trying to tell a story, it is also crucial to know what specific colors will be perceived and how to use them to our advantage.
Inspiration for colors can be various, but since this photo was closely related to a specific season, which is late summer, I tried to use colors that would match that story. Late summer is when the colors are just starting to become more muted, warmer even.
So, for this scene, I did not want to pick specific color palette beforehand since those were determined mainly by the produce and foods I used. I did, however, want to make the colors more muted. And you will see, later in this article, how I achieved that.
When you don’t have a clear color palette in mind, you can use online tools like Asana Color Palette Generator or Adobe Color Wheel to help you find a combination that would match your food narrative. Learning about the meaning of color and different types of color palettes is something every artist needs to do.
Checking how the colors will look like together with online tools
4. Choosing a backdrop
When choosing a backdrop that helps to tell your food story, you can think about:
Color
Texture
Brightness
Style
And even shape
Looking into my story, I knew I wanted something that could easily be transported to an old villa in the Italian countryside. And that made me think of wood and stone. These were the two materials that reminded me of this place.
I wanted to create a homey, warm feel that would evoke emotions of a season slipping through our fingers.
So, the contrast between the two backdrops also gives the sense of warm meeting cold. Just like the warm summer is slowly transforming into the cooler autumn.
Going through backdrops to select the one that fits the storyFinal backdrop selection
I chose the two Duo Boards, not only because I loved their look but also because adding a backdrop on the floor requires a larger backdrop. When you photograph an element that is further away from the camera, it will take up less space in the frame. This is why a larger backdrop is perfect for situations like these. The Duo Boards are larger than most other backdrops I own, so they were perfect for the job.
5. Adding props that make sense
Like backdrops, all props you use in the frame need to be consistent with the story. If you place an element that clashes with the rest, it will take all the attention from the main subject. So you want to avoid that.
Think about the:
Color
Texture
Shapes
Sizes
Styles of the props when setting up the scene.
Placing the prop selection on the backdrop to see if they match the color and style of the backdrop.The final prop selection before the photoshoot. I added another glass plate during the styling.
6. Shape the light to add the mood
One of the, if not the most essential part of effectively telling a story is lighting. To create a desired mood, we can use specific types of light and modifiers. This further enhances the emotional impact of the photo. Understanding the nuances of light and shadow is essential to communicate your intended story.
So, the next time you’re on the set, remember that your choice of light isn’t just an illumination—it’s a way to express a story.
In my case, I wanted to re-create a late summer light. For me, the late summer light is darker than mid-summer light and even slightly moody. The shadows are softer but not as soft as the autumn shadows.
And since my scene was set to take place in the morning, the shadows needed to be longer.
7. Styling the food
With food styling, we want to create an experience. The viewer needs to understand how the food tastes and feels in order to feel the emotions and get a full experience. Textures and colors are their visual cues.
In my late summer breakfast photo, I wanted to show different textures, such as the juicy, slightly chewy texture of figs, the crumbly texture of the croissants, and the added sweetness with the sugar dusting.
Playing with texture is the cherry on top of any storytelling.
8. Final touch – Editing
Editing is the final stage of creating a story in the photo. Having the story written down, as I mentioned in the beginning, helps immensely.
In my photo, I wanted to create muted colors, so I used editing to tone them down. However, I left the figs relatively saturated so they stand out from the rest of the frame.
Making sure the contrast and shadows were edited in a way that is also slightly muted.
And not forgetting the textures. Enhancing the detail not only in the foods on the plate but also on the backdrop was vital to make it all look realistic.
Conclusion
The main objective of the food narrative is to evoke emotions and drive you close to the food to connect with it on a personal level.
So, the next time you pick up your camera to capture something delicious, remember that the story you weave around it will be the secret ingredient to a truly captivating photograph.
https://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/Crafting_a_Food_Story_cover.jpg15001000Anja Burgarhttps://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/logo_NEWW.pngAnja Burgar2023-09-05 15:08:502023-09-11 19:46:21Crafting a Food Story (A Case Study)
As a creator, how do you handle the free work requests? Read further to see all the traps you need to avoid.
If you are an Instagram influencer, content creator, or blogger, you’ve likely encountered situations where brands offer products in exchange for posts or content creation.
