Food photography benefits from creative ideas that entice customers with the allure of the food! This guide equips you with practical techniques to photograph various food types. For a deeper understanding of each technique, follow the links in each section for a more detailed exploration. 

Food Photography Ideas

First, we will cover a wide range of the most common food categories in food photography. You can browse this list to find the specific food type you want, or read each one to learn the different techniques. 

If you want to become a food photographer, I suggest you read each section in detail. This will introduce you to several techniques that may be useful as you start your career. You will also see similarities between the different categories. These are the key points to keep in mind in every food photography photoshoot. 

Fruit and Vegetable

Let’s look at some tips for shooting fruit and vegetables. You can try to use the best quality produce you can find. Make sure it’s fresh and free of blemishes.

Lighting is key in food photography. Use backlighting or side lighting to bring out the texture of your subject. Avoid front lighting, which can create unwanted shadows. A spritz of water mixed with glycerin can make fruits and veggies look fresh and juicy. Get close with macro shots to highlight interesting textures. Also, use few props to keep the focus on your subject.

Pattern and repetition can add visual interest to your photos. Choose backdrop colors that complement your subject. A single well-chosen prop can provide context without being distracting. You can try shooting in a dark and moody style for a different look. You can use the “shoot in a box” technique with black cards to create heavy shadows. Telling a story with your photos can engage viewers and trigger their imaginations.

Fruit photography is a great way to practice your skills. If you want to learn more, our fruit photography article has plenty of tips and techniques to explore.

Cake

Natural light is the best option for cake photography, especially if you’re new to the craft. Position your cake near a window and use a diffuser or curtain to soften harsh light and avoid shadows. Experiment with side lighting, backlighting, and side backlighting to create contrast and dimension in your photos.

Keep your cake photography minimal, using only a few props to avoid detracting from the main subject. Choose props carefully, opting for small items in cohesive colors and patterns. Get creative by using props in unconventional ways, like placing cupcakes on a vintage tray or cake stand.

The best camera angle depends on the cake you’re shooting. Frosted layer cakes look best shot straight on, while overhead shots work well for storytelling. Use food styling tricks to enhance your subject, such as adding cardboard layers between cake slices or creating a styrofoam cake for decoration. Shape the light with diffusers and reflectors, and use a smaller aperture for precise focusing. With practice and these tips, you can capture stunning cake photography.

Cupcakes

Let’s now look at some great tips for shooting cupcakes! Try to tell a story with your cupcake photos by conveying a sense of atmosphere. Use props and backdrops with colors and textures that fit the occasion, like pastel for a wedding or dark shades for chocolate cupcakes. Emphasize different textures by lighting from the side, back, or side-back to create dimension and make your cupcakes glow.

Choose your camera angle and orientation wisely to highlight the best features of your cupcakes. Make your images pop with bright, complementary colors, but focus on just a couple to avoid a chaotic look. Use a pastry bag to pipe on frosting in simple or fancy swirls.

Add extra texture and interest with sprinkles or other decorations, but don’t overdo it. Use composition principles like leading lines, repetition, and the rule of odds to create harmony. Take your photos to the next level in post-processing by balancing whites, blacks, shadows and highlights, and tweaking colors.

To learn more about cupcake photography, check out this in-depth guide covering everything from styling to editing techniques.

Ice Cream

Ice cream photography can be challenging, but with the right techniques, you can capture mouthwatering photos. Start by setting up your composition and lighting in advance, using a stand-in ice cream to avoid melting. If you’re not shooting for a brand, consider creating fake ice cream using mashed potatoes, corn starch, or frosting mixed with confectioner’s sugar.

Adding human elements like hands holding the cone can make your photos more authentic and engaging. Toppings such as sprinkles, nuts, and whipped cream can add texture and visual appeal to your ice cream pictures.

Use props to tell a story and create a fitting atmosphere, but keep the overall look simple and playful. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and experiment with closeups, unexpected settings, or conceptual photography. With practice, you’ll be able to capture stunning ice cream photos. Dive deeper into the world of ice cream photography, and explore our comprehensive guide.

Chocolate

Chocolate can be tricky to photograph. To make it appealing, prepare the chocolate by removing any bloom or imperfections. Handle it with care to avoid fingerprints.

Use side lighting to bring out the chocolate’s texture. Backlighting can create a nice sheen, but use a bounce card to avoid underexposure. One light source is all you need for beautiful shadows and highlights.

Edit your chocolate images in Photoshop for a smooth, refined look. Use the spot healing brush, clone stamp, and healing brush tools to fix flaws. With a little planning and care, you can take drool-worthy chocolate photography.

Cookie

Cookies are great to photograph. Think about using color theory when choosing props. Cookies are usually warm colors like brown and yellow. Pair them with cool-colored props like blue ceramics for a nice contrast.

Choose the best angle to showcase your cookies. Flat lays work well for decorated cookies. For simple cookies, stack them and shoot from a low angle.

Get creative with styling techniques. Use a syringe to make chocolate drops around the edge of a cookie. Or dip a food ring in chocolate and place the cookie inside the circle. You can also make a swoosh with a spoon and liquid chocolate.

Cookie photography is a fun way to get creative with food photos. Use these tips to take your images to the next level.

Dessert

Capturing delicious dessert photos is all about highlighting the beauty and appeal of sweet treats. Choose relevant props and backgrounds that complement your dessert and help tell its story. Use simple tools like a fine-mesh sifter to sprinkle cocoa or powdered sugar, or a vegetable peeler to create chocolate ribbons.

Soft, natural light is best for dessert photography to keep colors vibrant. Use a diffuser or bounce light back onto your subject with a white card. And don’t forget to set white balance correctly, using a grey card if needed.

Photographing frozen desserts like ice cream can be tricky. Pre-scoop servings and keep them in the freezer until shoot time. Gently blow on edges with a straw to soften, or press the top down for a freshly-scooped look. With some preparation and creative tricks, you can capture dessert photography that looks good enough to eat!

Burger

Here are some great tips for styling and shooting delicious burger photos. You can choose fattier meat for a juicier look and add grill marks for an authentic feel. Also, melt the cheese to get an awesome gooey texture.

Use veggies like tomatoes, lettuce, and pickles to add contrast and color to your burger. Pick props and backdrops that fit the theme, like rustic cutting boards for a pub-style burger. Experiment with different angles, but usually stick to eye-level for the best view of the layers.

Get in close to highlight all the delicious details. Finally, perfect your burger photos in post-processing using Lightroom and Photoshop to clean up imperfections and adjust colors and shadows. With these tips, you’ll be taking mouth-watering burger photography in no time.

Pizza

Pizza photography can be challenging, but with the right tips, you can capture mouth-watering images. Start by choosing the right equipment, like a camera with a full-frame sensor and a 50mm or longer lens. Avoid wide-angle lenses as they can distort your pizza.

Lighting is key to well-lit pizza photos. Use directional, natural light from the side to reduce highlights on the cheese. Style your pizza with simple, relevant props and partially cook the base before adding toppings.

To achieve the perfect cheese pull, use string mozzarella and have an assistant hold the slice while you shoot. Focus stacking can help keep the entire pizza sharp. Edit your photos minimally to maintain a natural look. After some practice, you can master the art of pizza photography.

Drinks

Capturing creative reflections in drinks is a fun way to add interest to your photos. To get started, think about the story you want to tell with your reflection. Cut a shape out of thick paper to use as a template for the reflection.

Arrange your composition with the drink and props that match your story. Use a tripod to keep your camera steady and position it so you can see the surface of the liquid. Set up a soft light source above the drink to create a bright reflection.

Hold the paper template between the light and the drink to create the silhouette reflection. Adjust the sharpness by moving the template closer or further from the drink. If you want to learn more about creative reflection photography, there are many helpful resources available here.

Cocktail

Cocktail photography is all about making your drinks look realistic and appealing. Use garnishes, specialty ice cubes, and fresh ingredients to style your cocktails. You don’t always need real alcohol – water can be a great substitute for vodka in a martini shot.

Fake condensation on the glass adds a cool, authentic look. Mix a 50-50 solution of glycerin and water in a spray bottle and mist it onto the glass. This will last much longer than water alone.

Capturing the beauty of cocktails requires the right cocktail photography techniques. With some creativity and attention to detail, you can create stunning drink photos that will impress your audience.

Indian

Let’s now take a look at some techniques to approach photographing Indian cuisine. Use props like traditional plates and cutlery to create an authentic scene. Combine different textures to make the photo more appealing, such as adding crunchy toppings to creamy dishes.

Create strong contrasts by using complementary colors or presenting a colorful dish on a dark background. Use hard light to create a moody and dramatic atmosphere.

Choose the best angle for each dish to give it depth and highlight its unique features. Pay attention to timing and photograph each item when it looks its best, such as capturing the flames cooking tender meat or the steam rising from a freshly prepared curry.

Indian food photography is also a great opportunity for indian food photography storytelling. Include elements that represent the local culture and culinary habits to make your photos more authentic and engaging.

Steak

Here are some tips for taking better steak photos! Choose high-quality meat from a butcher rather than the supermarket. Keep the meat looking fresh by avoiding piling it up and letting it air out if it was packaged. Trim any ugly parts but leave some fat for texture and flavor.

Use simple, natural backgrounds like wood, butcher paper or marble that complement the red hues of the meat. Side or backlighting helps showcase the texture without making the meat look too shiny or dull. Undercook the meat slightly and brush with oil to maintain a vivid, moist appearance.

Incorporate simple props like knives, herbs, spices, oil and vegetables to enhance the composition. Capturing the preparation process with human elements can turn your photos into a compelling story. Food styling tricks like blowtorching chicken skin or painting on grill marks are fair game too. For more meat photography secrets, dive deeper with our full guide.

Steam

Adding steam to your food photography can make your images look more appealing. Side backlighting is a great way to capture steam. Position your light source between at an angle toward your camera.

Using a dark background is important when photographing steam. Steam is light in color and somewhat transparent, so it won’t show up well unless there is contrast from the backdrop. A tripod is also a must when shooting steam shots, as it frees up your hands to style your scene and quickly place the steam before it evaporates.

When shooting in natural light, use a faster shutter speed of at least 1/200th of a second to freeze the movement of the steam. If you want to photograph steam in more detail, you can learn additional techniques such as using boiling water, a clothing steamer, or even a water-soaked tampon in the microwave.

Cooking

Food action shots make cooking photography dynamic and realistic. To capture impressive shots, use a tripod to avoid camera shake and freeze the movement. Set a fast shutter speed of at least 1/125 or 1/160, and adjust your ISO and aperture accordingly.

Natural light is best for cooking photography to get realistic colors. Avoid using flashes or artificial lights that can create reflections or ruin the food’s appearance. Experiment with the motion by practicing the pouring or sprinkling techniques beforehand, and use manual focus to ensure sharp images.

Shoot in continuous mode or with a self-timer to capture the perfect moment. Choose the right angle that leaves enough space for the motion without creating large empty spaces. With these cooking photography tips, you’ll be able to create mouthwatering action shots that engage your viewers.

Food Photography Environments and Techniques

We will now look at different environments you may find yourself in when taking food photography further. These tips will cover how to act in professional settings and what you should expect when you get to each shoot. 

The techniques we touch on are great for assisting your food photography ideas. These will offer different approaches that will make you stand out from your competition. These aesthetics aren’t for every photographer, but we recommend trying them to see if they suit your photographic style. 

Restaurant

Restaurant photography can be challenging but rewarding. To pull off a successful shoot, ask the client for a shot list so you know exactly what to deliver. Visit the restaurant beforehand to check lighting and plan your setup.

Make it clear that you’re not responsible for food styling – that’s the chef’s job. But bring along a basic styling kit to tidy up plates. Also pack linens, dishes, and props to create the desired look and ambience.

Shooting tethered lets you view images on a larger screen and get client approval on the spot. Involve the chef to coordinate timing of dishes. By putting these tips into practice, you’ll capture images that satisfy everyone. Read out in-depth guide to learn more about the tricks of the trade in restaurant photography.

Commercial

When photographing food for advertising, it’s important to make the food look as appetizing as possible. Use food styling tricks like adding color to soups, painting grilled chicken for a golden skin, and using fake ice cubes that won’t melt. For tricky shots like milkshakes, you can even use instant mashed potatoes with coloring to mimic the look without the mess.

Convey the right message and tell a story with your food photos. Show the product being served or eaten to create an appealing scene. Highlight any unique features or benefits of the product, like if it’s vegan or allergy-friendly.

Get creative and use humor in your shots to grab attention. Include people to make the images more relatable and tap into emotions. Influencers can help expand your reach, but be aware you’ll have less control over the final result. Our extended article contains all you need to know about food photography techniques for advertising.

Christmas

Here are some fun Christmas picture ideas using levitating objects like cookies and sugar. One easy method is to hold and shoot each object separately, then combine them in post-processing. This works well when the objects are not too close together.

Another option is to keep everything in place with thin wires or fishing line. Suspend the objects in the air, take the shot, then remove the supports in editing. You can also add falling sugar or flour for a magical effect.

Arrange your cookies on a plate as the main focus. Glue some to supports like knitting needles or skewers to create a falling effect. Use short shutter speeds to freeze the motion of falling sugar, or longer exposures for streaky paths. Remove the visible supports later in post-processing by layering a “clean” shot. With a few simple tricks, you can capture the wonder of christmas picture idea like levitating treats!

Dark Food

Dark food photography is all about creating moody, dramatic images using minimal lighting and the chiaroscuro technique. Move further away from your light source to reduce the light hitting your subject. Use thick curtains to darken the room, allowing just enough light to illuminate the food.

Backlighting is key for enhancing texture and creating a mysterious atmosphere. Place your light source behind the subject, using diffusers and black fill cards to sculpt the light and produce shadows. Choose muted, non-reflective backgrounds like dark blues, greys, or black, and incorporate textured materials like weathered wood for a rustic feel.

Compose your shots using the Rule of Odds, placing props at intersecting points on the Rule of Thirds grid. Underexpose your photos slightly in-camera to increase contrast without blowing out highlights. Finally, bring your images to life in post-processing by focusing on color treatment and brightening the food while maintaining shadows. Dark food photography allows you to create captivating, emotive images that stand out from the crowd.

Fine Art

Fine art food photography is a creative way to capture the beauty of food. Lighting plays a key role in bringing out the colors and textures of your subject. Side lighting or backlighting are great options, while front lighting can create unwanted shadows.

Composition is also important in guiding the viewer’s eye through the frame. Simple compositions can be very powerful, so avoid having too much going on. Styling and composition go hand-in-hand, so think of ways to add interest to your dishes with garnishes or textures.

When editing your photos, you have more freedom to experiment with color treatment and toning. The HSL panel in Lightroom is a great tool for this. You can also try split toning to give your images a unique look. Fine art food photography is a fun way to practice your lighting skills and create stunning images. Click here to learn more about fine art food photography.

Tilt Shift

Tilt shift lenses are a unique tool for food photography. They allow you to control the plane of focus and create a miniature effect. With a tilt shift lens, you can keep the subject in sharp focus while blurring the background.

These lenses also let you shoot at the most flattering angle. You can include or exclude props and other elements around the subject. This is useful for product shots or magazine covers where text needs to be added.

Tilt shift lenses can be expensive, but they open up a world of possibilities. If you’re interested in learning more about tilt shift food photography, it’s worth renting one to try out. You may find it’s a valuable addition to your kit for certain types of commercial food photography jobs.

In this article, we’ll provide ten tips for taking professional food photos with a phone. We’ll discuss how to use your phone’s camera to take great photos. And we’ll provide some tips on how to edit them to wow your viewers.

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How to Shoot Food Photography With a Phone

Shooting food photography with a phone is similar to shooting with a DSLR or mirrorless camera. But there are a few differences. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about food photography with a phone.

1. Develop Your Individual Style for Consistent Results

Succeeding on social media these days means having a consistent brand. Your images don’t have to look the same. But there should be certain elements that are consistent throughout your photos.

This could be a palette made up of two or three of the same colors or similar backgrounds in all of your images. It can also mean that all of your pictures are dark and moody or, conversely, light and airy.

If you look at the most successful Instagram accounts, you will find that most of them have repetitive elements. All of the images have a specific look and style.

Take a good look at your images and figure out the consistencies you see. Through that, you’ll develop a style over time. The more specific you are in your approach, the better your feed will look. This helps draw an audience that resonates with your style.

2. Tell a Story With Your Photos to Engage Your Viewers

Close-up images and minimalist photos look great. But what about adding a narrative to your pictures?

You can give your viewer an idea of a broader story taking place beyond the confines of the frame. It could be anything from a table setting with partially cropped-out elements or someone’s hands serving food. Including people in your food photography gives context to an image and makes it relatable.

