Photography is not a cheap hobby. From camera equipment to backgrounds, and yes, even props. This guide will cover all the food photography props you need plus thrifty ways to build your collection!
Take a look at things to consider before buying a bunch of props.
Take your food photography game to the next level with this super easy DIY tutorial. Even if you think you don’t have a creative bone in your body, you can make these. Best of all, they can be made in just under $25 each!
Ever lust over some photos on Instagram and think “man, I wish I could take photos like that?”
We’ve all been there. Heck, I’m still there.
I’m always looking for ways to improve my food photography skills. From styling and composition to equipment, my eagerness to learn is never complete!
One topic I’ve recently become obsessed with is new backgrounds.
And after drooling over Erickson boards and not wanting to fork up the $$$, I decided to Google some tutorials and wow, I was impressed and inspired. Then a friend of mine did a demo on how she made hers and that really encouraged me to take the plunge.
I’m artsy. I can do this.
So to Home Depot, we go!
Rule of thirds – a very elementary photography composition concept. Let’s talk about what it is and how this applies to food photography!
Rule of thirds is dividing a photo into 9 squares. 3 across and 3 down. With this grid, you can use it to build a compelling composition.
Rule of thirds helps create balance and intentionally draw the viewer’s eye to certain points of a photo.
Note: If you’ve never heard of this concept let alone applied it, chances are you’re already using it! This is most natural to the human eye which is why it’s such a desirable photography technique!
Can’t envision 9 squares when taking a photo? Cameras have a setting so you can apply this grid on your viewfinder.
How to apply grid settings on your DSLR camera
Each camera is slightly different (real convenient, right?) but it’s in the menu settings on your camera. A quick Google research of your camera make and model + “grid settings” or “guidelines” should land you to the right place!
I’m sure you’ve heard it before, “always shoot in RAW” but why? This article is here to break down the reasonings why RAW files are so much more special than JPG formats.
When you take a picture with your camera, there’s some processing and compression that goes on in the background. RAW files contain minimal processing and as a result, there’s more “raw” information stored in the file.
On the contrast, a JPG has more processing and some information or quality is lost.
RAW files = higher quality and more information.
Getting equipment for food photography can be overwhelming, to say the least. Not to mention how expensive everything can get! Here I list my 2 favorite lenses for capturing stellar food photos!
When I think of photography, I like to think of it as part science, part art. Yes, there is a science to operating a camera, but the results can be completely subjective. Therefore; these lenses are MY FAVORITE which may not be the same case for other photographers.
It’s important to note that you can rent camera equipment before purchasing which may be a good option since lenses can be expensive.
Now before I get into the lens, I want to take a brief moment to go over some important factors to consider when thinking about purchasing a lens.
Whether you have an Android or iPhone, taking food photos and editing them through your smartphone has never been more of a breeze! Edit photos to look professional with these apps for food photography.
So let me guess. You’re here because you love to cook and now you want your photos to be stunning.
Food photography equipment is slightly different than portrait or landscape photography because the subjects are all so different. Whether you’re a professional or a food photography newbie, this list is a great start for diving into taking delicious food photos!
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