The debate over whether accepting these kinds of free work opportunities is okay is fierce. And I’ll leave the final judgment to you. Nevertheless, I want to share my thoughts on what situations is accepting ‘free work’ worth it and how to handle these non-paid opportunities so you can protect your work and keep it professional.
When is working in exchange for products okay?
As I said, it’s up to you to decide if merely having the product is worth it. But in my humble opinion, there are a few situations where unpaid work is acceptable:
When the work you do fits your brand
When the collaboration will be beneficial for your social media audience, blog readers, and so on
When having images with the product will help your portfolio become better and will attract more clients in the future.
When having this product or connection with the brand will help your career in a big way (and only a big way counts).
When the product you get is of a very high value, and you would purchase this or a similar product anyway. (In my experience, this is rarely the case!)
I can’t stress this enough, but even if you work in exchange for products, you still have to put effort, time, money, and creativity into your projects, so make sure that whatever deal you make, you gain something from that!
Setting the Stage for a Successful Collaboration
It has happened to all of us – a collaboration that left one or both sides of the party unsatisfied. I like to include some strategies:
Clear communication: Be sure to communicate in the greatest detail possible about how this will work. Don’t forget to talk about how many images/videos/reels/blog posts… You will produce, how you’ll include that product, and when exactly they are going out.
Product integration: Clarify how the product will be integrated into your content, whether they will be mentioned or tagged, where, or even IF they can use the content you produced, and every little detail.
Usage Rights: From the beginning, you need to let the brand know how the content you create can be used. Will you be the one sharing it? Can they share or repost it? Where can they use it, for how long, and whether they should credit you?
Logistics: Who will take care of shipping and import taxes or any other expenses that might arise?
To ensure the communication is clear and easy from the beginning, I created a pdf with clearly written how I work, what kinds of content I can produce in exchange for products, and how long after receiving the product I can post the content. Will you mention or tag them in the post and other vital information? So they see that I’m serious and my work provides value! I have this PDF ready online and send a link to everyone who contacts me, so I don’t need to explain all these things repeatedly.
Upselling opportunity
Remember that even if you are in a situation where a brand asks you to work for a product, you have the chance to pitch paid work.
You can:
Say no to unpaid work and introduce your paid packages from the get-go.
Provide a part of the job for free and charge a fee for the rest. Let them know what you can do for free or how they can use the photos for free, and share your rates if they want extra work or an extra usage license from you.
Protect Your Free Work
We already talked that you should discuss the usage and every other important detail about the collaboration, but you should also write it.
A contract is necessary for every work you do, no matter if it is paid or not. You want to protect your work from being used in ways you do not agree with and get fair compensation for different uses.
Free work conclusions
Collaborating for products is work like any other, so you should treat it as such. It is essential to approach any work with professionalism and a business-oriented mind.
Clear communication, brand values, and guidelines are the foundation of navigating any business successfully.
To make sure these product exchange collaborations run smoothly, I advise you to let the brand know how you work and that you are obligated to protect your work while making sure both parties will be better off.
https://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/Free-work-opportunities-How-to-handle-them-cover.jpg15001000Anja Burgarhttps://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/logo_NEWW.pngAnja Burgar2023-09-01 08:00:002023-10-06 11:21:33Free Work Opportunities: How to Handle Them
Cocktail photography is a beautiful and exciting genre of photography that showcases the creativity and elegance of mixology. In this post, I will share how I shot a refreshing Summer cocktail.
*This post is sponsored. All opinions are my own.*
Summer is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a refreshing summer cocktail? As a photographer and stylist, I love creating beautiful images that capture the feel of the season.
In this blog post, I’ll take you through my process of styling a summer cocktail photoshoot, from choosing the right style and props to editing the final image.
Let’s start!
Step 1: Deciding on a Style & Mood
Choosing the style and mood for a photoshoot is one of the most important steps. It sets the tone for the entire shoot and guides all the decisions you make. For this summer cocktail shoot, I wanted to create a relaxed and inviting Mediterranean vibe. I envisioned a scene that would transport viewers to a hot, sunny location right next to the sea.
To achieve this mood, I started by creating a mood board. I gathered a few images of Mediterranean architecture, greenery, textiles and food (I intentionally did not want to look at drinks!).
This allowed me to see how different elements worked together and helped refine my vision for the shoot. Once I had a clear style in mind, I could start working on the details.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Props
Props are essential to creating a compelling image. They help to convey the mood and style of the shoot and provide visual interest for the viewer.