The next time you are shooting lattes in a cafe, take a picture of your friend’s hands holding the mug. Or if you’re at a restaurant, take the shot just as they are tucking into their brunch.

3. Elevate Your Food Photos in Post-Processing

It’s best not to use filters in food photography. But your pictures will likely still need some editing to look great.

The best approach is to use apps like Snapseed, VSCO, or Lightroom Mobile. Of course, there are many other great photo editing apps. But these are the three I would recommend the most.

Make sure to adjust your images for exposure, brightness, white balance, and saturation. If necessary, you can also add a bit of clarity for contrast.

If you find some filters that look good, don’t use them at full strength. Apply them and adjust the image as needed. Unfortunately, one-click edits don’t tend to work as well in food photography as in other photography genres.

4. Style Your Dishes for Delicious Results

Food styling is essential in food photography. You can have the right angle, perfect exposure, and an excellent subject. But if the dish looks sloppy, the result will be unappealing.

If you’re shooting at home, use herbs and garnishes to elevate the aesthetic of your image. You can also use other food items like chunks of bread or extra sauce. Sometimes, I even sprinkle some coarse salt or pepper onto my food to give it texture.

Whether shooting with an iPhone or a DSLR, photographers usually bring items like vintage cutlery or squares of linen to restaurant shoots. Doing so adds a bit of pizzazz to what may be otherwise dull and typical flatware.

5. Use a Color Wheel to Create Visual Harmony

Food photography is unlike other kinds of photography in that it’s best not to use filters when editing. The colors need to be natural and work together for your images to look their best.

The color wheel shows you what colors complement each other. It is your guide to harmonious compositions.

I refer to mine all the time when I’m planning my shoots. You can move the arrows and triangles around to see which tones work best together.

Combinations that work very well are blue and orange, purple and yellow, or red and green. These colors are opposite each other on the color wheel.

6. Compose Your Smartphone Food Shots Using a Grid

Composition is a crucial skill you need to learn when it comes to taking pictures.

I think of composition rules as guidelines because they don’t always work for every image. But you should still keep them in mind to get the most out of your pictures.

First, you need to understand negative and positive space in the composition. Positive space is the area occupied by your subjects. Negative space is the empty area in the image.

Negative space allows the eye to rest as it moves through the images. In contrast, filling up your frame might give the viewer a claustrophobic feeling.

The rule of thirds is arguably one of the most useful food photography tips you’ll get for composition. It’s a compositional guideline that divides an image into nine equal sections using two horizontal lines and two vertical lines. The critical elements in the scene fall along these lines or at the intersecting points.

This grid helps add harmony to your images and will aid you considerably in creating your composition. Thankfully, your smartphone already has this grid as an overlay when you turn on your camera.

All you have to do is place your focal point where the lines intersect. Your main point of interest could be anything from a garnish to a piece of meat you want to showcase.

You can even use the golden ratio if you want to take this concept even further. It’s an even more powerful compositional tool that works particularly well for smartphone food photography.

7. Use Neutral Backgrounds to Highlight the Food

In food photography, you want the backdrop to be neutral because the food is the star. Anything else in the image needs to support it, not detract from it. A background that is too colorful or textured draws the eye away from the main dish.

With smartphone food photography, it’s hard to get bokeh. If you have a more modern smartphone, you’ll likely have access to portrait mode. This will help you achieve some bokeh. If not, it’s a good idea to keep your background simple.

A bit of creativity will serve you well. You don’t always have to shoot food on the table. I sometimes put the dish on a concrete floor or neutral-colored tile with an interesting pattern.

Another thing is that a lot of food pictures on Instagram look messy. And I don’t necessarily mean the food itself, but the environment. Often, there are too many props that distract the viewer.

One of the best food photography tips I can give you is to go for a tight shot. Close-ups and macro shots of food can look great. Just be sure that you are not shooting so close that the viewer won’t be able to tell what food they are looking at.

Also, don’t overlook unintentional drips or smears on plates. They can be distracting and challenging to fix in post-production.

8. Make the Most of Your Phone’s Wide-Angle Lens

One of the biggest mistakes people make when shooting food with a smartphone is choosing the wrong angle. More basic smartphone cameras have a very wide-angle lens. This means that certain angles will cause your images to look distorted.

A 1x lens will typically look good. To get the best results, shoot overhead or straight on to your subject instead.

The reason flat lays and overhead shots have become so popular is because of the angle you shoot from. It eliminates depth and makes your photos pop. You can fit a lot more elements in the scene, and it’s relatively easy to compose.

However, this angle doesn’t work for everything. It’s terrible when taking pictures of tall foods such as burgers.

When you shoot tall food like burgers, lay your camera on the table for a straight-on shot. That way, you showcase all the ingredients in the dish. From this angle, the wide-angle lens also helps make the food look bigger than in real life.

9. Get the Perfect Exposure With Bounce Cards

iPhones can correctly expose pictures when shooting in ideal conditions. But you don’t always get the best lighting in food photography.

Smartphone food photography requires constant problem-solving. But a bit of creativity combined with what’s already around you can go a long way!

You can boost the brightness of your scene by using a piece of white foam core as a bounce card. As the name suggests, a bounce card reflects some of the light from the main light source onto the set.

You can also invest in a reflector kit and bring it to a restaurant to diffuse the light. Or you can open reflectors to bounce more light onto the dishes.

Your smartphone also has a feature called “exposure lock.” It keeps the exposure at the level you want to create a well-lit image. Simply tap on the screen and you will see a sun icon appear. Move your finger up or down to adjust your exposure accordingly.

10. Use Natural Light for Food Photography

When you shoot with your smartphone, ensure that you are using natural light.

Most food pictures regular people take in restaurants look horrible because of artificial lighting. Fluorescent and other types of artificial lights create unwanted color casts. As a result, they cause your pictures to look hard and flat.

Your food needs to look as fresh as possible to look appealing. To achieve this, natural light is the way to go. Professional food photographers use large and expensive studio lights to mimic natural, diffused daylight.

But how can you shoot photos at home without strobes or expensive equipment? Simply bring your plate to a window with natural light or shoot outside in the shade.

Make sure you stay away from the bright sun as it creates hard shadows in your scene. If you can’t avoid it, shield your dish with a small diffusion disc or panel. It works much like a window in softening the light.

Conclusion—Food Photography With a Phone

Smartphone photography should be fun! And food photography is no different. These tips will help you create some delicious-looking photos. Explore what works and what doesn’t. Experiment with different techniques for different dishes!

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But what lens is best for food photography? Do you need a zoom or a prime lens? What focal length is best when shooting food? And how much do you need to spend on a food photography lens? We answer these questions and give you our top recommendations.

Our top food photography lens is the Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM. Its wide zoom range makes it incredibly versatile, letting you capture different shots. The optical quality is of the highest order. Plus, its wide maximum aperture gives you excellent depth of field control.

Our Top 3 Choices for the Best Lens for Food Photography

Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM

Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM

Canon RF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

Canon RF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

Canon RF 35mm F/1.8 Macro IS STM

Canon RF 35mm F/1.8 Macro IS STM

What Is the Best Lens for Food Photography?

The best lens for food photography helps you get the best results from your culinary photoshoots. Our top three picks for the top brands are the Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM, Nikon Nikkor Z MC 105mm F/2.8 VR S, and Sony FE 90mm F/2.8 Macro G OSS.

The trouble is that there are several types of food photography shoots. And different photographers prefer different types of lenses. So, which lens is best for you?

As a food photographer, you have a wide range of lenses available. Of course, you can choose between zoom and prime lenses. But you also have to consider focal length.

Many food photographers like to use standard-angle lenses. Something around 50mm is versatile, letting you get close or capture wider shots. But others like to use telephoto lenses.

Often, focal lengths of 70mm to 120mm are associated with portrait photography. But they work incredibly well for close-ups in food photography.

Also, take note of a lens’s maximum aperture. For food photography, you want it as wide as possible. This gives you good low-light performance and better depth-of-field control. Highlighting the food with an artistic bokeh effect is a great idea.

Here’s a quick rundown of the best lenses for food photography. The following section looks at each lens in more detail. Our article concludes with a buyer’s guide for food photography lenses.

Our Top Choice

Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM

Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM

• Exceptional low-light performance with f/2 aperture
• Enhanced control over depth for subject isolation
• High image quality and direct setting changes
• Resistant to dust and water, fluorine coated

Best Canon Telephoto

Canon RF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

Canon RF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

• Delivers stunning close-up imagery at 1.4x magnification
• Bright f/2.8 aperture for blurred backgrounds and low light
• 5-stop Optical Image Stabilizer for sharp, stable shots
• SA Control Ring adjusts bokeh shape and character

Best Affordable Canon

Canon RF 35mm F/1.8 Macro IS STM

Canon RF 35mm F/1.8 Macro IS STM

• 1:1 magnification level for stunning close-ups
• Fast f/1.8 maximum aperture for low-light performance
• Built-in image stabilization improves exposure control
• Manual control ring on barrel for hands-on functionality

Best Nikon Telephoto

Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm F/2.8 VR S

Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm F/2.8 VR S

• Reveals hidden worlds in life-size 1:1 magnification
• Sharpness, contrast, and clarity with minimal distortion
• Versatile focal length for comfortable distance shooting
• Vibration Reduction for blur-free handheld shots

Best Nikon Standard Prime

Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 50mm F/2.8

Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 50mm F/2.8

• Macro standard 1:1 magnification level
• Fast f/2.8 maximum aperture
• Aspherical and ED elements reduce glare and distortion
• Weather-sealed with protective fluorine coating on glass

Best Nikon Zoom

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S

• Versatile for various photo and video applications
• Stunning clarity, high resolution, and natural bokeh
• Fast, accurate autofocusing with Multi-Focusing System
• Dust- and moisture-resistant for worry-free durability

Best Sony Prime Lens

Sony FE 90mm F/2.8 Macro G OSS SEL90M28G

Sony FE 90mm F/2.8 Macro G OSS SEL90M28G

• Advanced image stabilization for clear handheld shots
• Exceptional bokeh with a 9-blade circular aperture
• Super Nano AR Coating and Super ED glass
• Precise focusing with Direct Drive SSM technology

Best Sony Zoom Lens

Sony FE 24-105mm F/4 G OSS SEL24105G

Sony FE 24-105mm F/4 G OSS SEL24105G

• Versatile 24-105mm range for various subjects
• G-lens design ensures high resolution
• Constant f/4 aperture for consistent depth of field
• Minimum focus distance of 1.25 ft / 38 cm

Best Fujifilm Prime Lens

Fujifilm FUJINON XF 80mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR Macro

Fujifilm FUJINON XF 80mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR Macro

• High-quality macro shooting from any distance
• Beautiful bokeh and high resolving power
• 5-stop image stabilization for sharp images
• Weather-resistant, perfect for outdoor shoots

Best Fujifilm Zoom Lens

Fujifilm FUJINON XF 50-140mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR

Fujifilm FUJINON XF 50-140mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR

• Offers versatile 76-214mm equivalent focal lengths
• Exceptional low-light performance with f/2.8 aperture
• Top-tier image stabilization for sharp shots
• Weather-resistant for shooting in any conditions

Best Panasonic Lens

Panasonic LUMIX S 50mm F/1.8

Panasonic LUMIX S 50mm F/1.8

• Versatile 50mm prime lens
• Sensational aspherical, ED and UHR glass elements
• Fast and smooth focusing with no focus breathing
• Dust- and splash-resistant for added durability

Best Sigma Lens

Sigma 85mm F/1.4 Art DG HSM Prime Lens for Sigma

Sigma 85mm F/1.4 Art DG HSM Prime Lens for Sigma

• Exceptional optical structure with 14 lens elements
• Part of the world-renowned Sigma Global Vision Line
• Newly designed hyper sonic motor for quick AF control
• Works with mount converter MC-11 for Sony E-mount users

12 Best Lenses for Food Photography

Now, let’s look at the best food photography lenses. We review a wide range of lenses for any food photography style.

There are prime and zoom lenses. There are standard-angle lenses and telephoto lenses. We also recommend food lenses for all the top camera brands. We also provide DSLR lens alternatives where applicable.

1. Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM

Brand	Brand Canon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 28-70 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Custom control ring, water-resistant, fluorine coating
Best For	Best For Those who need a versatile, high-quality Canon zoom lens

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Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM

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$2,739.95 $3,099.00

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The RF 28-70mm F/2L USM is the best lens for food photography for Canon mirrorless users. The optical quality is fantastic, with little distortion or aberration, even at the edges. It also has a 12-pin connection system for better communication with the camera.

The focal length range is ideal for food photography. The 24 mm end lets you shoot wide shots. This is handy for confined spaces like kitchens. The 70 mm end enables you to capture detailed close-ups.

The excellent build quality doesn’t stop with the expertly crafted glass elements. The barrel is also durable and water-resistant. This gives you peace of mind when working in culinary environments. The fluorine coating protects the outer elements against water, oil, and grease.

The Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM is compatible with Canon’s mirrorless cameras. But if you’re still using a Canon DSLR, the Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM is the perfect alternative.

2. Canon RF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

Brand	Brand Canon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 100 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Angular and Shift IS, SA control ring, custom control ring, dust and water resistant
Best For	Best For Those who want a quality Canon telephoto lens for close-ups

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Canon RF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

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The RF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM is one of Canon’s finest macro lenses. But it’s not limited to macro photography. It’s also an ideal choice for food photographers!

The 100mm focal length lets you shoot tightly cropped, detailed close-ups. It also has a unique Spherical Aberration control ring. It lets you change the shape and texture of the background and foreground bokeh.

The lens offers five stops of exposure compensation thanks to its built-in image stabilization. This hybrid stabilization system also compensates for angular and shift camera shake.

You can’t fault the Canon RF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM‘s picture quality. Edge-to-edge sharpness is guaranteed.

It’s a Canon RF lens for mirrorless cameras. But you can get the Canon EF 100mm F/2.8L IS USM for a DSLR camera.

3. Canon RF 35mm F/1.8 IS Macro STM

Brand	Brand Canon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 1.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 35 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Custom control ring, 12-pin communication
Best For	Best For Those who need of a versatile, affordable standard Canon prime lens

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Canon RF 35mm F/1.8 Macro IS STM

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The Canon RF 35mm F/1.8 IS Macro STM is an incredibly versatile prime lens for food photography. Its 35mm focal length gives a wide field of view, which is great for wider scenes. But the macro magnification lets you shoot close-ups as well.

An f/1.8 max aperture gives excellent exposure control, letting you work in low-light situations without a flash. And the image stabilization gives you even more exposure control in dimly lit settings.

Thanks to the custom control ring on the barrel, you have more manual controls. The 12-pin communication system improves response times between the camera and lens.

The affordable price tag makes the Canon RF 35mm F/1.8 IS Macro STM a great food lens for photographers on a budget. Considering its image quality, it offers excellent value for your money.

You can buy the DSLR equivalent Canon EF 35mm F/2 IS USM used or renewed.

4. Nikon Nikkor Z MC 105mm F/2.8 VR S

Brand	Brand Nikon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 105 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Custom control ring, shortcut function button, nano-crystal coating
Best For	Best For Those who need a quality Nikon telephoto prime lens for close-ups

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Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm F/2.8 VR S

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$846.95 $1,046.95

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The Nikon Nikkor Z MC 105mm F/2.8 VR S is a fantastic lens for food photography. It’s a macro lens with a portrait focal length. That means it’s the best Nikon lens for food photography close-ups.

A maximum aperture of f/2.8 gives excellent exposure control. It’s also wide enough to give smooth bokeh when a shallow depth of field is desired.

You also have a built-in image stabilization system that reduces motion blur. This lets you use the lens in even darker situations without a flash or a tripod.

It’s a great lens if you like manual controls. The lens has a custom control ring and a shortcut function button. It gives you more settings control without going into the camera menu.

As one of Nikon’s superior S lenses, the Nikon Nikkor Z MC 105mm F/2.8 VR S has beautiful optics. And the nano-crystal coating on the elements reduces glare and improves light transmission.

Nikon Z lenses are compatible with Nikon’s Z-series mirrorless cameras. If you need a DSLR lens, the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 105mm F/1.4E ED is your best choice.

5. Nikon Nikkor Z MC 50 F/2.8

Brand	Brand Nikon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 50 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Aspherical and Extra-low (ED) elements, Fluorine coating
Best For	Best For Those who need a versatile Nikon standard prime lens

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Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 50mm F/2.8

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$604.99

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A 50mm lens is always useful, but the Nikkor Z MC 50 F/2.8 is another level of versatility. With a 1:1 magnification level, you can shoot proper macro close-ups. You can shoot wider shots and get close with the same lens.

