Have you ever wondered how you can best capture the essence and deliciousness of your food, using photography? Follow our quality tips & tricks to learn how you can entice others through the beauty of food photography!
We all know that poor food photos are a turn-off... As something that is unappealing to the human eye isn’t going to entice us to eat it. Trying to capture food when you are dealing with dripping sauces and melting ingredients can be hard, trust us.. We know! However, with these recommendations, you are guaranteed to capture images that will captivate your viewers.
Food photography is a learning journey & we are here to ride the wave with you! From tips and tricks, to the best camera suggestions, we have the knowledge and expertise to help you up your food photography skills.
Tips & Tricks to Take Your Food Photography to the Next Level
Use Natural & Artificial Light
Lighting is one of the most important factors in food photography.. After all, it can change the colour scheme and the mood of your image.
Although there are numerous ways of achieving optimal lighting when shooting food, the simplest is natural light. We rely on natural light to create beautiful image quality, making the food more appealing.
However, artificial light is produced by using gear such as speed lights or strobes. This method of lighting is best on gloomy days where you lack natural light, or in dark restaurants. Majority of artificial lighting is created to mimic natural lighting, therefore they intend similar purposes however artificial lighting is often used when natural light can not be accessed.
Poor lighting can have a dramatic effect on the look and feel of your images, which ultimately has a negative impact on the overall outcome. For more tips on creating the best lighting, check out Create your light: Food photography at home.
Consider Props, Styling & Composition
Props, styling & composition combined together help to capture your food in the best way possible! When selecting props, it is important to consider what atmosphere and mood you are intending to achieve.
Finding the Perfect Angle
When photographing food, knowing how to select the right angle contributes to an overall more enticing image. Choosing the right angle is subjective, as different foods require unique angles, while it is important to consider your selected props and photo composition. Try testing out these angles to find what works best for your food:
- The flat lay
- The straight on angle
- The 30 degree angle
The best angle will ultimately depend on how you have styled the shot and the unique factors involved. Try playing around with different angles to find what works best for each image.
Select Your Desired Settings
In order to create the best outcomes when shooting food, it is important to adjust your camera settings appropriately. When taking food photography, you should always aim for an ISO of no greater than 400 as this will impact on the light exposure. Flash is generally never used when shooting food as it creates glare and gives off a somewhat shiny appearance. These are general rules of thumb, although each image setting is unique.
Choosing the Best Lenses For Food Photography
Although pretty much any camera will be able to produce quality food photography outcomes, matching your lens to each unique recipe can significantly improve the outcome of your image.
Experiment & Practise!
Ultimately, a quality food photograph comes from knowing your subject and how to adjust your photography accordingly. Every image is unique and there will never be a single solution for all, that’s why we suggest practising to find what works best for various foods.
Check out our Picks of the Best Cameras for Food Photography
Nikon Z6 II Mirrorless Camera
The Nikon Z6 II combines the best of both worlds for photographers who are looking to capture cinematic video and the very best of still imagery. A truly well constructed Nikon camera.
Check out our top three reasons why we think you’ll love this camera:
- A true multimedia powerhouse
Fitted with 24.5 megapixels, this device produces clear and sharp images, even under low light. The device includes in-camera vibration reduction (VR) that offers an effect equivalent to a shutter speed of up to approx 5.0 stops faster.
- Pro level 4K video to future proof your shooting
Make the most of the post shooting advantages offered in the Nikon Z6 II, particularly around colour adjustment. The in-camera picture controls allow for easy video production with minimum colour grading required.
- More control and enhanced autofocus
The 273-point hybrid AF system has been enhanced to let you focus on the intended subject more easily, even in busy scenes. Highly advanced, the device saves the last focus position when it is switched off, allowing users to take off right where they left.
Nikon Z5 Mirrorless Camera
This innovative full frame mirrorless camera is compact, yet highly advanced in its operations. This device works to support your individual creativity through detailed imagery, precision autofocus and the impressive expeed 6 image processor. The inclusion of 4K video functionality, with adjustable focusing speed and sensitivity allows for the recording of high-end footage like never before seen. The exceptional image stabilisation experienced in the Nikon Z5 accommodates for up to 5 stops of stabilisation in 5 directions.
Food Vlogging Tips & Tricks
Although having the right equipment is an integral part of food vlogging, there are a range of additional factors that come into consideration when producing quality content. Check out our top tips that will have you producing the best food vlogs in no time:
- Focus on the quality of your vlogs
- Know your audience
- Define the content you create
- PLAN!
- Get comfortable talking in front of the camera
Check out the Top Cameras For Food Vlogging
Nikon Z fc Mirrorless Camera
The latest model in the Z series lineup, the Nikon Z fc combines heritage and the iconic Nikon Z series design with the latest technology.. What more could you want!
Fitted with over 20 creative picture control effects, users have the freedom for unlimited expression in the aesthetics and mood of their imagery. The Eye-detection AF works to lock onto moving subjects, delivering high-quality outcomes that truly capture the essence of each moment. Suited to stills and video recording, this device is the perfect camera for the food vlogger.
Check out the National Product Review:
Nikon Z50
The Nikon Z50 is all about bringing users the best features, at affordable prices. Packed with technological advancements, this device offers a great shooting experience and outstanding image quality all in a portable body.
Equipped with 4K video functionality, this camera allows users to capture beautiful 16:9 4K UHD/30p video using the whole frame. The incorporation of the Eye autofocus feature and the cool LCD tilt down screen is sure to be appealing to vloggers.
Visit Camera House for help With Selecting the Best Camera For Food Photography & Vlogging!
Now that you know which cameras are the best for food photography, visit us at Camera House where we can help you pick out your new camera! Camera House has an extensive range of cameras suited to food photography, at great prices. Discover the full range of Nikon cameras and Nikon lenses to complete your food photography kit! You'll also need to check out quality tripods and camera accessories for optimal food photography.
Take advantage of Camera House’s knowledgeable staff in-store and online and ask them which Selfie Camera is right for you! Check out our shipping information online and enjoy flat-rate delivery Australia-wide, or check out our store locator to visit a Camera House store near you. Don't forget to check out our camera blog and discover more helpful tips and articles:
The Best NIKKOR Z Lenses for Nikon Mirrorless Cameras
The 5 Best Nikon Cameras for Video
The Best Nikon Cameras for Beginners, Enthusiasts & Professionals
