Can’t seem to drum up the likes on Instagram? We share five simple tips on making your food pictures drool-worthy.
#1 Light right, baby
Lighting is the most important aspect of photography. If you can help it, take your pictures in natural light during the day.
Make sure the room has enough sunlight streaming in, or place your plates and dishes on a window sill.
If you’re at a restaurant, make sure you’re seated in a well-lit area, and place your plate under bright yet warm lights.
Getting the right lighting will take you halfway to pro-level, if not all the way!
#2 Don’t get high
While shooting from a height may get everything into the frame, it will make the picture look flat and lifeless.
You want your shots looking vibrant and appealing, so click at a lower angle and remember to frame your picture well so that the focus is on the food and not the stain on the tablecloth!
#3 Up close and personal
When it comes to food photography, the closer you get, the better. Get your phone/camera as close to the dish as possible and shoot in the macro mode.
This will not only capture the details of what’s on your plate but will also make the food look even more appetizing.
Make sure you focus well and have a steady hand. Remember to tap gently in the screen as well to avoid blurred images.
#4 Ditch the flash
Using a flash is the worst thing you could do to your food. The bright glare will just make your dishes look ugly and inedible.
If you absolutely must use extra light, then try and shoot your food under softer, warmer yellow lights and stay away from harsh white light, including tube lights.
#5 Spoon to the rescue
While photographing soups and gravies that contain vegetables or wontons, avoid capturing only the liquid portion, especially when photographing directly from pots and pans.
This way you can’t really tell what is in the dish and your pictures will turn out boring and misleading.
All you need to do is place a spoon or ladle in the pot and get a few pieces of the vegetables into it.
Then push slightly to the corner and elevate at an angle. Now, you will be able to photograph the dish with all its elements and create an interesting and textured shot.
Related Article: Sweet Selfie.