Thanks to the aspherical and ED elements, glare and aberrations are kept to a minimum. The outer elements also have a fluorine coating that protects against splashes and smudges.

The f/2.8 max aperture might seem slow for a 50mm lens. But it gives decent exposure and depth of field control. Thankfully, Nikon Z series cameras also have image stabilization if you need more options.

The Nikon Nikkor Z MC 50 F/2.8 is weather-sealed. You don’t need to worry about splashes and sploshes in the kitchen.

The Nikon AF-S FX 50mm F/1.8G is the best DSLR equivalent.

6. Nikon Nikkor Z 24-70mm F/2.8 S

Brand	Brand Nikon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 24-70 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Multi-focus system, water-repellent, aspherical elements, anti-glare coating
Best For	Best For Those who need a versatile, high-quality Nikon zoom lens

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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S

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$1,996.95 $2,396.95

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If you want a pro-level zoom lens for your Nikon mirrorless, the Nikon Nikkor Z 24-70mm F/2.8 S is the perfect choice. The 24-70mm focal length is perfect for food photography. The aspherical elements and anti-glare coating ensure crystal-clear image quality.

Using Nikon’s multi-focusing system, two AF motors improve precision and speed. There’s no increase in noise. And the AF motor can handle anything you throw at it. That’s good news if you photograph busy chefs in a professional kitchen.

A manual focus ring allows you to override the autofocus when necessary. There’s a custom control ring and function button for more personalized functionality.

The Nikon Nikkor Z 24-70mm F/2.8 S is expensive. But it’s worth it if you want professional-standard food photography images and media.

If you still use a Nikon DSLR camera, you can opt for the Nikon AF-S 24-70mm F/2.8E ED VR lens.

7. Sony FE 90mm F/2.8 Macro G OSS

Brand	Brand Sony
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 90 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features 28 cm min. focus distance, Super ED elements, 9-blade aperture, nano AR coating
Best For	Best For Those who want an ultra-sharp Sony prime lens for close-ups

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Sony FE 90mm F/2.8 Macro G OSS SEL90M28G

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$998.00 $1,099.99

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The Sony FE 90mm F/2.8 Macro G OSS is a superb prime lens for food photography. Its 90mm focal length allows for tight compositions. And the 1:1 magnification and 28 cm minimum focus distance help capture stunning close-ups.

The quality of the glass is sensational. The barrel contains advanced spherical and Super ED elements. They work to reduce chromatic aberrations and ghosting. The Nano Coating also reduces glare and improves light transmission.

A fast f/2.8 aperture is perfect for working in low light. It has a rounded nine-blade aperture diaphragm. This produces better-defined bokeh shapes and a smoother background blur.

A rugged, water-resistant build lets you use the FE 90mm F/2.8 Macro G OSS in culinary environments. It’s also surprisingly affordable for a telephoto prime lens of this standard.

8. Sony FE 24-105mm F/4 G OSS

Brand	Brand Sony
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 24-105 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization 1
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Aspherical and ED elements, 9-blade aperture, Nano AR coating
Best For	Best For Those who need a quality, versatile Sony zoom lens

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Sony FE 24-105mm F/4 G OSS SEL24105G

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$1,198.00

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The Sony FE 24-105mm F/4 G OSS offers the perfect blend of quality and versatility. With a wide 24-105mm zoom range, you can shoot anything from wide scenes to super-sharp close-ups.

A combination of aspherical and ED elements gives you brilliant optical quality. Distortion is often problematic with lenses with such a large focal length range. But that’s barely a problem with this lens. It’s sharp throughout the zoom range.

In a perfect world, the f/4 max aperture would be faster. But the Optical Steady Shot (OSS) stabilization helps compensate. This lets you shoot with slower shutter speeds without the risk of motion blur.

A Direct Drive Super Sonic Wave Motor (DDSSM) provides fast, quiet, and reliable focusing. It handles moving subjects very well. There’s also a manual focus override option for those who want to take control.

The FE 24-105mm F/4 G OSS is dust- and moisture-resistant. So, it can be used in a wide range of environments. This adds even more to the versatility of this Sony food photography lens.

9. Fujifilm XF 80mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR

Brand	Brand Fujifilm
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 80 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Weather-resistant, aspherical and ED elements, floating focus system
Best For	Best For Those who want a quality Fujifilm prime lens for close-ups

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Fujifilm FUJINON XF 80mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR Macro

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$1,199.00

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The Fujifilm XF 80mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR is a brilliant prime lens for food photography. The 80mm portrait focal length lets you get up close and personal with the food. The superb glass quality ensures stunning picture quality.

The stunning picture quality results from the lens barrel’s aspherical, ED, and Super-ED elements. You experience very little glare, ghosting, or aberration.

With a fast aperture and optical image stabilization, the lens offers incredible exposure control. The f/2.8 aperture is fast enough for most. But the stabilizer provides another five stops of compensation.

A floating focus system improves picture quality when shooting at the macro range. With element groups for near and far focusing, there’s less risk of aberrations.

The XF 80mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR is a durable, weather-resistant lens. Its outer elements have a fluorine coating that protects the glass against scratches, oil marks, and smudges.

10. Fujifilm XF 50-140mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR

Brand	Brand Fujifilm
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 50-140 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization 1
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Internal focus system, dust- and water-resistant, triple linear AF motors
Best For	Best For Those who need a versatile Fujifilm zoom lens

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Fujifilm FUJINON XF 50-140mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR

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$1,399.00 $1,599.95

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The XF 50-140mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR is a great choice if you need a more versatile Fujifilm lens. Its wide zoom range gives food photographers more shot variety.

This is one of Fujifilm’s older lenses. But it still works well today. This is partly because it features optical image stabilization. It provides an additional five stops of exposure control on top of a fast f/2.8 max aperture.

Thanks to three linear motors, the autofocus is fast and reliable. The internal focusing system allows the lens to hold its shape and ensures better picture quality throughout the zoom range.

As a dust and water-resistant lens, you can use the Fujifilm XF 50-140mm F/2.8 R LM OIS WR in tough conditions. You’ll have no problem in a professional kitchen or outdoor food market.

11. Panasonic Lumix S Pro 50mm F/1.8

Brand	Brand Panasonic LUMIX
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 1.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 50 mm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Aspherical and ED elements, dust- and splash-resistant, L mount compatible with Leica cameras
Best For	Best For Those who need a versatile and affordable Panasonic full-frame prime lens

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Panasonic LUMIX S 50mm F/1.8

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$347.99 $449.99

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The Panasonic Lumix S Pro 50mm F/1.8 is versatile, sharp, and affordable. It’s also a great option for video production, which is no surprise, seeing as Panasonic is the master of hybrid cameras.

We all know how useful 50mm lenses are. But they are even better when they have a fast F/1.8 maximum aperture. This gives you excellent picture quality in low light. And it helps you achieve a rich and creamy bokeh effect.

Most 50mm lenses don’t usually have one ED, one ultra-high refractive (UHR) element, and three aspherical elements. Corner-to-corner sharpness is guaranteed in all conditions.

You don’t need to stretch your budget too far for this one. The Lumix S Pro 50mm F/1.8 is surprisingly affordable, considering its quality and versatility. It’s a great option for food photographers and vloggers.

12. Sigma 85mm F/1.4 DG HSM Art

Other Key Features	Other Key Features SLD elements, rounded aperture diaphragm, Canon and Nikon models also available
Best For	Best For Sigma, Canon, and Nikon users who need a reasonably priced, high-quality prime lens

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Sigma 85mm F/1.4 Art DG HSM Prime Lens for Sigma

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$1,099.00

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Sigma’s Art lens range changed the reputation of third-party lenses. And the Sigma 85mm F/1.4 DG HSM Art is the perfect example of why that happened.

The 85mm focal length is ideal for detailed food photography. And thanks to the high-quality Special Low Dispersion (SLD) elements, the picture quality is fantastic. The light transmission is excellent. And you experience very little chromatic aberration.

There’s no image stabilization system in the lens. But thanks to the super-fast f/1.4 max aperture, you don’t need one. You’ll have no problems working in low light. And you can achieve a very shallow depth of field.

A Hyper-Sonic Motor (HSM) drives the autofocus system. It’s fast, reliable, and practically silent.

There’s a lens version compatible with Canon DSLR cameras. But the Sigma 85mm F/1.4 Art lens is also available with a Nikon F mount for Nikon DSLRs.

Buyer’s Guide for the Best Lens for Food Photography

Finding the best lens for food photography can be tricky. There are many specifications and features to consider. So, we put together this buyer’s guide to help you find the perfect lens.

Consider Crop Factor When Buying a Lens

Before buying a lens, you must determine whether your camera has a full-frame sensor or a cropped (APS-C) one. Even if you have the best camera for food photography, the lens will only function properly if you know your camera’s sensor.

A crop sensor is cheaper for a camera manufacturer to make. This makes decent digital cameras available to a wider variety of consumers. In a crop-frame camera, the sensor cuts out the edges of the frame. This increases the focal length.

The crop factor describes the difference between your camera’s sensor size and a traditional 35mm film frame. It calculates effective focal lengths and lets you compare lenses between camera models.

But the focal length of your lens will be different on a crop-sensor camera than on a full-frame one.

On a full-frame camera, a 50mm lens behaves like a 50mm lens. Put that same lens on a camera with a cropped frame sensor, and it acts more like an 80mm. It gives you more magnification, but your shots will be nowhere near as wide.

Consider this when shopping for a camera lens if you think you might upgrade from a cropped sensor to a full frame. Also, note that lenses designed for a crop frame won’t function on a full-frame camera. You can’t use a kit lens from an entry-level model on a full-frame camera.

Prime vs Zoom Lenses

Your most pressing concern when shopping for a lens is sharpness. This means using prime lenses when shooting still life or food photography. Prime lenses are sharper than zoom lenses.

Zoom lenses have more moving parts to enable the zoom function. This can result in lower image quality and sharpness. At wide angles, you can also get barrel or pin-cushion distortions.

They can also cause an increase in chromatic aberration and vignetting. Vignetting is especially apparent at wider apertures.

Prime lenses are usually “faster.” They have a larger maximum aperture, which enables quicker shutter speeds. They give you a much shallower depth of field. This lets you isolate your subject and get that beautiful blurred background.

Standard Prime Lenses (Quality on a Budget)

A 50mm prime lens is one of photography’s most useful and popular lenses. It’s also a great option for food photography. It lets you take a wide variety of shots even without a zoom.

The 50mm f/1.8 is often called the “nifty-fifty” because it offers decent results for a very low price. If your budget is tight or you’re just starting out, get this lens.

For food photography, 50mm is actually considered a wide-angle lens. If you shoot only one or two items straight-on or at a three-quarter angle, too much background and surface is in the frame.

If you use the lens this way, you need large backgrounds. If the background is too small, you can see details beyond your decorated space, ruining the aesthetic you’ve created.

We’ve also included 35mm lenses in our list. Usually, a 35mm lens is too wide for still-life-style food photography. But they have macro magnification that allows for extreme close-ups.

The one on the left is at 50mm. You can see the background doesn’t take over the whole frame. You can also see the edge of the surface. The food is too far away to really see into the dish.

I took the shot on the right at 60mm. I didn’t move the camera or tripod. You can see that the extra 10mm makes a big difference.

Telephoto Prime Lenses for Portrait-Style Food Images

A 100mm macro lens is outstanding to have in your kit. This telephoto lens is not only for macro and close-up shots. You can also get lovely portrait-style shots by pulling further away from your set. You will get a great blurred background.

If you buy a 100mm or 105mm macro lens for a cropped frame sensor, you will shoot at a focal length of 150mm. This is a very tight crop. It is especially tight if space is an issue or you have several props or a storytelling aspect to your images.

An 80-90mm lens is good for food photography if you want a wider shot. It’s not as wide as when you use a 50mm, but it lets you incorporate more of your scene.

I shoot a lot of food portraiture. And I sometimes find that shooting at 70mm is not quite close enough. But the 100mm gets me too close.

Also, you risk more distortion when you shoot wide open, say at 70mm on a 24-70mm lens. Zoom lenses usually function at their best somewhere in the middle of their available focal lengths.

Get Closer with a 24-70mm Zoom Lens

If you want the added flexibility of a zoom lens, a 24-70mm lens is perfect. At the 24 mm end, you can shoot wide scenes. At the 70mm focal length, you can zoom in for close-ups.

While a 24-70mm zoom is ideal for food photography, other zoom lenses also work well. You can find 24-105mm lenses sharp enough for shooting food. And other focal lengths work well with this style of photography.

As stated above, zoom lenses tend to have slower maximum apertures. A good aperture range is important with food photography because of the exposure and depth of field control.

But you can get 24-70mm zoom lenses with f/2.8 apertures. That’s a great help when shooting food. These lenses cost a bit more, but it’s worth it if you’re serious about food photography.

Conclusion: The Best Lens for Food Photography

Culinary photoshoots are easy with the best lens for food photography. Whether you use a prime or zoom lens, you can get detailed close-ups or wider shots of dining tables or kitchens. As long as you know the type of shots you want to take, finding a food photography lens isn’t a problem.

The Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM is our favorite lens for food photography. The zoom range gives you excellent flexibility and shot variation. The fast f/2 aperture gives you low-light performance and depth of field control. And it gives you crisp, sharp images throughout the zoom range.

Our Top 3 Choices for the Best Lens for Food Photography

Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM

Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM

Canon RF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

Canon RF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

Canon RF 35mm F/1.8 Macro IS STM

Canon RF 35mm F/1.8 Macro IS STM

Are you looking for wood or marble textures? Do you want something robust with a long lifespan? Or do you need something portable for shooting in different locations?

The iProtech Double-Sided Photography Backdrop is our top choice for food photographers. It gives you six vibrant color options. The tiles are durable, waterproof, and reusable. And it’s an affordable accessory that makes a huge difference.

Keep reading for more of the best food photography backdrops.

iProtech Double-Sided Photography Backdrop

iProtech Double-Sided Photography Backdrop

Goshoot Photo Backdrop Board

Goshoot Photo Backdrop Board

Allenjoy Double-Sided Wooden Photography Backdrop

Allenjoy Double-Sided Wooden Photography Backdrop

What Is the Best Food Photography Backdrop?

The best food photography backdrops help you create new themes and explore more visual avenues. You have more freedom to create images that express different moods. You can make specialist food photos for specific types of cuisine. And you can achieve anything that clients throw your way.

Of course, you want a robust and reusable backdrop. Some photographers use colored card or paper, but that isn’t good practice in the long run. While it is affordable, paper is too easily damaged. You need a backdrop that can withstand the spills and thrills of food photography time and time again.

That means you have to think about the material the backdrop is made of. Laminated paper is durable enough and easy to clean. But you can also get vinyl or plastic backdrops that are strong and reliable, even after many photoshoots.

You also need to think about the size of the backdrop you need. You should think about the space you’re working in and the surface you’re working on. These factors will determine the size of the backdrop you should use.

Then you need to think about the color or finish you want the backdrop to have. Do you want flat colors? Or do you want textures like a marble surface or wooden tabletop? The finish defines the tone and aesthetic of your food photography.

Here’s a rundown of the best food photography backdrops. We also have a buyer’s guide at the end if you need more information before you buy.