I knew I needed something that would match my moodboard. So I brought in wooden and stone boards and beige textured textiles. I even found an old tree root hanging out in the garden. By choosing props that fit the style I wanted to recreate, I was able to create a cohesive image that tells a story.
My first selection of backdropsBringing in a few more interesting pieces
Step 3: Choosing the Right Backdrop
The backdrop is an important element in any photoshoot, as it provides the foundation for the image.
For this summer cocktail shoot, I wanted to keep the focus on the cocktail and props, so I chose two cool neutral backdrops – Terrazzo and Iced Concrete from V-Flat.
I love these backdrops because I don’t have to worry about how to keep the standing backdrop stay in place. They come with handy Duo Legs that hold the vertical backdrop still, even if your scene is nowhere near a wall.
Plus, they can be easily cleaned and wiped down. I have not yet encountered any staining on these.
Since I was going for a fresh summer mood, I needed to create a clean and minimalistic feel using simple yet textured backdrops. This allowed the focus to remain on the cocktail and props while still providing something interesting to look at.
Step 4: Creating Summer Light
Lighting is one of the most important aspects of photography. I generally really love using hard light for my Summer cocktail photography.
And since here I wanted to create a bright, sunny feel, too, I used a flash with only a small beauty dish and no diffuser to create deep shadows and contrast. I also used a white foam board on the other side to reflect light and fill in those shadows quite a bit.
And since summer is all about lush greenery, I used some tree branches with leaves and placed it in front of the light to get them to cast a shadow on my scene. This makes it feel like you’re outdoors.
Creating this specific lighting helped to create a natural, summery feel and added depth and dimension to the image.
Step 5: Taking Some Test Shot
Taking test shots is an important part of any photoshoot. It allows you to see how the lighting, composition and even the props and backdrops are working together and make any adjustments before you start building your scene.
For this summer cocktail shoot, I took a few test shots to ensure that:
the lighting was creating the mood I wanted
the props work with the light and the feel
the composition is well-balanced and dynamic
Step 6: Finishing the Styling and Taking the Final Photo
Once I had the lighting and composition set up, it was time to finish styling the cocktail. This included adding the final touches to the props, adjusting the garnish, and making sure everything was in its right place.
The goal was to create an inviting and visually appealing image that captured the essence of a refreshing summer cocktail.
I took my time with this step, carefully adjusting and fine-tuning the details inside the glasses until everything was just right. I added ice to the glass, adjusted the angle of the garnish, and made sure the background was clean and unobstructed, before pouring in the sparkling water. The key was to pay attention to the small details that could make a big difference in the final image.
I actually took two final photos – one with less filled glasses and one going all-in! I like both of them, but I’ll let you decide which one you prefer.
*Note: These are the photos after editing. To see the difference between the raw photo and the edited one, keep reading.
Step 7: Editing – Making Sure the Editing Complements the Story
Editing is the final (AND CRUCIAL!) step in creating a great image. It allows you to refine the mood and style of the shot and ensure that it tells the story you want it to. For this summer cocktail shoot, I wanted to enhance the natural summer feel of the image but have it look refreshing, so I kept the edit relatively neutral and not overly warm. I used my Summer Sun preset and tweaked it a tiny bit to perfectly match the look I was going for.
What is more I made sure that the shadows are not too dark to distract from the drinks.
And I made sure that the white Terrazzo V-flat backdrop is not overexposed and shows its lovely texture.
Conclusion
Summer cocktail photography involves careful planning and attention to detail. By choosing the right style and props, creating the perfect lighting, and editing to enhance the mood, you can create an image that perfectly captures the true feel of the season.
https://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/how_i_shot_this_summer_cocktail_photography_cover.jpg1102735Anja Burgarhttps://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/logo_NEWW.pngAnja Burgar2023-05-25 21:16:542023-05-26 06:27:47How I Shot This {Cocktail Photography}
Learn how to take stunning drink photos with these 8 tips & tricks! From the rule of odds to backlighting and adding human elements, these simple techniques will help you create beautiful and memorable photos. Get ready to capture your next amazing drink photo!
Photographing drinks can be a challenging task, but it’s also a lot of fun. Drinks can be very colorful and come in all sorts of unique glasses and vessels, making them a unique and exciting subject for photography. If you’re a food photographer looking to improve your drink photography skills, you’re in the right place!
