Food photography is becoming more and more prominent with the increase in the number of users on social media and the developments in technology.
Gone are the days when social media was only about connecting with friends and family around the world. The term ‘social media influencer’ was not even known in those days. Now, social media is boosting with businesses taking over these platforms. From online shopping to blogs, vlogs and social media influencing, it has become more of a marketing and branding strategy rather than just connecting.
The importance of photography has increased over the years. Pictures, in itself, conveys a story and easily attracts a large number of audience. Research proves that social media accounts with attractive pictures are likely to get 10 times more impressions and engagements. Visually appealing photographs help to create buzz and drive sales.
When we talk about food photography, whatever looks good to the eye, will be desired by the stomach. In today’s times, with smartphones, everybody becomes a photographer. We all snap what’s on our plate for the gram before we even sit to eat. However, there is a difference between an amateur photographer using a smartphone clicking pictures in a poorly lit room and a professional photographer who uses the correct angle, lighting and aesthetics to click an artistic picture.
Here are some tips and tricks you should keep in mind to make the dish look even more appealing and desirable!
#1. Aesthetics
A dish alone may not leave a lasting impression on the viewers. It is important to give a theme within the picture. For example, aesthetics like miniature-sized jam bottles, a basket of eggs, a loaf of bread can be placed alongside a breakfast meal to make it look like it is telling a story.
Or if the dish is fancy, using wealthy-looking cutlery, scented candles, matching napkins and fancy glasses would make the dish look rich and luxurious.
Make sure the dish is plated on clean, pleasing crockery. Plating can be done in a way to add contrast and enhance the food.
#2. Lighting
Clicking a picture in a well-lit room makes an average looking dish even more beautiful. Try using natural light instead of flash in the device. Using flash destroys the aesthetics you are trying to create and makes the dish look unnatural. The dish can be placed near a window or below soft golden light to enhance the colour of the food. Be careful about the colour tones of the dish before you use artificial lighting. The colour of the dish must not be compromised.
#3. Angle
Getting the perfect shot of the dish is very necessary. The focus angle should be to capture only the dish into the frame even though the props are around it. It is advisable to click the picture from the top angle (90 degrees) if the details of the dish are above. For example, a pizza or a soup served in a bowl.
A 45-degree angle must be used when the dish has a side profile. For example, a double-decker burger or a cake with layers.
Use the angle of 25 degrees when the details are both on the top as well as on the side. In this type of shot, you can focus on either side. Try holding the dish in your hands and clicking a picture using this angle.
Use a tripod whenever possible for clicking pictures.
#4. Post-editing
Finally, experiment with contrasts, filters and tone to create aesthetics. Never compromise with the actual look of the dish. Filters can be used to enhance the overall look of the photograph and matching it with the rest of the feed. While posting it on social media, you can also add sound effects or music along with the picture. Along with this, try creating a brand image on social media. Keep your feed consistent using the same aesthetics, colour tone or same positioning of the picture to make your feed look organised and distinct from your competitors.
The Takeaway
These tips and tricks when used with a little training, can improve your photography skills.
Food photography can help you build a strong brand image and can be used as an effective marketing strategy. It can make your
dishes look appealing and your content even more inviting and attractive.
Author bio
Anushka Bhargava (Gravatar ID: anushkabhargava19@gmail.com)
Anushka is a passionate writer and a poet pursuing a degree in media and communications. She regularly contributes to F and B Recipes on Intuitive Energy Healing.