Best for Bright Colors

iProtech Double-Sided Photography Backdrop

iProtech Double-Sided Photography Backdrop

• Offers six distinct Morandi color patterns
• Crafted from durable, waterproof paper and PP
• Ideal for food, cosmetic, and jewelry photography
• Easy to clean and maintain with 3D HD printing

Best Durability

Goshoot Photo Backdrop Board

Goshoot Photo Backdrop Board

• Double-sided design offers four unique patterns
• Lightweight, durable, and easy to clean
• Quick and simple setup with included brackets
• Ideal size for tabletop food and product photography

Best Varnished Wood Backdrop

Allenjoy Double-Sided Wooden Photography Backdrop

Allenjoy Double-Sided Wooden Photography Backdrop

• Double-sided design for versatile styling
• Waterproof surface for easy cleanup
• Ideal size for desktop photography
• Durable paper construction prevents wrinkles

Best Marble Finish Backdrop

BEIYANG Photo Backdrop Boards

BEIYANG Photo Backdrop Boards

• Made from durable PVC material
• Features clear, realistic 3D printing
• Versatile with patterned and reflective sides
• Ideal for desktop photography and commercial shoots

Best Versatility

iProtech 10-Pattern Photography Backdrop Boards

iProtech 10-Pattern Photography Backdrop Boards

• Five double-sided backdrops
• 10 different backdrop colors and textures
• Waterproof anti-glare protective coating
• Bracket supports included

Best Value Backdrop

Allenjoy Double-Sided Blue and Black Backdrop

Allenjoy Double-Sided Blue and Black Backdrop

• Simple yet highly effective colors
• Double-sided backdrop with black and blue color options
• Simple, easy to use, and affordable
• Film-protected paper is waterproof and easy to clean

Best for Marble Surfaces

Flat Lay Marble-Finish Paper Backdrop

Flat Lay Marble-Finish Paper Backdrop

• Three double-sided backdrop boards
• Six different marble finishes
• No glare from coating when using strong lighting
• Wipe-clean surface for easy maintenance

Best Backdrop and Lightbox Set

MAGIPEA Portable Photo Booth and Backdrop Board

MAGIPEA Portable Photo Booth and Backdrop Board

• Set includes seven unique backdrops
• Portable lightbox with LED light
• Durable wood panels for backdrops
• Carrying case included for easy transportation

Best for a Rough Aesthetic

Meking Wood/Concrete Flat Lay Backdrop

Meking Wood/Concrete Flat Lay Backdrop

• Lightweight, anti-dirty food photography backdrop
• Waterproof surface, easy to clean
• Ideal for small product tabletop photography
• One backdrop meets two needs with different patterns

Best Paper Backdrop Set

Evanto Photo Backdrop Kit

Evanto Photo Backdrop Kit

• Double-sided design for two patterns
• Waterproof surface for easy cleanup
• Ideal for desktop photography and videography
• Lightweight and durable for everyday use

10 Best Food Photography Backdrops

Now we’ll look at all the best food photography backdrops in more detail. We’ll give you all the information you need to make an informed decision when buying your backdrop for food photography.

1. iProtech Double-Sided Photography Backdrop

Brand	Brand iProtech
Dimensions	Dimensions 23 x 34 inches / 60 x 86 cm
Material	Material Film-coated paper
No. of Pieces	No. of Pieces Three, double-sided
Textures / Colors	Textures / Colors Blue, light blue, red, orange, yellow, green
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Non-glare, non-reflective protective coating, easy to clean, waterproof
Best For	Best For Bright and colorful food photography

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iProtech Double-Sided Photography Backdrop

The iProtech Double-sided Photography Backdrop set is perfect if you want to create vibrant images that pop with color. The flat, single-tone colors bring a joyful intensity to the images. And it’s a creative way to highlight and enhance the colors of your food.

They are paper backdrops, but the paper is covered with a protective film. That makes them more durable and easy to wipe clean. And it’s an anti-glare, non-reflective coating, so there’s no bounce from the photography lights.

With three two-sided panels, you have a total of six colors to play with. That allows you to mix and match, allowing for more creativity. It also means you can change the theme or tone quickly and easily. Simply turn one panel over for another pop of color. 

2. Goshoot Photo Backdrop Board

Dimensions	Dimensions 24 x 24 inches / 60 x 60 cm
Material	Material Plyboard
No. of Pieces	No. of Pieces Two, double-sided
Textures / Colors	Textures / Colors Natural wood, white wood, concrete, grey marble
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Two brackets included, wipe-clean surface
Best For	Best For Photographers looking for durable boards with classic textures

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Goshoot Photo Backdrop Board

Amazon.com

$35.99

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The Goshoot Photo Backdrop Boards are perfect for traditional food photography. With four classic textures, you can replicate recognizable kitchen scenes. That’s ideal for home cooking and baking imagery.

The set has two o.2-inch / 0.5 cm thick ply boards. They are strong and robust, so they will last shoot after shoot. And the slick, glare-free surface is easy to clean. You can also use water-based cleaning products without doing any damage.

You get four stylized surfaces. They are natural wood, white wood, concrete, and grey marble. You can use them individually. And thanks to the two brackets, you can prop one up vertically to add another dimension to your photography.

They are heavier than paper alternatives. But you get extra strength and durability in return. The price isn’t much higher than the paper options, so you get excellent value too.

3. Allenjoy Double-Sided Wooden Photography Backdrop

Brand	Brand Allenjoy
Dimensions	Dimensions 34.4 x 15.7 inches / 87 x 40 cm
Material	Material Stiff coated paper
No. of Pieces	No. of Pieces One, double-sided
Textures / Colors	Textures / Colors Two wood finishes
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Waterproof, wipe-clean surface
Best For	Best For A rustic, farmhouse aesthetic

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Allenjoy Double-Sided Wooden Photography Backdrop

Amazon.com

$13.99

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The Allenjoy Double-sided Wooden Photography Backdrop is the best option if you want a rustic wood finish. It’s perfect for home cooking shoots where you want a country house aesthetic.

You only get one backdrop with this purchase. But it’s a double-sided option, and each side has a variation of the grainy wood texture.

You get an excellent amount of surface area (34.4 x 15.7 inch / 87 x 40 cm) to work with, allowing you to shoot wider shots. That’s ideal when shooting larger food items like loaves of bread and cakes.

The main material is paper, so the backdrop weighs next to nothing. But the paper is protected with a film coating, so it’s easy to wipe clean. It’s also reusable, so you won’t waste money replacing it time after time.

4. BEIYANG Photo Backdrop Boards

Brand	Brand BEIYANG
Dimensions	Dimensions 24 x 24 inches / 60 x 60 cm
Material	Material PVC
No. of Pieces	No. of Pieces Two, double-sided
Textures / Colors	Textures / Colors Pure white, marble
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Oil and waterproof, support bracket included
Best For	Best For A classic marble surface effect

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BEIYANG Photo Backdrop Boards

Amazon.com

$49.99

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If you want a classic marble surface in your images, the BEIYANG Photo Backdrop Boards are exactly what you need. The realistic marble texture gives your images a classic yet chic kitchen aesthetic. It gives your food photography a classy finish that’s perfect for culinary publications.

The boards are made of thick PVC, so they are durable. They are also lightweight and easy to store and carry. And the PVC is oil and waterproof, so they can survive spills and splashes from a messy food photoshoot. Simply use water-based cleaning products to wipe them clean and reuse them when needed.

Both panels are double-sided, with marble on one side and pure white on the other. You can position them both flat on a surface. Or you can prop one up at a right angle using the supportive brackets.

5. iProtech 10-Pattern Double-Sided Backdrop Boards

Brand	Brand iProtech
Dimensions	Dimensions 16 x 16 inches / 40 x 40 cm
No. of Pieces	No. of Pieces Five, double-sided
Material	Material Coated cardboard
Textures / Colors	Textures / Colors Marble (4x), brick (2x), wood (2x), concrete (2x)
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Waterproof, anti-glare coating, bracket included
Best For	Best For Photographers who need a variety of different textures

×

iProtech 10-Pattern Photography Backdrop Boards

Amazon.com

$49.99

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Amazon.co.uk

$49.99

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Amazon.ca

$99.99

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Amazon.de

$102.23

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Amazon.es

$106.96

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Amazon.it

$107.85

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Amazon.sg

$150.23

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Amazon.com.au

$183.59

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Amazon.sa

$423.55

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The iProtech 10-Pattern Double-sided Backdrop Boards give you the best variety of background textures. It’s a five-piece set, and each panel is double-sided. That means you have 10 textures to play with.

These textures include four marble options. There are two wooden panel finishes—one light and one dark. You get two brick panels. And there’s a light and a dark concrete backdrop. They give you excellent flexibility, allowing you to change the style of your images just by swapping a board.

Each board is made of thick, durable cardboard, which is coated with a protective film covering. It’s a non-reflective coating, so you won’t experience glare from the lighting. And it’s waterproof, so you don’t need to worry about spills.

You also get a right-angle bracket, so you can prop one board horizontally and another vertically. That allows you to employ two textures in one image.

6. Allenjoy Double-sided Blue and Black Backdrop

Brand	Brand Allenjoy
Dimensions	Dimensions 34.4 x 15.7 inches / 87 x 40 cm
No. of Pieces	No. of Pieces One, double-sided
Material	Material Coated papaer
Textures / Colors	Textures / Colors Black, light blue
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Non-glare coating
Best For	Best For Photographers looking for affordable backdrops with a sharp style

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Allenjoy Double-Sided Blue and Black Backdrop

Amazon.sa

$122.64

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The Allenjoy Double-sided Blue and Black Backdrop may not be the most versatile option. But the black and light blue colors make for food photography that really pops. You can also mix and match them with the green and yellow backdrop set for more color options. 

Their rectangular shape gives you a large surface area to work with. And even though the boards have a protective coating, there’s no glare or light bounce from the surface.

The coating also means they are protected against water and oil spills. And you can clean them with a damp cloth when the shoot is over.

You only get one panel in this set. But thanks to the affordable price, you can purchase other colored backdrops for additional colors and textures.

7. Flat Lay Marble-Finish Paper Backdrop

Brand	Brand FEIWSZIHU
Dimensions	Dimensions 22 x 34 inches / 56 x 86 cm
No. of Pieces	No. of Pieces Three, double-sided
Material	Material Plastic-coated paper
Textures / Colors	Textures / Colors Six marble finishes
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Waterproof, non-glare coating
Best For	Best For A variety of marble surface textures

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Flat Lay Marble-Finish Paper Backdrop

Amazon.com

$25.98

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Amazon.co.uk

$28.94

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Amazon.de

$33.65

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Amazon.ca

$34.98 $36.98

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Amazon.sg

$38.64

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Amazon.com.au

$58.38

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Amazon.sa

$261.00

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If you’re a fan of using marble backdrops in your food images, you need the Flat Lay Marble-finish Paper Backdrop. It’s a three-piece set, with each piece having a different marble finish on either side. That gives you excellent flexibility, but you can maintain a classy kitchen aesthetic.

Made of coated paper, the panels are lightweight and easy to store. You can even roll them up to make them easier to store and transport. 

The plastic coating protects the paper and makes it easy to wash after a shoot. And it’s a non-glare coating, so there’s nothing to worry about if you’re using a flash or other artificial lights. 

The rectangular shape and wide surface area allow you to shoot close-ups or wider shots. You can create images of individual food items or full culinary spreads. 

8. MAGIPEA Portable Photo Booth and Backdrop Board

Brand	Brand MAGIPEA
Dimensions	Dimensions 19 x 19 inches / 48 x 48 cm
No. of Pieces	No. of Pieces Seven
Material	Material Wood
Textures / Colors	Textures / Colors Water color blue, pink tile, rainbow wood, rough marble, 3D cube brick, large quartz, artificial grass
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Comes with lightbox, LED lamp, and carrying case
Best For	Best For Photographers looking for backdrops and a lightbox

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MAGIPEA Portable Photo Booth and Backdrop Board

The MAGIPEA Portable Photo Booth and Backdrop Board is a unique entry on our list. Not only do you get seven exciting backdrops, but you also get a photography lightbox complete with an LED lamp.

All seven of the backdrop textures are fun and interesting. You have watercolor blue and pink tiles. You can try the 3D cube brick or large quartz if you want a rough texture and distinct angles. You can even try the artificial grass backdrop if you’re doing something sports or dairy themes.

Each backdrop panel measures 19 x 19 inches / 48 x 48 cm. And they fit perfectly into the photo lightbox. That makes it an all-in-one mini photo studio for food photography. You also get a carrying case, so you can take your studio with you.

The backdrop boards are made of wood. That makes them heavier than some alternatives. But they are much more durable than coated paper backdrops. And remember, you also get the carrying case that makes transporting it easier.

9. Meking Wood/Concrete Flat Lay Backdrop

Brand	Brand Meking
Dimensions	Dimensions 22 x 35 inches / 56 x 89 cm
No. of Pieces	No. of Pieces Three, double-sided
Material	Material Paper
Textures / Colors	Textures / Colors Concrete, marble, wood
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Waterproof, non-glare coating
Best For	Best For Photographers looking for a rough and rustic effect

×

Meking Wood/Concrete Flat Lay Backdrop

Amazon.com

$33.59

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If you like the harsh tones of marble, concrete, and wood, the Meking Wood/Concrete Flat Lay Backdrop is what you need. 

It’s a three-piece set, and each piece is double-sided, giving you six textures to work with. They are all cold, gray colors. And the effects are several types of concrete, black marble, and wood with faded white paint. 

They are paper backdrops, so they are lightweight and roll up for easy transportation. The plastic film coating keeps them protected against liquids. And you’ll get no glare from the coating, allowing you to use different light sources for your food photography.

10. Evanto Photo Backdrop Kit

Brand	Brand Evanto
Dimensions	Dimensions 23 x 35 inches / 58 x 89 cm
Material	Material Film-covered plastic
No. of Pieces	No. of Pieces Five, double-sided
Textures / Colors	Textures / Colors Marble, flat beige, flat pink, water
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Waterproof coating
Best For	Best For Photographers looking for an affordable backdrop set with a variety of colors

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Evanto Photo Backdrop Kit

Amazon.com

$42.99

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The Evanto Photo Backdrop Kit is an affordable set of backdrops that give you excellent versatility. As all five backdrops are double-sided, you get a total of 10 colors. You have two flat colors—pink and beige. And you have several types of marble.

You also get a water backdrop that looks like the bottom of a blue swimming pool. It might not be a traditional backdrop color for food photography. But it’s a great way to create a different aesthetic in your images. 

The paper is resistant to rips and tears. And the film coating makes the paper water-resistant. It’s also glare-free, so you won’t have any light reflected back at you.

This set offers excellent value for money. And you have a mix of traditional backdrops with something more experimental. It’s definitely worth a shot.

Buyer’s Guide—Food Photography Backdrops

You can use just about any surface for food photography. But some surfaces work better than others. And different surfaces give you different aesthetic effects. Here are a few pointers to help you achieve the best results for your pictures.

Materials

Knowing the material of your backdrop helps you determine whether it’s durable or not. Below, you’ll find some of the most common materials in photography backgrounds.

• Paper or cardboard—These can be cheap food photography backdrops. This type of backdrop often features photorealistic textures. But it’s also prone to wrinkling and water damage because it’s pretty flimsy.
• Vinyl—It’s the best alternative to paper and cardboard. Because it’s technically plastic, it’s waterproof and durable. But it also tends to be shiny and challenging to unroll.
• PVC—It’s the most rigid material used for backdrops. But it’s worth noting that the printed material is still typically made of paper or cardboard. Ultimately, its durability depends on how the printed layer is protected from water and other elements.
• Laminate—This is the best choice when it comes to food photography backgrounds. The core is typically made of cardboard, so it’s light. But it also has a durable layer that protects the panel from water damage and wrinkling.

For the most part, all these materials work well for food photography. But each one has its own set of care instructions.

For instance, if it’s made of cardboard, you probably don’t want to put wet food on it. If it’s made of wood, you may want to treat it with varnish to prevent stains.

With synthetic food photography backgrounds, our favorites are laminate surfaces. They’re not only durable, but they’re also good at repelling water. It’s necessary since most foods tend to be wet or greasy.

Patterns

It’s crucial to find appropriate patterns when it comes to food photography backgrounds. Generally, you want your backdrop to have a minimalist design. Otherwise, your food gets lost in all those lines and shapes.

But there are also times when patterns give context to your food photos. For instance, if you’re shooting a Spanish dish, you may consider using colorful tiles. And if you want to recreate a kitchen setting, then a tile backsplash in the background would be perfect.

Textures

Photographers love backdrops with texture. It doesn’t matter if it’s from wood grain or concrete cracks, as long as it adds dimension to the image. Those tiny details can make pictures appear more realistic.

Of course, you don’t have to worry about the texture of natural backdrops. But when it comes to artificial backgrounds, the best options typically have 3D-like patterns.

Reflectiveness and Glare

Not all food backdrops are the same. Some of them reflect more light than others. So what does this mean to us as food bloggers and photographers?

If you use a background that bounces a lot of light back, you end up with ugly spots in your images.

When looking for a food photography backdrop, examine it in person to see if it’s shiny or not. If you can’t inspect the surface yourself, watch reviews on YouTube to figure out if it will work for you.

Conclusion: The Best Food Photography Backdrops

With the best food photography backdrop, your food photography will jump to the next level. You’ll be able to explore new themes. You can create aesthetics tailored to the client’s demands. And you can create images that belong in published cookbooks.

The iProtech Double-sided Photography Backdrop is our top choice. We love the array of vibrant colors that the set gives you. But you can also go for the backdrop sets with classic wood or marble textures. Or you can opt for the more experimental food photography backdrops.