In this article, I’ll share some tips and tricks that will help you take stunning drink photos.
1. Use the Rule of Odds
The rule of odds is a simple rule that states that objects arranged in odd numbers are more visually appealing than those arranged in even numbers. When photographing drinks, try placing them on the set in groups of three or five (usually not more for drinks, but you can test that, too!) to make them more visually appealing. This will also help create depth and texture in your photos, especially when you play with placing them at different distances from the camera.
To apply this rule to drink photography, consider arranging the drinks and the glasses in groups of three or five, creating triangles or diagonal lines in the composition. Doing so will make your photos more visually dynamic and engaging, especially when combined with different shapes and sizes of glasses or other props in the scene. You can also use this rule to create patterns or repetitions with the drinks and the glasses, adding a sense of rhythm and harmony to your photos.
2. Be Mindful of the Colors
Drinks come in a wide variety of colors, and you want to make sure that you’re capturing the true essence of the drink in your photos. Pay attention to the colors of the drink and the background. If the drink is dark, consider using a lighter background to make it pop. Conversely, if the drink is light, consider using a darker background.
When choosing the background for your drink photos, consider the color temperature and the contrast with the drink. For example, if you’re photographing a red cocktail, consider using a green or blue background to create a complementary contrast. On the other hand, if you’re photographing a white or clear drink, consider using a black or dark background to create a dramatic contrast. That’s not a rule by any means, but if your photo doesn’t work, it’s worth noting if there’s a problem with the color or brightness contrast. And here is where you can apply these tips.
You can also use props or decorations that match (or contrast) the colors of the drink, such as fruits, herbs, or flowers, to add texture and depth to your photos.
3. Backlight Your Photo
Backlighting is a great way to add depth and drama to your drink photos. Positioning your light source behind your drink can create a beautiful halo effect to make your drink photos stand out.
To backlight your drink photos, place your drink in front of a window or a light source and position your camera so that the drink is between the light source and the camera. This will create a natural backlight that will highlight the colors and shape of the drink, creating a beautiful ethereal effect. You can also use a reflector or a white card to bounce the light back onto the glass and fill in the shadows, creating a more balanced exposure.
4. Create a Frosted Effect
To create a frosted effect on your drink, simply spray a light mist of water on the outside of the glass before taking your photo. This will give your drink a beautiful, frosty appearance, making it look even more refreshing.
To create the frosted effect, use a spray bottle with water or a mix of water and glycerin, and spray a fine mist onto the outside of the glass. Be careful not to spray too much of the mixture since this can make the drink look messy. You can also use a paper towel or a Q-tip to wipe off any excess water or droplets from the glass. This technique works particularly well with cold or frozen drinks, such as iced tea, smoothies, or cocktails.
You can read more about creating a frosted effect here.
5. Use Artificial Ice
Using real ice in your drink can be tricky because it can melt quickly under the heat of the lights, especially when you’re working on cocktails in the summer. Which will give you a very short window for photographing the drink. Artificial ice, on the other hand, provides a more consistent and longer-lasting effect, making it perfect for drink photography.
Artificial ice comes in various forms, such as chunks or shards. You can get them in different materials, some of which will look more realistic than others. Before you purchase any artificial ice, I highly encourage you to read reviews!
6. Tell a Story
Every drink has a story, and your job as a photographer is to capture that story in your photos. Think about the context and the mood of the drink, and try to convey it through your composition, lighting, and props. Is it meant to be enjoyed on a hot summer day or to warm you up on a cold winter night? Is it a casual drink to share with friends or a special cocktail to celebrate a milestone?
To tell a story with your drink photos, consider the setting, the accessories, and the ambiance of your scene. For example, you can use a wooden table or a beach towel as a background for a casual vibe or a marble countertop or a velvet tablecloth for a more elegant look.
7. Add Human Element
Adding a human element to your drink photos can make them more relatable, engaging, and memorable. People love to see other people enjoying drinks, especially when they can imagine themselves in that situation. By including a hand in your photo, you can create a sense of connection between the viewer and the drink and make the image more inviting and personal.
As a one-man band, I often photograph myself holding the drink. If you do the same, make sure to set your camera on a timer and focus it on the spot where you’re going to hold the drink.
