Food Photography

There are two distinct areas in food photography, the first is for the promotion of a particular food product, for example, please see my shots for Costa Coffee. The end result is used in advertising, advertorials, food packaging, point of sale and PR.

The second area includes recipe books and magazines, this area is more relaxed as the photography is allowing the food to speak for itself, hence the image is able to lead the content.

Lighting plays a key part for food photography as this provides the atmosphere. I will use either flash, tungsten or daylight, depending on the brief.

Both styles of photography need an experienced team. This includes the Stylist, who's key responsibility is to source the right props and set the scene. The Food Stylist writes the recipes prepares and styles the food for the shoot. This includes the understanding of both the chemistry and physics of food for example, how to persuade a marshmallow to float on top of a frothy coffee without giving them arm bands!

I have enjoyed this area of photography for many years. The set up for each shot is totally different as each food product has its own texture and mood.