Our Top 3 Choices for Food Photography Backdrops

iProtech Double-Sided Photography Backdrop

iProtech Double-Sided Photography Backdrop

Goshoot Photo Backdrop Board

Goshoot Photo Backdrop Board

Allenjoy Double-Sided Wooden Photography Backdrop

Allenjoy Double-Sided Wooden Photography Backdrop

The Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP is our list’s best tripod for taking food photos. It’s a strong and sturdy tripod. The 3-section legs give you incredible flexibility and versatility. And a dual panning head gives you complete control for smooth panning and tilting. We think it’s a perfect tripod for food photographers.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Tripod For Food Photography

Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP

Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP

Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 4-Section Tripod

Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 4-Section Tripod

K&F Concept 94 Tripod

K&F Concept 94 Tripod

What Is the Best Tripod for Food Photography?

A sturdy tripod is essential to any food photographer‘s equipment list. First, it allows you to shoot with a slower shutter speed without the risk of camera shake. You can work in low-light scenarios and still use your lowest ISO settings for the best image quality.

You need to look for a few specific elements in a tripod for taking food images. The tripod head is a good place to start. Ball and fluid heads give you a good range of movement.

Also, think about flexibility. You need a tripod that can adapt to the environment you’re in. Plus, you need to think about size and weight. Does the tripod fit in your camera backpack for location shoots? We have a full buyer’s guide on food photography tripods at the end.

Here’s a quick rundown of our tripod list. The next section looks at each tripod in detail. And if you’re hungry for food photo tips, check out our Edible Images e-book. It’s a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of food photography.

Our Top Choice

Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP

Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP

• 3-way pan head with built-in bubble level
• Multi-angle central column system
• Quick-release leg locks
• Maximum load capacity of 15.4 lb / 7 kg
• Lightweight yet sturdy aluminum construction

Best Tripod for DSLRs

Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 4-Section Tripod

Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 4-Section Tripod

• 90° center column mechanism
• 4-section legs with adjustable angles
• Quick Power Lock leg locks
• Supports up to 8.8 lb / 4 kg
• Lightweight aluminum construction

Best for Overhead Photography

K&F Concept 94 Tripod

K&F Concept 94 Tripod

• 360° panorama and 90° tilt for versatile shooting angles
• Universal quick release plate for simple camera attachment
• Aluminum alloy construction for strength and durability
• Non-slip rubber feet for stability and vibration reduction
• Compact and lightweight for easy portability

Best Portable Tripod

3 Legged Thing: Patti

3 Legged Thing: Patti

• Twist locks for fast setup and breakdown
• Adjustable leg angles for low-level shooting
• Quick-release plate for easy camera attachment
• 4-section tripod legs for maximum flexibility
• Lightweight yet sturdy aluminum construction

Best for Low-Angle Shots

Peak Design Travel Tripod

Peak Design Travel Tripod

• Legs can splay for low-angle shooting
• Vibration dampening head for sharper images
• Smartphone mount included for mobile photography
• Works with all cameras and phones
• Lightweight and compact

Best Tabletop Tripod

SIRUI 3T-35 Table Top Tripod

SIRUI 3T-35 Table Top Tripod

• Pocket-sized tripod for tabletop food photography
• Smooth-rotating ball head
• Non-slip rubber feet
• Maximum load capacity of 8.8 lb / 4 kg
• Works as a camera handle when legs are folded

Best for Professionals

Manfrotto 055 Aluminum Tripod

Manfrotto 055 Aluminum Tripod

• Maximum height of 66.9" / 1.7 m
• 90° center column feature for low-angle shots
• Quick Power Lock system for fast setup
• Maximum load capacity of 19.8 lb / 9 kg
• Lightweight yet sturdy aluminum construction

7 Best Tripods for Food Photography

1. Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP

Brand	Brand VANGUARD
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Minimum Height	Minimum Height 12 inches /30 m
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 70 inches / 1.77 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 11 lb / 5 kg
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 5.7 lb / 2.6 kg
Head Type	Head Type Dual pan head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Stop-n-lock system for central column, removable rubber feet, 3 built-in bubble levels
Best For	Best For Food photographers at all levels

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Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP

Amazon.com

$149.95

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The Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP has strong aluminum construction. It isn’t the lightest tripod on the light. But it gives you unrivaled reliability and versatility. And with a more than reasonable price, we think it is the best tripod for taking food photos.

The 3-section legs can be adjusted independently. That means you can work on uneven surfaces. For example, you might need two legs on a tabletop with the other on the floor. That type of tricky setup is no problem for this tripod.

You also have quick-release flip locks on the legs. And there are rubber feet for extra grip on slippy surfaces.

The tripod legs can be outstretched fully to give you a low shooting angle. And you can move the central column to a horizontal position.

The swivel stop-n-lock system keeps your camera locked, even at awkward angles. This gives you incredible shot variety. And it can be really helpful when working in cramped restaurants or kitchens.

The dual panning head is ideal for food photography. The Alta Pro tripod gives you excellent control over pan and tilt movements. The movement is smooth. And the built-in bubble levels help you achieve the perfect camera position. 

2. Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 4-Section Tripod

Brand	Brand Manfrotto
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Minimum Height	Minimum Height 3 inches / 8 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 63 inches / 1.6 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 15.4 lb / 7 kg
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 4.6 lb / 2.1 kg
Head Type	Head Type None
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Built-in bubble level, 4-section legs, quick-release flip locks
Best For	Best For DSLR cameras

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Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 4-Section Tripod

Amazon.com

$199.00

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The Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 is a reliable tripod for photographers with heavy cameras. It can take a load of up to 15.4 lb / 7 kg. That’s enough for a pro-level DSLR camera with large food photography lenses.

It even has the capacity for extra gear like external screens or DSLR microphones. These are good accessories if you’re using a DSLR for video.

The quick power lock and the rotating bubble level give you a smooth food photo experience. And the 4-section legs are easily adjusted with the quick-release locks. This helps you work quickly when you’re in a busy kitchen environment.

You can attach an extension arm to shoot overhead. It is stable enough to hold heavier camera-and-lens combos with a counterweight. But be careful not to extend it to its full height.

You need to buy the tripod head separately. But this lets you select the head that suits your needs best. The Manfrotto MVH500AH fluid head is a fantastic option for the MT190XPRO4 tripod.

3. K&F Concept 94 Tripod

Brand	Brand K&F Concept
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Minimum Height	Minimum Height 27 inches / 69 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 94 inches / 2.4 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 22 lb / 10 kg
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 4.4 lb / 2 kg
Head Type	Head Type Ball head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Transverse center column, quick-release plate, monopod functionality
Best For	Best For Vertical and low-angle photography

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K&F Concept 94 Tripod

Amazon.com

$129.99 $149.99

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The K&F Concept 94 is the best tripod for shooting at difficult angles. It has a unique horizontal arm you attach to the center column.

The arm allows you to mount the camera below the head for low angles. Or you can shoot from above for overhead shots. These are important shots food photographers need to master. 

This tripod has a 22 lb (10 kg) payload capacity. That’s strong enough for high-spec DSLR or mirrorless cameras. And you can use large lenses and extra equipment.

You also get an excellent range of movement from the ball head. You can pan and tilt without camera shake or vibrations. 

The legs are comprised of three adjustable sections. And it has special anti-rotation twist locks. They keep everything in position when you’re set. But they’re also quick and easy to adjust when it’s time for the next shot.

The tripod can also be used as a monopod. It’s a great way of shooting if you’re in a busy kitchen in full swing.

The Concept 94 tripod gives you an incredible range of shooting options. And it’s a strong, well-built piece of equipment. It’s a brilliant choice for creative food photographers.

4. 3 Legged Thing Patti

Brand	Brand 3 Legged Thing
Build Material	Build Material Magnesium alloy
Minimum Height	Minimum Height 7.2 inches / 18.5 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 64 inches / 1.6 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 22 lb / 10 kg
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 3.4 lb / 1.5 kg
Head Type	Head Type Ball head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Quick-release leg locks, modular functionality, inverted center column
Best For	Best For Location shooting, photographers who travel

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3 Legged Thing: Patti

Amazon.com

$129.99

Buy Now!

Patti by 3 Legged Thing is a lightweight yet strong tripod. It has excellent build quality. And the magnesium alloy material keeps the overall weight low. It can carry a load equal to the K&F Concept 94 (22 lb / 10 kg). But the tripod weighs 25% less!

Patti has a brilliant compact ball head. It gives you 360 degrees of panning movement. This means you can shoot from different angles without remounting the camera.

You can also invert the central column, meaning you can mount a camera upside down. This is ideal for shooting low angles. And it’s a great way to get extra close for food close-ups.

The 3-section legs are easily adjusted with the flip locks. And you can adjust each leg independently. That allows you to adapt to any food photography location. Patti also packs away nicely. It’s compact and lightweight, so you’ll have no problem taking it from shoot to shoot.

5. Peak Design Travel Tripod

Brand	Brand Peak Design
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Minimum Height	Minimum Height 5.5 inches / 14 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 60 inches / 1.5 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 20 lb / 9.1 kg
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 3.3 lb / 1.5 kg
Head Type	Head Type Ball head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Smartphone mount, non-slip feet, vibration dampening head
Best For	Best For Low-angle, smartphone, and travel photography

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Peak Design Travel Tripod

Amazon.com

$379.95

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The Peak Design travel tripod may have been designed for travel, but it’s also perfect for food photography. It has the sleekest look among the options on this list. And it also has a smartphone mount for mobile food photography. 

Also, let’s not forget the 20 lb (9.1 kg)) load-bearing capacity. It can hold a mirrorless or DSRL body with a telephoto lens.

The legs splay to give you a low shooting angle of 5.5 inches (14 cm). This is ideal for low-angle shooting on a tabletop or kitchen surface. You also get a decent max height for high-angle shots. And the adjustable legs make it a versatile tripod for food photography. 

The ball head is ideal for shooting food. It gives you a wide range of movement. And the action is super-smooth and vibration free.

You can control the level of movement with the locking ring. It gives you more control than knobs. And it doesn’t get in the way. So it’s a thoughtful tripod design.

At 3.4 lb (1.5 kg), this Peak Design tripod is a light and compact choice. You can use it for on-location shoots without breaking your spine. And its robust design also means it will last for years, whether you’re in the studio or traveling abroad. 

Check out our full list of the best travel tripods. 

6. Sirui 3T-35 Tabletop Tripod

Brand	Brand Sirui
Build Material	Build Material Stainless Steel
Minimum Height	Minimum Height 4.5 inches / 11.4 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 10 inches / 25.5 cm
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 8.8 lb / 4 kg
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 0.5 lb / 250 g
Head Type	Head Type Ball Head
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Foldable feet, extendable center column
Best For	Best For Smaller cameras and tabletop photography

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SIRUI 3T-35 Table Top Tripod

Amazon.com

$50.00

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The Sirui 3T-35 tripod is perfect for tabletop food photography. It weighs nothing more than half a pound (250 g). And it’s so compact it basically fits in your pocket.

But despite its small size, it’s surprisingly strong. It can’t support a full frame DSLR or mirrorless camera. But the 8.8 lb (4 kg) weight limit is enough for APS-C and smartphone cameras.

The ball head gives you smooth panning and tilting. It helps you get the perfect food composition when shooting from a tabletop or kitchen surface.

You can also adjust the center column for a higher or lower shooting angle. So it’s more versatile than you might think. 

You can fold the legs vertically to transform the tripod into a handle. This is a handy feature for food vloggers and streamers. You can film yourself and your surroundings when exploring food markets and culinary hotspots. 

If you’re interested in vlogging, check out our list of the best vlogging cameras.

7. Manfrotto 055 Aluminum Tripod

Brand	Brand Manfrotto
Build Material	Build Material Aluminum
Minimum Height	Minimum Height 3.5 inches / 9 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 67 inches / 1.7 m
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 19.8 lb / 9 kg
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 5.5 lb / 2.5 kg
Head Type	Head Type None
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Removable column for horizontal mounting, flip locks, non-slip feet
Best For	Best For Professional food photographers

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Manfrotto 055 Aluminum Tripod

Amazon.com

$214.95 $245.00

Buy Now!

The Manfrotto 055 tripod is a professional-grade piece of equipment. Professional food photographers need to know the tripod can handle their expensive gear. And thankfully, this tripod can hold up to 19.8 lb (9 kg) of gear. This is enough for full frame mirrorless and DSLR cameras. 

With a removable center column, this tripod gives you overhead shooting options. You can mount the column horizontally. And this makes it easy to position the camera above your delicious subject.

You can also adjust all three legs independently for maximum adaptability. And the secure flip locks make adjustments quick and easy. 

No tripod head is included with this option. But the Manfrotto XPRO ball head is one of the best options for the 055 tripod.

3 Reasons Why You Need a Tripod for Food Photography

There are three main reasons why every food photographer must have a tripod.

1. Sharper Images: The tripod prevents any camera shake your hands may cause. It stabilizes your camera to create crisp images even when doing long exposures. And it lets you keep your ISO low and use a slow shutter speed.
2. Efficient Styling and Composition: These are absolute keys when shooting food photography. When you build your set, it’s tedious to keep putting down and picking up your camera. A tripod gives you more time to style and compose your food photos.
3. Consistency and Precision: These are crucial in making commercial food ads. A good trick is to mark your tripod’s placement on the ground with a piece of tape. Then you can always get the shot from the same position. It’s impossible to achieve consistent positioning without a tripod.

3 Tripod Features for Food Photography

What a food photographer needs in a tripod differs from what a landscape or portrait photographer needs. Here are three specific features to look for.

1. Stability to Handle Setup Weight

The most crucial requirement is stability. You need a tripod that can handle the weight of your food photography camera, food lens, and other items like a bracket or extension arm.

So ensure it has a high “payload.” This is how much weight a tripod can withstand.

Most sturdy tripod starts at around the $100 mark. Any tripod that costs less likely won’t be a good investment. On the plus side, once you invest in a sturdy tripod, it will last you decades.

2. Adjustability for Overhead Food Photography

When shopping for a tripod, look for one with both adjustable height and orientation. This means it needs to have a center column you can move.

For overhead food photography, you need a tripod with a horizontal arm. Sometimes the arm is the central column. Other tripods have a separate segment that works as an arm for horizontal mounting.

You need to know about overhead shots with food photography. And you also need to consider flat lay photography techniques. We have an e-book, Flat Lay Photo Fever, if you want to learn more.

3. Rubber Feet and Heft to Prevent Slippage

Make sure your tripod has rubber feet to avoid slipping. And your tripod must be heavier than any combination of camera and lens you put on it. It also helps to have a hook or center column to hang objects to offset weight.

It’s usually worth disregarding cheaper, lightweight tripods for something more substantial. It does you no good saving money on a poor-quality tripod only to have it topple over and break your camera.

3 Essential Parts of a Tripod

There are three important parts of tripods that you must examine closely before buying.

1. The Central Column

The column is the middle part that rises up and down according to the height you need. There are three types of columns that you can choose from.

A quick-release column can move up and down by loosening a single knob. This is usually the cheapest option. It’s better for photographers out in the field rather than studio photographers.

The better ones have a cushioned release. It prevents your camera from jostling about when you move the column.

But the best column choice for food photography is a geared center column. It lets you move your camera up and down to a precise height. It’s a convenient feature to have if your camera and lens combo is quite heavy.

2. The Head

The head is the part you attach your camera to. You need to buy this separately when choosing professional tripods. For food photography, these are the two types of tripod heads that you should be looking at:

• Ball Head: This comes in several different designs. But they all stabilize your camera and provide faster, more accurate rotation. A ball lock is an essential adjustment on this type of head. It keeps the ball from moving around when you want it to stay in one position. Make sure yours has a single twist knob so your camera doesn’t drop or slip.

• Pan-tilt Head: This lets you turn or rotate your camera left and right or up and down. You can also tilt your camera’s horizontal line. It helps you get the horizon in the image straight, so you don’t have to straighten the image in post-processing. The pan-tilt head is recommended for food photography if you have the budget. It’s not as quick to use as a ball head. But it’s well-suited for still life photography.

3. The Legs

Tripod legs extend out like old telescopes. Most are aluminum, but the best ones are typically carbon fiber.

The legs keep your whole setup sturdy. How far the legs can splay out depends on the tripod, so you should check this information before deciding on a model.

They could be as short as 3 feet (less than 1 m). But some can extend up to 5 feet (1.5 m) or even more. Look for the tallest option you can find. Then you can take overhead flat lay shots without any issues.

Tripod legs also have different locking mechanisms. Most of them have flip locks with tabs for securing sections into place. Others have twist locks that you need to tighten after adjusting the height.

The best are flip locks since they take only a second to tighten.

3 Tripod Accessories for Food Photography

Here are three tripod accessories to buy for the best food images.

1. Overhead Lateral Arm

This accessory is a must-have for food photography. Most food photos are overhead shots, for which this arm is the perfect tool.

You attach a lateral arm directly to your tripod for overhead images. Some tripods have a center column that will flip out and allow you to do this. But most of the time, you must buy a separate arm.