8. Capture Action
I love action! It always adds a fun element to any photo. Capturing the action of the drink, such as pouring, shaking, stirring, or splashing, can add a sense of movement and excitement to your photos and make them more exciting and lively
To capture the action of the drink, use a fast shutter speed and a burst mode to freeze the moment and capture multiple shots in a row.
I hope these tips and tricks will help you take stunning drink photos that will wow your audience and enhance your portfolio. So remember to practice, experiment, have fun with your photography, and share your best shots on social media and your website (cuz you never know who’s watching). Cheers to your success!
https://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/How_to_take_stunning_drink_photos_cover.jpg1102735Anja Burgarhttps://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/logo_NEWW.pngAnja Burgar2023-05-11 13:28:452023-05-15 09:02:14How to Take Stunning Drink Photos
Take a look at how I styled a cup of hot cocoa. From how I created the composition to how I faked the cream!
Welcome to this tutorial on I how I styled this photo of hot cocoa.
Even though the composition seems relatively simple, there were things to consider to make it appear light and bright. So keep on reading to find more.
Or, if you prefer to watch, you can watch the video below.
The idea was that I needed some negative space. However, I also wanted to include some visually interesting elements to fill out the space.
I wanted the photo to be flowy and dynamic without being overly full and crammed with props.
How I Styled This
I placed the tiled backdrop in the back at an angle to add some dynamics to the photo. (left photo below)
Then I started playing with how they are positioned in relation to each other. (right photo below)
I preferred the focus to be on the mug, and that’s why I ended up placing the vase more to the side. I just didn’t want it to overshadow this beautiful mug, which would eventually hold cocoa.
By changing the placement of the camera bit I was able to get more space at the top. This is a technique I love to use for brighter, whiter photos to give them that extra breathing space.
Then I started placing different elements around, starting with a little bit of color, which kind of gave me a clue of what the colors were gonna be like. To get that really nice cold and warm contrast, I went with the orange in contrast with the blueish whites. I love blues with brown foods because they bring the warmth out of the browns.
While the orange color from the dried oranges adds that extra color punch, a color emphasis.
The placement of the chocolate bar on the right balances out the darker bottom of the vase on the left.
Then I started playing with a spoon to make it appear more lived in, so I went with a golden one for an extra pop of color.
I tested different placements and ended up placing it on the other side so it caught just the right light. You can see how much more colorful it is when the light catches it. With the way I positioned it, I was able to get a similar hue to the oranges. I placed the spoon diagonally to add some dynamics to the frame.
Then I filled the vase to make the scene more realistic. I used the same colors, the brownish-orange, so it doesn’t distract and is just a nice complement, and added texture to the photo. (left photo below)
And then I decided the angle was too low, not giving enough space to showcase the cocoa (right photo below). If we compare the two angles (left and right photos below), you can see how we can see more of the inside of the mug, which you’ll see later works better.
Then I made the bottom dried orange more visible to really emphasize the orange color.
And you can see in the back how I also then moved the chocolate further out (change from the photo bottom left to bottom right). It’s a very dark element, so hiding it a bit makes the entire frame more balanced.
And I added some crystal sugar or candy sugar (photo bottom right), which not only adds to the texture but also gives a cozy wintery vibe.
I also added some crystal sugar in the back to balance things out. And played around with the positioning a bit so they are not too distracting (photos bottom left & right).
And then I added the cream. For this photo, I tested a styling trick, which I explained at the end of this article, so keep on reading!
As a finishing point, I wanted to add a little bit of texture on top, so I made some chocolate shavings. And sprinkled them over, and I also added a bit in the bottom corner.
And then the final touch, the dried orange slice in the cream. It’s that last interesting detail in a drink.
After the finishing touch – photo stacking. This is a technique we’ll discuss another time; I was able to get the entire drink pretty much in focus, with the background nicely blurred for a soft effect. So this is the final photo:
Styling trick – Using Shaving Cream
Instead of using whipping cream, I used shaving cream.
The reason I liked working with it is that it holds for much longer, and it is easier to shape and create nice swirls. If you want to take a look at exactly how I worked with it, check the video at the top of this article at 5:55.
Just be sure not to drink the cocoa afterward!
Hope you enjoyed this mini-tutorial about how I styled this lovely (but unedible) cup of cocoa.
https://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/how_i_styled_this_hot_cocoa_cover.jpg15001000Anja Burgarhttps://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/logo_NEWW.pngAnja Burgar2023-03-30 11:07:042023-04-03 09:48:37How I styled this – Hot Cocoa
Elevate your food photography with negative space. Learn how to create balance, depth & impact. Techniques & examples included!
*This post is sponsored. All opinions are my own.*
Negative space can sound pretty pessimistic, right? Fear not. Using negative space in your work can be very positive. See, what I did just there 🙂
In order to achieve balance in your photos, you must know how to include and place negative space inside a frame. Because, like all good things, it can help a composition, but it can also ruin it.
I’ve partnered with V-Flat World to use their beautiful food photography backdrops called duo boards in some photos showcasing how I use negative space in my work. If you have never tried these, they come with a very handy pair of duo legs that you can use to hold up the board in the back. Such a nice solution!
That’s the empty space around your subject, while positive space is the space filled with elements. In short, negative space is the boring part of the photo where nothing really happens. I say boring, but it’s far from boring in reality.
Your job as a food photographer is to balance negative and positive space to create enticing compositions.
We also know the term passive space in art, and that’s the space where you might have some things, but they are very neutral and almost blend with the background, so they don’t carry as much visual weight, and just like the negative space create a space for the eyes to rest.
Why is negative space important in a photo?
It adds a sense of size and scale to an image, a sense of space and gives your subject room to breathe. It will lead the viewer to the main subject.
It creates areas in the photo that recede (that’s the negative space) and areas that advance (that’s the positive space). So what this creates is dimension and layers in your photos.
Too much negative space can overwhelm and distract from the subject just as much as something very bold and bright could. On the other hand, if there’s not enough empty space, the frame might be too saturated, and adding negative space would make it look more balanced.
When done correctly, a significant amount of negative space can actually be great and make the subject even more noticeable. This way, it can give a photo a dramatic feel and look. Heck, it can almost make it look quiet and peaceful.
Simple ways to use negative space in food photography
FRAMING
When it comes to negative space, it can act as a frame for your subject, and using it like that will make your subject stand out.
You can approach that by placing your subject centrally and leaving room around it to make it pop and create a centerpiece for your photo. But be careful not to make it look disconnected from the rest of the image.
In the photo below, I placed my subject in the middle of the image to create a frame with negative space. But you can notice that I added some smaller elements around to make the connection with the frame edges.
VISUAL BALANCE
Knowing that negative space holds a massive weight in a photo is essential. Much more than you might think.
This is especially important when you try to troubleshoot a photo where your subject needs to stand out. It can be a balance problem; one way to balance an image like that is by adding some empty space.
MOVEMENT
Negative space can be used to create movement in an image by leading the viewer’s eye through the composition. It can add dynamic visual interest to an image.
To do that we can use the empty space around the subject to create a sense of direction and movement that leads the viewer’s eye through the composition.
One way to create movement with empty space is to use diagonal lines or shapes. In order to know how to use this technique, you need to look at the negative space as positive, as if it were filled with elements. This way, you’ll notice the shapes it creates.
CREATING MOOD
Negative space can be used to create a sense of calm or tranquility in a photo, by leaving plenty of empty space around the subject. On the other hand, it can also be used to create a sense of tension or drama by filling the frame with elements and leaving very little empty space.
MINIMAL VS. BUSY SCENES
You might be thinking: Negative space only works in minimal scenes, with only a main subject and all that negative space. But that’s definitely not the case.
Let’s look at these two photos and see where I’ve placed the subjects in relation to negative space.
In the left photo – a minimal scene – deciding where to place negative space is just a matter of left, right, up, and down. Mostly.
When it comes to busier scenes, or whenever you add additional elements to the frame, you must also look at the space between the elements and how negative space creates a connection or separation between them. Finding the right balance is achieved by proper composition, which I teach in detail in Food To Frame.
When we create images with lots of elements, we can easily create a very distracting scene, and it’s hard to know where the main subject is. It can make our eyes wander and never stop on a specific element in the frame. This is when we went too far and needed to remove some elements and introduce some empty space.
TEXT OVERLAYS
Leaving empty space is super important whenever text needs to be added on top, for example, magazines, packaging, brochures, and such.