We recommend the Manfrotto 131D Side Arm.

2. L-Bracket

An L-bracket allows you to change your orientation between horizontal and vertical. This is important if you want to take overhead shots. Most pros take food pictures in landscape orientation. But interactive web design demands images shot in portrait.

If you are shooting for client websites, you will likely need to do it in both orientations. An L-bracket will allow you to do so.

We recommend 3 Legged Thing’s Zayla, a dedicated camera L-bracket.

3. Sandbags

Your tripod should have a high payload and be able to bear the weight of your camera. But you might have to provide a counterbalance with a sandbag. You can also use sandbags at the bottom of the legs to stabilize your tripod.

You can buy sandbags for photography online or at a camera store. As for the sand itself, you can buy sand meant for children’s sandboxes at most hardware stores.

Conclusion: The Best Tripod For Food Photography

The best tripod for food photography allows you to work in various locations. It helps you achieve a variety of shots to make the food look fantastic. And it should provide stability and reliability.

All the tripods in our list tick all those boxes. And we’ve included different types of tripods to help you find the perfect tripod for you. But the Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP is the best tripod for food photos. It’s strong, reliable, and gives you excellent versatility.

The panning head gives you excellent camera control when mounted. And the price is more than reasonable. Food photographers won’t regret buying this one. Also, don’t forget our fantastic Edible Images e-book. It’s the complete guide to delectable food photography.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Tripod For Food Photography

Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP

Vanguard Alta Pro 263AP

Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 4-Section Tripod

Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 4-Section Tripod

K&F Concept 94 Tripod

K&F Concept 94 Tripod

Having said that, many of our suggestions also serve well in a whole range of photographic settings. After all, not many of us have the luxury of specializing in just one type of photography. Our top pick for food photography is the Fujifilm XT-5. It combines a light, compact body with outstanding autofocus.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Camera For Food Photography

Fujifilm X-T5

Fujifilm X-T5

Canon EOS R50

Canon EOS R50

Nikon Z5

Nikon Z5

What Is the Best Camera for Food Photography?

Before we look at our choices in detail, here is a summary of our picks.

Our Top Pick

Fujifilm X-T5

Fujifilm X-T5

• Compact yet stylish body with classic retro design
• 40.2 MP resolution from an APS-C sensor
• Stunning 160 MP images with Pixel Shift Multi-Shot mode
• 6.2K video with incredible color and definition
• ISO expandable down to 64

Best for Beginners

Canon EOS R50

Canon EOS R50

• Compact and easy to use
• 24.2 MP resolution with natural color rendition
• 12 fps burst rate with the mechanical shutter
• 4K video shot at 30 fps
• Articulating touchscreen with vertical mode

Best Intermediate Camera

Nikon Z5

Nikon Z5

• Compact body with a full-frame sensor
• 24.3 MP resolution with excellent dynamic range
• 4K video at 30 fps and Full HD video at 60 fps
• 5-axis image stabilization
• Built-in creative shooting modes and effects

Best Micro Four Thirds Camera

Olympus OM System OM-5

Olympus OM System OM-5

• Compact and lightweight camera body with retro design
• Built-in image stabilization for sharper shots
• Fast and accurate 121-point AF system with focus targeting
• 4K video recording at 30 fps
• HDR mode with no post-production required

Highest Resolution Sensor

Sony a7R IV

Sony a7R IV

• Incredible 60 MP resolution from the full-frame sensor
• Pixel Shift mode gives you 241 MP images
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC wireless connectivity options
• 10 fps burst with AF support at full resolution
• Low ISO setting of 50

Best Full Frame for Video

Panasonic Lumix DC-S5

Panasonic Lumix DC-S5

• 96 MP images in High-Resolution mode
• Exquisite 4K at 60 fps with 10-bit color
• 180 fps slow-motion recording with Full HD quality
• Image stabilization provides 6.5 stops of compensation
• 14-plus stops of dynamic range in V-Gamut mode

Best DSLR Camera

Canon EOS 90D

Canon EOS 90D

• 32.5 MP resolution from an APS-C sensor
• 45-point cross-type focus system with eye detection
• 10 fps burst with full AF support
• 4K video recording
• Wi-Fi enabled and has webcam functionality

7 Best Cameras for Food Photography

Now, starting with our top pick, let’s look at the cameras we recommend.

1. Fujifilm X-T5

Brand	Brand Fujifilm
Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Fujifilm X
Megapixels	Megapixels 40 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 425
Minimum ISO (Native)	Minimum ISO (Native) 125
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 12,800
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 15 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

×

Fujifilm X-T5

Amazon.com

$2,278.00

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The Fujifilm X-T5 is one of the most impressive mirrorless cameras on the market. And it’s also an incredible choice for food photography. The image quality is outstanding. You have advanced features for even better results. And it’s great for video too. 

It has an APS-C sensor, so you get a compact camera body. It’s also a stylish retro design, echoing Fujifilm’s analog past.  

But despite the smaller sensor size, you get a 40.2 MP resolution. That’s incredible for an APS-C sensor. And the images look sensational. You get sharp details and vibrant yet true-to-life color rendition. It will capture restaurant dishes or food market stalls with wonderful vitality.

The standard low ISO setting is 125, which isn’t bad. But you can expand that to 64 ISO for even better image quality.

And if 40.2 MP isn’t enough, you can take things to another level with the Pixel Shift Multi-Shot mode. The camera takes several exposures and composites them together to create one 160 MP image. You need a tripod to get the best results with this mode. But the images are jaw-dropping.

The 5-axis image stabilization is another useful feature for food photography. It stabilizes the camera, preventing motion blur. This allows you to work in lower light without a tripod and still capture sharp images. It’s great if you’re shooting in moody restaurants or night markets. 

With a 15 fps burst rate with the mechanical shutter, you can shoot chefs in action. You also have a 20 fps burst with the electronic shutter, but 15 is sufficient for most food shoots.

The Fujifilm X-T5 is also great for food-related videography. You can record video with a stunning 6.2K resolution with 4:2:2 10-bit color. That’s pro-level video footage. And it has all the necessary ports for external equipment, like microphones and camera screens. 

2. Canon EOS R50

Brand	Brand Canon
Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon RF
Megapixels	Megapixels 24 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 651
Minimum ISO (Native)	Minimum ISO (Native) 100
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 32,000
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 12 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

×

Canon EOS R50

Adorama

$549.00

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Amazon.com

$549.00 $679.99

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Amazon.it

$749.00

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Amazon.de

$829.00 $949.00

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Amazon.ca

$899.00

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Amazon.co.uk

$999.00 $1,099.99

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Amazon.es

$1,019.00 $1,149.00

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Amazon.com.au

$1,138.91 $1,399.00

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The Canon EOS R50 is compact, easy to use, and delivers fantastic results. That’s why it’s the best food photography camera for beginners. 

The R50 has a compact camera body housing an APS-C CMOS sensor. The sensor has a 24.2 MP resolution, which is great for beginners. The detail and colors are excellent and offer perfect clarity. And you’ll see a big improvement from smartphone cameras. 

Although it’s a beginner’s camera, you can still shoot RAW. The file sizes are bigger than JPEG images. But RAW files give you more options if you want to edit your images using photo editing software.

You can use the 12 fps burst mode to capture the hustle and bustle of a hectic food market. That’s with the mechanical shutter. But you can also use the electronic shutter if you need the faster 15 fps burst mode.

With 4K video recording, it’s a great camera for food vloggers. It shoots at 30 fps, so you get smooth footage that looks great on social media or YouTube. You can also shoot 120 fps slow-motion footage in Full HD quality.

The fully articulating screen is helpful for shooting at different angles, especially with video. And there’s a vertical mode, which helps you create optimized content for social media platforms like Instagram.

The Canon EOS R50 has an excellent range of semi-automatic modes. These help you learn and master the best food photography settings. That’s why it’s the best beginner’s camera for food photography.

3. Nikon Z5

Brand	Brand Nikon
Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Nikon Z
Megapixels	Megapixels 24 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 273
Minimum ISO (Native)	Minimum ISO (Native) 100
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 51,200
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 4.5 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3.2"

×

Nikon Z5

Amazon.co.uk

$915.00 $994.00

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Amazon.com

$996.95

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Amazon.de

$1,120.94 $1,549.00

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Amazon.es

$1,189.00 $1,399.00

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Amazon.it

$1,249.00 $1,549.00

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B&H

$1,296.95 $1,396.95

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Amazon.ca

$1,498.29

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Amazon.sg

$1,804.00

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Amazon.com.au

$1,973.00

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Amazon.sa

$3,999.00

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KEH

(second hand)

$1,067.91

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The Nikon Z5 is a brilliant full-frame mirrorless camera. It’s one of the most compact full-frame cameras on the market. But it’s still packed with excellent features that food photographers will love.

The full-frame sensor gives you a 24.3 MP resolution. That might not sound spectacular for a full-frame model. But the image quality is sharp and vibrant. And the larger pixel size gives you a better dynamic range, which is great for photographing food in different environments.

Thanks to the built-in image stabilization, you can work without a tripod more often. It gives you 5-axis stabilization, allowing you to shoot from hand in low-light situations. That means you don’t need as much equipment in your camera backpack.

Food videographers will like the 4K video recording. The max frame rate for 4K is 30 fps, which is smooth enough for most. But you can switch to Full HD resolution for a faster 60 fps frame rate. That’s great for recording chefs chopping or stir-frying.

The Nikon Z5 has creative features built in. There are modes for focus-shift and time-lapse photography. And you can apply creative filters in-camera. That saves you time in post-processing. You can send your images directly to social media. And even that’s easy, thanks to the camera’s Wi-Fi connectivity.

4. Olympus OM System OM-5

Brand	Brand Olympus
Sensor Format	Sensor Format Micro Four Thirds
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Micro 4/3
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 121
Minimum ISO (Native)	Minimum ISO (Native) 200
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 30 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

×

Olympus OM System OM-5

Focus Camera

$999.99 $1,199.99

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Adorama

$999.99

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Amazon.es

$1,173.36 $1,299.00

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Amazon.com

$1,199.99

Buy Now!

Amazon.co.uk

$1,547.59

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Amazon.de

$1,768.81

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Amazon.it

$1,999.00

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Amazon.sg

$2,124.00

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Amazon.com.au

$3,091.19

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Amazon.sa

$7,623.17

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The Olympus OM System OM-5 is an incredible camera for food photography. It’s super small and compact. But it’s bursting with advanced features for photography and videography.

As a Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera, the OM-5 is very compact and lightweight. It also has a trendy retro-style body design, which is all the rage right now.

Although small, the MFT sensor gives you a 20 MP resolution. That might not be groundbreaking, but it’s a big jump from smartphone camera quality. 

You also have a High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode built-in. The camera can composite three to seven images, all with different exposure settings. It creates the HDR image in-camera, so you don’t need editing software.

Shooting in low light isn’t a problem, thanks to the image stabilization system. You can shoot with slower shutter speeds and lower ISO settings without the risk of blurry images. That means you can work more often without a tripod.

The autofocus system is incredible for a camera of this size. It uses a 121-point phase detection system. And it gives you accurate focus even with moving subjects. You can also use the Focus Targeting modes for better results in specific situations.

The Olympus OM System OM-5 also has excellent video features. You can record 4K footage at 30 fps. You can record vertical videos for social media. And the body has ports for microphones and other accessories. It’s one of the best Olympus cameras. And it’s a great choice for food photographers.

5. Sony a7R IV

Brand	Brand Sony
Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Sony FE
Megapixels	Megapixels 61.2 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 425
Minimum ISO (Native)	Minimum ISO (Native) 100
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 32,000
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 10 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

×

Sony a7R IV

Amazon.com

$2,998.00 $3,199.99

Buy Now!

KEH

(second hand)

$2,481.26

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The Sony a7R IV offers astonishing specifications for a full-frame mirrorless camera. It has a 60 MP sensor with full-frame autofocus. And if that’s not enough detail for your billboard-sized food pics, it has a Pixel Shift mode for tripod shooting. This bumps the pixel count up to 241 MP.

You can enhance picture quality further by expanding the ISO range. When expanded, you can set the camera to 50 ISO. As you can imagine, 50 ISO and 60 MP give you jaw-dropping images.

It is also superbly equipped for connectivity with up to 5 GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, and FTP for file transfer. And two card slots boost its pro credentials, as does the optional battery grip.

The a7R IV is an impressive camera all around. Its excellent high ISO performance is another great feature for food photography.

Sony has now released the Sony a7R V. They have improved some specifications. But we think the a7R IV still deserves its place on this list. The newer version is also more expensive, so the a7R IV offers better value for money.

6. Panasonic Lumix S5

Brand	Brand Panasonic
Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Leica L
Megapixels	Megapixels 24.2 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 225
Minimum ISO (Native)	Minimum ISO (Native) 100
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 51,200
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 7 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

×

Panasonic Lumix DC-S5

Amazon.com

$1,197.99 $1,799.99

Buy Now!

Adorama

$1,197.99

Buy Now!

B&H

$1,697.99 $1,997.99

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The Panasonic Lumix S5 is ideal for photographing food. It’s lightweight and robust. And it’s one of the best low-light cameras on the market.

The 24.2 MP image resolution is perfectly respectable. But the Lumix S5 has a killer spec combination. It has a solid ISO range, advanced autofocus, and reliable image stabilization.

The top ISO setting is 51,200. And noise becomes a problem as you near the limit. But you can still capture usable images throughout the ISO range. You also get V-Gamut mode for a 14-plus stop dynamic range.

The AF system has head, face, and eye detection, making your life much easier. And the 5-axis in-body stabilization system is second to none in this price range. It gives you an extra 6.5 stops to play with, allowing slower shutter speeds. This is perfect for low-light shooting.

The Lumix S5 also has great video capture and burst mode. If you’re a videographer or vlogger lacking light, it’s one of the best cameras for low-light shooting.

7. Canon EOS 90D

Brand	Brand Canon
Sensor Format	Sensor Format APS-C
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF/EF-S
Megapixels	Megapixels 33 MP
In-body Stabilization	In-body Stabilization
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 45
Minimum ISO (Native)	Minimum ISO (Native) 100
Maximum ISO (Native)	Maximum ISO (Native) 25,600
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 10 fps
Video	Video
Screen Size	Screen Size 3"

×

Canon EOS 90D

Amazon.com

$1,199.00

Buy Now!

KEH

(second hand)

$929.75

Buy Now!

The Canon EOS 90D remains one of the best APS-C cameras there is. DSLRs might be on the way out soon. But the 90D still competes with its mirrorless counterparts. It has excellent features, and it delivers results food photographers will appreciate.

The APS-C sensor has an impressive 32.5 MP resolution. Not many crop-sensor cameras have that kind of power. You can shoot with a 100 ISO setting. And the DIGIC 8 processor helps produce top results shot after shot.

With a 45-point cross-type AF system, you get excellent focusing for food photography. And the eye-detection AF features helps you shoot human subjects, whether that’s chefs in the kitchen or bakers in the bakery.

You also get a handy 10 fps burst mode, which is quick for a DSLR. The burst also gets full support from the autofocus, so you can snap sharp action shots.

It’s also one of the best DSLR cameras for video. You can use it for high-quality 4K video recording. And you can shoot 120 fps for slow-motion vids in Full HD.

The Canon EOS 90D is a well-rounded machine you can use for food photography and many other styles. The Wi-Fi connectivity and rotating screen are two more handy features. We haven’t covered everything great about this camera. But it’s well worth looking into if you want a reliable, high-performance APS-C camera.

What to Consider When Buying a Camera for Food Photography

1. Sensor Size

Sensor size is the first thing to consider when you’re on the hunt for a new camera. Will you buy a camera with a cropped sensor, or will you invest in a full-frame sensor?

Your budget might be the biggest factor in determining your choice. Another factor might be if you’re shooting for a professional agency. Many agencies won’t consider any photo shot without a full-frame camera. So it’s best to do your research.

A cropped sensor is cheaper for the manufacturer to make. This makes good digital cameras available to various consumers at every price point. These are often referred to as “prosumer” cameras.

You can take great pictures with a crop-sensor device. The issue is that your camera and lenses will behave differently with a cropped sensor than with a full frame.

A full-frame camera matches a traditional film camera’s 35mm cropped standard. It has a sensor size of 24 x 36mm. A cropped sensor is smaller than this. It doesn’t match most lenses, so the final images look different.

2. Crop Factor

Every camera has a crop factor. This number describes how much the device crops your image compared to the standard 35mm. Most full-frame cameras tend to have a crop factor of 1x. Others, like the Canon 1Dx, come with a 1.3x crop factor.

For example, I started shooting food photos with an APS-C Canon EOS camera with a 1.6x crop factor. This means you multiply the focal length of your lens by 1.6. And it gives you the equivalent focal length it would look like on a full-frame camera.

A 50mm lens works wonderfully to shoot food on a full-frame camera. But on an APS-C Canon Rebel, a 50mm lens behaves more like an 80mm.

Many food bloggers recommend the 50mm as a great all-around food photography lens. But this isn’t necessarily true, especially if you have a crop-sensor camera.

3. File Size and RAW Shooting

These days, most digital cameras produce large file sizes. But file size is something to be aware of if you ever want to print your images.

If you’re a food blogger, you often shoot images for the web only. But what if you want to publish a cookbook one day or license your food photos through stock agencies? Make sure that your camera can accommodate large file sizes. This usually means at least 3000 pixels on the short side.

Also, be sure that the camera you choose can shoot RAW. Some photographers start shooting JPEGs and then move on to shooting RAW when they feel they have developed their skills. But I urge everyone to start shooting RAW and learn to edit as soon as possible.

RAW files are basically digital negatives. They can withstand endless editing without data loss, unlike a JPEG file. The quality of a JPEG file is downgraded with every edit.

They also pack thousands of times more information and color luminance. This gives you endless freedom in how you approach your post-processing. Unless food photography is strictly a hobby, ensure that the camera you choose can shoot RAW files.

4. ISO Level

When you shoot food photography, you should be working on a tripod most of the time. But there will be cases where you need to handhold your camera. Instances would be shooting food photography in a restaurant or on location at a vineyard or a farm.

This is when your ISO becomes very important. It’s best to have a camera that can handle a relatively high noise level. But despite advances in camera technology, using a high ISO does degrade image quality.

If you’re shooting in the scenarios mentioned above, test how far you can push your ISO before the shoot. Post-processing programs like Photoshop or noise-reduction software can reduce noise in an image. But they cannot completely rescue an image of poor quality.

5. Number of Focus Points

This is one of the biggest factors that influenced my decision about which camera to get when making new purchases for food photography.

Some photographers focus on using manual mode. I have a less-than-perfect vision, so I must rely on automatic focus. Plus, it’s easy to miss focus completely, even if you’re off just a tad while engaging manual focus.

Let’s say that you have a camera with only nine focus points. The odds are that there will be many times that you can’t get the focus point where you need it. This can be very frustrating.

What Is the Best Lens for Food Photography?

There is a wide variety of lenses you can use for food photography. Some foodies use prime lenses for pristine sharpness. Others use zoom lenses for more versatility. When it comes to prime vs zoom, it’s up to you.

50mm lenses, or nifty-fifties, are good lenses for food photography when you’re starting out. They are versatile, allowing you to shoot wide or closely framed shots. And they usually have a fast maximum aperture. An f/1.8 aperture is good, but something like f/1.4 is great if you want a shallow depth of field.

• Canon RF 50mm f/1.8 STM 

You can also use telephoto prime lenses. You can try an 80mm lens for a tighter composition. Or you can even use a focal length up to 100 or 110mm. These are often referred to as portrait lenses. But they are great for food photography too.

• Fujifilm XF 80mm f/2.8 R LM OIS
• Canon RF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM

When it comes to zoom lenses, a 24-70mm is a great lens for food photography. It gives you excellent shot variety. You can use it for wide-angle shots that include a wider section of the scene. Or you can zoom in for accurate, detailed shots.

• Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L IS USM
• Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S

If you want to learn more about the best lenses for food photography, click the link to see the full in-depth article. 

Conclusion: Best Camera for Food Photography

If you want to photograph food professionally and have the budget, buy a full-frame camera. You can even buy a used one from a reputable dealer if you can’t afford to buy a new one.

If you’re new to food photography or shooting for your blog or website, you may want to start with a budget-friendly crop-sensor camera. You can upgrade to full frame as your skills improve and when you decide the direction you want to take your photography in.

And if you’re shooting in-studio, you might want to have two cameras with you in case one of them malfunctions. This is a very real possibility that I’ve seen in the past as a photographer’s assistant. Nothing is worse than having your camera stop working while a whole team of people depends on you to get the job done.

The Fujifilm XT-5 is our top pick for a fantastic camera that ticks all the boxes. It’s affordable, works well in low light, and captures fantastic details. Plus, it’s lightweight for on-the-go jobs and overhead flat-lay shots.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Camera For Food Photography

Fujifilm X-T5

Fujifilm X-T5

Nikon D3400

Nikon D3400

Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Early in our food photography careers, we used cheap vinyl backdrops at our home studio. But it didn’t take long to discover they were too flimsy and often reflected too much light.

After a while, we gave up using artificial backdrops altogether. And we used real ones instead. Our workshop has all sorts of backgrounds, like aged wood, tiles, and even heavy marble blocks.

We’re satisfied using real, natural backgrounds for our photography. But they’re cumbersome and take up too much space.

We Highly Recommend

V-FLAT WORLD - Duo Board

Looking for a portable and realistic alternative to traditional backdrops for your product and food photography? Look no further than V-Flat World’s Duo Boards! With two unique designs, easy setup, and stain-resistant surface, these boards are a must-have for any serious content creator.

V Flat World Backdrops Overview

V-Flat World is the leading supplier of V-flats, which are technically large foldable “bounce boards.” These light modifiers have a white side reflecting light and a black side absorbing light. Photography enthusiasts use them for various purposes, from portraiture to still life photography.

But V-Flat World offers more than V-flats. Their other popular product line is Duo Boards. They’re artificial backdrops for product and food photography. Each panel has two sides. All you have to do is flip the board to change your background.

These boards are ideal for flat lays. But you can also set them up as a floor and wall to create realistic lifestyle settings. So if you’re looking for a location with an incredible backdrop but can’t find one, these boards are an excellent alternative.

V-Flat Duo Boards Users

So who will find these most useful? Duo boards are pretty small (even the 30 x 40-inch options). So they’re perfect for a home studio with limited space.

But of course, the Duo Boards aren’t just for home use. V-Flat World was also thoughtful enough to design a travel bag for these backdrops, making them easy to transport for location shoots.

The Duo Boards’ high quality also makes them suitable for studio work. After testing these backdrops, we know they’ll survive the rigors in a professional setting for years.

In short, the portable Duo Boards can cater to the needs of anyone—from still-life enthusiasts to expert photographers.

Key Features of Duo Boards

Let’s take a closer look at Duo Boards and what they offer.

Size Options

Duo Boards come in two sizes—24 x 24 inches (61 x 61 cm) and 30 x 40 inches (76 x 102 cm). If you exclusively work with small products, then the smaller version is perfect for you. And if you photograph large objects a lot, you can always buy the 30 x 40-inch one instead.

Textures

Printed at 1000 dpi, these boards have hyper-realistic textures and a matte finish that minimizes light glare. So far, V-Flat World offers about 18 double-sided boards. They have various surfaces—everything from concrete to wood.

Spillproof Material

V-Flat World claims these backdrops can take all sorts of spills, which is great news for food and beverage photographers. You can easily clean them with soap and water without worrying about stains!

Duo Board Legs

The Duo Boards come with stands that allow you to set up the backdrops like a wall and a floor. They’re made of hard plastic and effortlessly hold even the 30 x 40-inch panels.

Real-World Use

So far, everything we’ve mentioned about the background panels is already listed on V-Flat World’s website. But we know you’re more curious about how the product performs in real life.

To answer your burning questions, we did a photoshoot involving messy foods. We wanted to see if the boards would meet the demands of professional food photography.

A Straight-on Shot

We wanted to try the Duo Board’s stands for our first shoot, so we went for a straight-on angle.

Using the leg stands was easy. All we had to do was snap them onto either side of the Duo Board we wanted to use as a wall.

The plastic legs have recesses that allow you to slide another panel flat—under the backdrop already standing up.

The recesses are a simple design feature from V-Flat World that we genuinely appreciate. Those small gaps are enough to ensure the backdrops don’t move around when we take pictures.

We wanted to see how the boards would perform in soft, moody lighting. So we set up a strip box on one side of the Duo Box and added a “flag” in front of the flash unit. It sounds a bit technical, but the flag was just a foam board with the black side limiting the light that reached our background.

Even a complex lighting setup didn’t produce harsh hot spots on the Duo Boards. As you can see in our final photo, the panels worked as advertised. Our setting looks so authentic. It looks like we took it in an actual location.

We were also quite impressed with the realistic texture on these backgrounds from V-Flat World. Both the boards we used still appeared quite detailed, whether lying flat or standing up. And even though the wall was blurry, it produced a pleasing bokeh that enhanced the aesthetic of the picture.

An Angled or Flat Lay Shot

Using tabletop backgrounds for straight-on shots is one thing. But it often gets a bit complicated when it comes to an overhead or angled picture. You’ll quickly see the difference between well-made backdrops and bargain options.

Since some companies make backgrounds of low-cost materials, they usually reflect too much light. So you end up with ghastly hot spots and highlights that make your picture unusable. It’s a terrible flaw if you want to achieve professional results.

V-Flat World makes its boards from better quality materials. So we decided to test them and see if they produce highlights when shooting at an angle. To add to the challenge, we used a bare flash, which created intense bursts of light.

We chose the French Clay side of the Duo Board for our flat lay and angled shot. Since it had a lighter tone, it had the potential to create even harsher hot spots.

Any surface produces unattractive highlights with a bright output from the bare flash. But we were pretty surprised that the matte surface of the Duo Board dispersed the flash’s light evenly.

To even out the shadows, we used a bounce board on the other side of the fruit tart we were shooting. The white side of the panel reflected the beam from the flash and softened the harsh shadows the strobe produced.

The light produced more hot spots on the fork but not on the Duo Board’s surface.

The combination of the Duo Board and the bounce cards made the images look magnificent straight out of the camera. In contrast, a cheaper backdrop probably would have forced us to look for other angles to avoid hot spots.

Cleaning the Duo Boards

For this review, we intentionally used messy foods to test the quality of the backgrounds. We placed onion rings and juicy fruits on them to see if they’d leave marks.

Examining the boards themselves, we knew they’d easily repel liquids. The foods we used were greasy and juicy, but we weren’t surprised that they didn’t leave any stains on the boards.

We cleaned the boards with the large microfiber towel in the backdrop kit. According to the instructions, we weren’t supposed to use chemicals when wiping the background. So we created a soap-water solution and sprayed it on the board surface. After a wipe or two, the panels looked brand new again!

Storing the Backdrops

The boards are wide, but they’re also thin. So it was easy for us to stack them together in a small space.

You can also use the optional bag to store up to five Duo Boards. We like using it because it has padded compartments. It ensures the backdrops won’t get damaged during transport. It also features wide pockets that let us store the stands and other accessories.

The bag costs more than $100 (USD), which we think is a bit too expensive. But if you travel a lot to do photography, it’s the best storage option you have. It offers a convenient way to store and transport your backdrops.

Alternatives to Duo Boards

Perhaps one of Duo Board’s biggest competitors is Replica Surfaces. It’s similar in quality and price. But the difference is that Replica surfaces aren’t double-sided. Regardless, they’re one of the more popular background options out there and they offer dozens of patterns to choose from.

If you want a cheaper alternative to both Duo boards and Replica Surfaces, we suggest getting a Snapit backdrop instead. They have limited options when it comes to patterns. But they offer kits that include two double-sided panels (four different backgrounds) at an affordable price.

Verdict

V-Flat World’s Duo Boards are on the higher end of the spectrum for the price you pay. But it’s on par with the other premium-quality backdrops on the market. And since it’s double-sided, that means you’re technically buying two backgrounds for cheaper.

So if you’re serious about food and product photography, this backdrop system is a worthy investment. Based on our experience, we certainly wish we had bought these boards from the start instead of going through tons of cheap options that didn’t work.

After testing V-Flat World’s boards, we’re confident they will be a staple in our studio. In fact, we’re now even looking at new backgrounds we want to add to our collection!

Scores

We Highly Recommend

V-FLAT WORLD - Duo Board

Looking for a portable and realistic alternative to traditional backdrops for your product and food photography? Look no further than V-Flat World’s Duo Boards! With two unique designs, easy setup, and stain-resistant surface, these boards are a must-have for any serious content creator.

To get ahead, you need food photography that will get people’s eyes popping and mouths watering. This means developing your food styling skills.

Food photographers always work with a food stylist on professional shoots. Food stylists have specific knowledge of getting the best out of food to make it look great in front of the camera.

Here are some food styling tricks you can borrow to make your creations look extra delicious.

Realistic Prop Ice

DomeStar Fake Ice Cubes

Looking for inspiration to take your food styling to the next level? Try using high-quality, super realistic fake ice cubes to add a touch of elegance to your food photography.

1. Food Styling: Always Have More Than You Need

When shopping for a food photography shoot, be sure to buy more than you think you need. Food dries out, melts, goes brown, or begins to look unappealing faster than you might think.

Having spares of every ingredient means you can style and restyle when you need to. If a cut apple starts to go brown, grab another one. If your salad starts to wilt, replace it with new leaves.

When it comes to styling the plate, you may also need many items to fill the frame. This typically happens when shooting fruits and vegetables. If you’re using garnishes for meat or fish, they can quickly lose their vitality.

Having extra food also allows for mistakes or accidents. If you only have enough ingredients for one shot, you’ll be in trouble if there’s a mishap or error when shooting. More than you need can quickly turn into just enough if things don’t go to plan.

2. Use Fake Ice to Make Life Easier

When shooting for your blog, you can use real ice. But for food styling purposes, fake ice cubes are more convenient.

Real ice looks white instead of clear and shiny. And, of course, it melts very quickly. This can create a hassle for you when you’re shooting.

Beverage photography can take a long time due to the difficulty of managing reflections in the glassware. You may have to use stand-ins. Or switch out your drinks several times to get the lighting right. By the time you’re set up, your ice cubes have turned to water.

Cheap artificial ice looks fake. Investing in some good quality fake ice cubes can make a big difference when photographing beverages. And you can work with these simple tricks of food photography for many years.

If you decide you want to splash out for some excellent fake ice, you can buy them online.

3. Use Fake Drinks to Keep the Budget Low

Chances are high that when you see a glass of white or red wine in a food editorial, it’s not actual wine in there. It’s another food styling trick.

Purchasing real wine adds unnecessary expenses to a food styling budget. And there is an easy and cheap way to fake it.

There are problems with shooting the real thing, too. For example, red wine often shoots too dark. So food stylists often mix a few drops of red food colouring into the water as a substitute.

As for white wine, a few drops of a product called Kitchen Bouquet can make a convincing chardonnay.

Kitchen Bouquet is used for browning and seasoning meat. It is a liquid product composed of caramel color and seasonings. It is an American product, but most countries have an equivalent. Soy sauce also works very well if you can’t find such a product.

Add it to the water drop by drop until you get a realistic shade. A little goes a long way.

When styling coffee or tea, you may want to show steam coming off the top of the beverage. You can do this in Photoshop. But it’s easier to create the look of steam in-camera.

The important thing to know is that you can only create this effect when using backgrounds that are on the darker side. Otherwise, the steam won’t show.

Put a smaller cup or dish behind your subject. You will have to position your camera so it doesn’t show. This means you have to be shooting your scene straight on.

Boil some water in a kettle and when your camera is set up and ready to go, pour the boiling water into the cup behind your coffee or tea and take the picture.

4. Add Condensation on Glassware

Nothing makes a cold beverage look more refreshing than some condensation on the glass. Think of a mug of beer or a frosty cola with water beading on the glass.

You can spray the glass with some water to achieve this effect. But that won’t last too long.

A better approach is to work with a mixture of glycerin and water. Glycerin is a gel-like product that you can find in the beauty section of the drug store. Or you can try using corn syrup instead.

The ratio of glycerin to water will depend on how large you want the droplets. I find 50:50 to be a good start.

Mix the glycerin or corn syrup with water in a small spray bottle and spritz the mixture onto the glass. Use an eyedropper or a chopstick to put bigger droplets strategically. The mixture won’t evaporate or move when you’re trying to get your shot.

You can also use this trick to create water droplets on fruit that won’t evaporate within seconds as they would do with a spritz of water. The glycerin can be rinsed off with warm water.

5. Bring Your Meat and Fish Back to Life

Foods like steak, chicken breast, and even some vegetables look great with grill marks. It gives the impression that they have just come fresh off the barbecue.

When you see such items in magazine photos and advertisements, chances are they haven’t actually been barbecued. But have been prepared to look so by a food stylist.

There is an inexpensive and easy way to do this at home with a charcoal starter.

To create grill marks on steak or chicken, trim off any part of the meat that looks ragged and uneven. Then brush it with oil and cook it in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add some oil to keep the meat from sticking and encourage browning.