I prepared a magazine cover mockup to give you an idea of how creating photos with the intention of placing text over can be different. For example, look at the image without text and the photo with text. The one without text might feel slightly unbalanced, but placing text over fixes that. Whereas if the picture was crowded, it would make the text hard to fit.
CONCLUSION
Negative space is here to add some lightness to the frame. It makes the photo breathe. However, adding negative space is not a rule, and many beautiful images have almost no empty space. It all comes down to what feeling you’d like to portray.
https://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/How_to_use_negative_space_infood_photography-1a.jpg1102735Anja Burgarhttps://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/logo_NEWW.pngAnja Burgar2023-02-03 08:11:002023-02-03 08:12:48How To Use Negative Space in Food Photography
Today I’m sharing 7 ways you can make money as a food photographer. So without further ado, here are the things you can do to make your money this year!
Photography Gigs
As a food photographer, one of the main ways to earn money is through brand photoshoots. This includes taking photos of products for packaging, web usage, social media, and different types of prints. Brands in the food industry often need visually appealing images of their products to use in marketing.
Diversifying your skills in this area is super important. You could, for example, learn how to shoot for restaurants and bars in addition to food brands and have that extra skill up your sleeve.
This allows you to have more options and be prepared for any opportunities that may arise. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant photography industry took a hit, so having the ability to diversify your skills can help to keep your business afloat.
Styling Gigs
Chances are that since you photograph food, you either do your own food styling or did at some point. Which means you could have the skills to take on styling gigs.
Food styling is used in many projects, from food advertising campaigns and cookbooks to TV shows and social media content.
Food styling often requires some tricks to make food look like the client wants it, so I recommend learning a bit about the tricks of the trade before delving into serious high-volume styling jobs.
Content Creation
In addition to brand photoshoots, another way to earn money as a food photographer is through content creation. This includes creating visually appealing content for food brands to use on social media, websites, and other platforms. Video content is becoming increasingly popular, so having the skills to create food-related videos can open up new opportunities and streams of income.
Licencing & Stock Photos
Selling your food photography as stock images is another way to earn money. While the stock photo market can be competitive, it can be a nice source of extra income. You can upload your existing images to stock photography websites and earn money from people using them. However, it’s important to research which types of photos are in high demand and to carefully read the terms and conditions of each website before uploading your images.
Note: If you want to earn real money with stock photography, you will most likely need to solely dedicate all your time to this type of work.
Selling your photos on stock websites is one form of licensing. However, you may already get inquiries from brands to use your images. In that case, you can license them directly and get paid better than through stock agencies.
Prints
Another option is selling prints of your photos. While this does require additional work and cost for printing and shipping, platforms like Pixieset can help make this process easier. Many people have shown interest in buying prints of my photographs, so this can be a viable way to earn extra income.
Affiliates and Ads
Another way to earn passive income is through affiliates and ads. This can include placing targeted ads on your website or blog or joining affiliate programs with brands you love and would be proud to recommend to your audience. Honesty is key here!
You can see how I use affiliate links in this article here.
Sponsored Posts
Another way to make money as a food photographer is to work on sponsored posts with brands your online audience would be interested in. This can include reaching out to brands and working on sponsored posts on your channels, such as your blog, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, email, and TikTok.
Education Lastly, another way to earn money is through education. Suppose you have a talent or knowledge that you can share with others. In that case, the online education industry can be a great opportunity. This can include creating courses, workshops, mentoring, ebooks, and memberships.
HOW TO KNOW WHAT TO DO
When figuring out how you will earn money this year, I recommend focusing on your main type of work. For me, currently, that’s brands, and these are my primary focus. Everything else is extra, and I don’t want it to take too much time. So if the time required doesn’t justify the income, it’s not worth it.
Once you have identified your main type of work, you can go backward. Think of brands you want to work with and then reverse-engineer your way to your daily schedule. What tasks do you need to do quarterly, monthly, and daily to get to the type of job you want to work on?
Remember, the key is to diversify and always be open to new possibilities. In this way, you will be prepared to face any challenge that comes your way!
https://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/7_ways_to_make_money_as_a_food_photographer.jpg15001000Anja Burgarhttps://www.useyournoodles.eu/wp-content/uploads/logo_NEWW.pngAnja Burgar2023-01-27 13:00:002023-09-08 10:51:157 ways to make money as a food photographer