To get the food looking its best, you will have to undercook it. Once the meat has browned, move it to a baking sheet covered with aluminum foil.

At this point, if you have a kitchen torch, you can brown the edges where they would naturally be darker. Brown the surface of the meat if needed to look even and golden.

Take the charcoal starter and lightly press it into the meat to create the grill marks. Use a slight rocking motion to help you make even marks.

Be sure to space the marks out as evenly as possible to look realistic.

You might have to practice using the charcoal starter before you are satisfied with the results. Don’t press too hard. A light hand is all that you need.

Also, be sure to season the meat after it’s cooked, not before. Seasonings tend to burn when cooked in the pan. Brushing the meat with oil will keep it looking moist and appetising.

The oil will preserve the meat. If you are not using it right away, place it in a dish of oil. Otherwise, it will start to look unappetising very quickly.

This is called “holding”. You can wipe off the oil before you place the meat on set. And touch it up with a brush where needed.

You can also apply this grilling method to seafood and vegetables like zucchini.

But some of these items should be blanched rather than browned in the pan. For shrimp, put them on a wooden skewer and move them into simmering water for a couple of minutes until they turn a nice pink color.

Then dunk them in a bowl of ice water before removing them to a tray. This will stop the cooking process.

You can use the same process for zucchini or other vegetables.

6. Under Cook and Under Dress

A lot of the food you see in photographs is under-cooked. The poultry that looks so delicious in that advertisement would probably poison you if you ate it.

If you cooked it until properly done, the skin would wrinkle a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. Great food styling isn’t the same as great cooking.

When styling for a shoot, fresh vegetables are often blanched and barely cooked at all. They’re then dunked in an ice bath to bring out and preserve their vibrant colors.

Once you add a dressing to a salad, it will start to wilt immediately due to the acidity. For this reason, it’s best to add it at the last minute. And only add enough to make it glisten. You might even want to strategically brush it onto some of the leaves instead.

Similarly, sauces will also dry out or coagulate and quickly start to look unappetising. Add them only when you are ready to shoot and have decided on the placement of your composition. Make sure they’re not still too hot, though, or that will affect your main ingredient.

7. Build Your Burgers to Build Appeal

Burgers are among the most difficult items to style. They can look sloppy if you don’t take the time to “build” them properly or if you’re unsure what food styling tricks to apply.

Start by laying out all your ingredients and tools beforehand. Ensure your knife is very sharp and have a small pair of scissors on hand. Cook whatever meat or veggie patty you will be using in your burger beforehand.

The top and bottom buns should look as perfect as possible, without any dents. You don’t have to photograph the top and bottom of the same bun if you have bought a bag with several buns. Always choose the best looking items.

Trim any raggedy bits from the edge of the bun, if necessary.

Preserve your lettuce in a bath of ice water. This stops it from wilting before you can put it on your burger. When it’s ready to use, wipe off the excess water by putting it on a paper towel.

If you are using tomato and onion, cut pieces from the middle to get the cleanest and biggest cuts. If your knife is not sharp, you won’t get clean cuts. The liquid and seeds from the tomato will seep out, making a mess.

Tomatoes have a lot of liquid. So when you put your slices on the burger, be sure to not have them touching the bun. Otherwise, the bread will become wet and soggy very quickly.

Food stylists found the perfect way to prevent the tomato from ruining the burger. They tuck a small piece of cardboard or paper towel between the tomato and other burger elements.

For the cheese, squares of processed or ‘American’ cheese work best, as they melt very well. A bit of steam from a boiling kettle can encourage a bit of melting before you put it on your patty.

Finally, using an elevated surface like a cake stand will make building your burger easier. It allows you to see how the burger will look to the camera.

Not sure how to make your burger appear taller in your photos? Here is another food styling trick for you. Work with toothpicks to keep the layers stable. Put a few extra hidden layers of ingredients or cardboard pieces between the layers.

8. Style Your Soups

One problem with photographing soup is that it can look quite bland in the photos.

Food stylists found ways to make them prettier. For example, items like bread, croutons, or garnishes can enhance soups.

Chunks of fresh sourdough, slices of a French baguette, dinner rolls, and even the crumbs can really bring a food photo to life. It gives the viewer the sense that there is a wider story going on than what appears in the frame.

Bread in your soup will add texture and also create context by suggesting that it will be used to dip in the soup.

Place the bread where it won’t overpower your main subject, and don’t add pieces that are too big.

You can elevate a plain bowl of soup with a drizzle of cream and a sprinkling of chopped herbs or seasoning like black pepper.

You can sprinkle colorful peppercorns on the surface, along with a smattering of coarse salt to add texture and interest. A little goes a long way, and too much can look messy.

When using herbs to garnish your soups, choose the freshest possible and replace them as you shoot. They wilt or oxidise quickly.

While you’re shooting, you can keep your chosen sprigs of herbs in a bowl of ice water. When they are ready to use, pat them dry and place them onto your scene. You may have to change them out a few times as you go along.

To store, place cut herbs in a mason jar filled with cold water and cover them with a plastic bag. If you change the water every day, your herbs will last up to a week in the fridge.

9. Enhance Your Eggs

Styling eggs in the perfect way is tricky.

Use a preheated, dry, non-stick pan when frying eggs for your shoots. Don’t use oil to make sure you’ll get nice edges and bright yolks. Crack each egg individually into a fine-mesh sieve over a small bowl to drain, then gently transfer it into the pan. This will get rid of any water that can cause uneven edges.

Cook the egg slowly, over medium-low heat. Once the white is completely set, spray a spatula with a bit of cooking spray and transfer the egg carefully onto your plate.

To cook soft-boiled eggs, undercook them by a minute and then place them directly into a bowl of ice water.

When cooking soft-boiled eggs, you definitely want to cook more than you think you need. Once you’ve set up the shot, spoon some of the runny yolks from an extra egg onto the ‘hero’ egg. This is a great way to capture that runny yolk drip you see in soft boiled egg photos.

Sometimes an egg will sit too low in an egg cup. In that case, place a bit of tissue or paper towel in the bottom of the cup to prop up the egg and ensure that more of it is visible.

10. Style Breakfast Items and Baked Goods

Breakfast items come with their own set of challenges in food styling. Many of them are on the brown side and a bit dull-looking on their own. You can overcome this with supporting ingredients, garnishes, and the right composition.

When styling baked items like pancakes, waffles, and muffins, be sure to make ones that are a nice golden brown and are uniform in size. Use the elements that would accompany the food you are shooting—butter and maple syrup with pancakes, or milk with granola.

If possible, add some extra color and texture with some berries or other fruit. The more textures you have, the better. Sprinkling some cocoa nibs or hazelnuts on top is a great way to add texture.

One problem with using syrup in food styling is that it seeps into the food, making it soggy. When working with waffles and pancakes, you can prevent this problem by spraying them with Scotch Guard, a fabric and upholstery protector.

Of course, the food will not be edible if you use it.

11. Work With Dressings and Sauces

Once the dressing is added to a salad, the greens will begin to wilt due to the acidity. For this reason, you want to have your lighting and camera set up and ready to go first. Add the salad dressing at the very last moment.

Apply the dressing by drizzling it on with a small spoon or a squeeze bottle. There is no need to dress every leaf or component of the salad. You can also use a brush to add dabs of dressing or oil to emphasise the highlights.

Too much dressing on a salad can weigh it down.

12. Simple Tricks to Improve Ice Cream

Out of all the foods to shoot, ice cream can be the most difficult. In fact, there are food stylists who refuse to work with this cold dessert.

For some professional shoots, ice cream is replaced by mashed potatoes or icing sugar mixed with conditioner and food colouring. These won’t melt but will seem like real gelato in the images.

But you might not have the desire to use these techniques. So let’s look at how to make your ice cream last longer on set.

When working with scoops of ice cream, place several scoops individually on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Put the cookie sheet back into the freezer for about twenty minutes.

You can also freeze the bowls or cups you’ll use to plate the ice cream. This will give them a frosted or dewy look once you have them on set and they start to come to room temperature. If you don’t like how it looks, just wipe them down.

Always make sure that your set is ready before placing your ice cream. It won’t wait while you are tinkering with your props. However, sometimes melted ice cream can actually look appealing, depending on the shot.

If you’re shooting ice cream in a cone, place a piece of crumpled paper towel inside the cone to keep it from becoming soggy. Fill the cone evenly with ice cream, then place your nicest scoop on top.

Conclusion: Food Styling

As a food blogger, you have to do it all. You’re the photographer, the food stylist, and the prop stylist, not to mention the recipe developer. It can be a lot to juggle, and it takes time.

Being as prepared as possible, with everything laid out and organised will reduce stress and help you have a smooth workflow.

As you can see from these food styling tips and tricks, sometimes the dishes won’t be edible after the shoot. These days, the goal is to be as natural with food styling as possible. But getting the food to look its best often means using methods that leave the food inedible!

Check out our Edible Images ebook to create beautiful food photography that would make any mouth water! 

Sometimes the food speaks for itself. But you can use props to enhance your imagery. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of our 15 favourite food photography props for you here.

Rustic Aesthetic

BColorpic Wood-Texture Backdrop Set

Elevate your food photography props with versatile wood-texture backdrops. Choose from 8 patterns to showcase your dishes and bring your creations to life.

Where to Buy the Best Food Photography Props

Dishware, utensils, and cooking equipment are the most helpful food photo props. If this is what you’re after, go to your local cookery store.

These stores are the place to go shopping if you need brand new kitchenware. Shiny metal utensils can make great food props if that’s the look you want.  And If you know exactly what props you need, you can even order food photography props online (Amazon)!

But if you’re looking for something more retro or rustic, there are different avenues you can go down.

Second-Hand and Online Stores

If you want to find more unique items, take the time to explore antique stores other second-hand shops. Antique stores are excellent for old-fashioned pieces of cooking equipment and accessories. You find rare or obsolete props, which can help create fascinating food photos.

Garage sales, charity shops, and flea markets are also good places to find great props. It can take some patience and time to rummage through things. But you can find simple pieces and vintage food photography props that you won’t be able to buy in a modern cookery store.

Our Favourite Food Photography Props

Now that you know where to go shopping, we’ll give you tips for the best props to use. This list will show you what you need to make your food photography come alive—to evoke flavour and taste.

1. Present Food on Wooden Boards

A wooden cutting board has become a favourite prop for food photographers. Not only is it one of the most common pieces of equipment in the kitchen, but it also invokes the idea of authentic home cooking.

Buy a new wooden cutting board or find second-hand cutting boards showing signs of use. Age and knife grooves will give the feeling that you’re working with an experienced chef.

2. Use a Wood Surface Background

You can also use wood as your background surface. A wooden surface gives food a rustic feel. The grained texture places your imagery in settings like a farmhouse kitchen.

If you don’t have a wooden table, you can cheat. You can use large wooden chopping boards for close-ups. Or you can create a mini tabletop using planks of wood. You can paint or treat them with varnish to color or age them.

You can also buy wood imitations backdrops instead, or realistic duo boards with different textures on each side.

3. Experiment With Different Tablecloths

Go crazy with gingham. Gingham cloths have a simple design. But they’re also a powerful visual prop in food photography. They invoke feelings of summertime, picnics, and bake sales.

Go stylish with stripes. Striped tablecloths are great food photography props. The lines and angles of the pattern can help add dynamism to your food photography composition.

Use the power of plain. Try plain tablecloths if you want something more neutral. They are the perfect prop if you want to enhance food colors. And they work well if you want a minimalist food photography style.

4. Make Use of Marble Backgrounds

Many modern kitchens have marble work surfaces. If you’re shooting in one of these kitchens, that’s perfect. But you can also replicate the upscale look in a studio or at home.

You can buy marble cutting blocks from homeware stores. But, these can be pricey. A cheaper alternative is to use vinyl imitations. You can buy them by the roll. They’re an inexpensive and easy-to-use prop, providing texture and detail for food photography.

5. Use a Slate or Chalkboard Backdrop

Slate has become a favourite food photography prop. And you’ll often find dishes served on slate surfaces in modern restaurants. It can bring a solid tone and texture to your food photography.

But another great prop for food photography is a chalkboard. You can draw lines and pictures on it. Or you can write words and phrases. And the dark background can make colors pop in food flat lay photography.

6. Match the Food With Cooking Utensils

Kitchen utensils are the most commonly used food photography prop. The reasons are obvious. But the best way to use them is to match the food with the utensils used to make the food.

For cookies, you’ll use a rolling pin and cookie cutters. And for cakes, tarts and other baked goods, you’ll use baking tins. If you incorporate these props in your food photography, people will better understand the cooking or baking process.

7. Photograph Drinks in Correct Glassware

Every alcoholic drink has a specific glass it is meant to be served in. Most people will be familiar with stemmed wine glasses or champagne flutes. But you also have glass tumblers for whiskey and rounded glasses for brandy.

Using the correct glasses for each drink gives your photography an extra level of professionalism. If you’re working in product photography or advertising, this attention to detail is critical.

8. Pick Dishware to Elevate Presentation

Selecting dishware is one of the most important aspects of food photography. You need to choose plates or bowls that will enhance your food images.

Colorful food will jump off a white plate. But bowls with rich tones might set a warmer mood.

You can also choose between glossy and matte plates, big and small bowls, or square and round dishes for different types of presentation.

Plus, there is a whole art in how you display food on a plate with additional garnishes. Keep this in mind when selecting the look of your dishware.

9. Arrange Cutlery for a Dining Experience

Forks, knives, and spoons are other favourite food props. They create a link between the food and the viewer.

In the western world, culture dictates that we eat food with a knife and fork. But if you’re photographing Asian food, chopsticks also do a great job of representing the act of eating.

Add different styles of cutlery to your prop collection. Then, mix and match to create different dining experiences to draw the viewer in.

10. Display Infusions in Transparent Vessels

For teas and infusions, clear glass vessels make perfect props. They allow you to see the beautifully colored liquid within. You can capture the water as it changes color for some vibrant photos.

Clear glass cups and mason jars can also be used for mixing coffee and other colorful drinks. Show the color transformation when you add milk to coffee or mix other drinks. That’s a great moment to snap a photo.

11. Find and Use Mugs With Cool Designs

The first coffee of the day or hot chocolate by the fire can be intimate and comforting moments. And many people have their special mug.

You can buy sets of mugs and saucers for hot beverages. But these are often dull, lacking in personality. Use a cup from a second-hand shop or find a mug with a more distinct or personalised design.

12. Lay Out Napkins for Color and Patterns

Cloth napkins have become a regular part of our dining experience. But they also make an excellent prop for your food photos. You can use napkins to bring color and form to your photos, creating more visual interest.

Cloth napkins can blend with the colors of the food. Or they can add strong color contrast. The shapes and patterns can also bring structure to a food photo. You can collect many colors and styles, as they’re a versatile prop.

13. Use Parchment Paper to Imply Baking

Cooking parchment is a valuable item in the kitchen. It can be used for baking cookies or cakes. Or you can use it for baking meat or fish. As a food photography prop, it adds authenticity and texture.

In the photography studio, you might not even bake anything. But adding baking paper to your shots makes it look like you have baked goods in the oven.

14. Keep Things Together With Toothpicks

Toothpicks are an essential food photography prop. Food doesn’t always stay in place, while components can slip and slide over the plates. A well-placed toothpick will keep your culinary compositions in position.

15. Create Steam With Cotton Buds

Real food doesn’t stay hot for long. And with many food photoshoots, the food isn’t hot to start with. But there’s an industry trick that gives you steam no matter cold the food is.

Soak cotton buds in water and put them in the microwave. They only need a few seconds in there. Once they’re steaming, they’re ready to use. Place them wherever you need steam. Just make sure you hide them well.

Conclusion

There are many different food photography props to create unique and exciting food images. Experiment with backgrounds with simple patterns. Use fun coffee mugs. Or create your own food photography props (DIY) for a more personal touch.

Then, create a catalog of your favourite food photography props. And keep adding to your prop collection, so your food photography never stops evolving. We hope our suggestions and tips will help you make some fantastic food images!

Try out our Products In Focus e-book to create dynamic compositions!

Go ahead and try taking pictures of steam coming from your coffee. Did you capture anything at all? If not, don’t worry. We’ll show you a few tricks to capture smoke photography.

Aromatic Ambiance

Egyptian Musk Incense Sticks

Looking for inspiration for your smoke photography? Try burning a type of incense that disperses a beautiful, soothing scent with a twist. Hand-rolled in India, this incense comes in a box containing six tubes with around 20 sticks each.

Smoke Photography: How to Take Great Photos

People use smoke for various types of photography, from portraiture to still-life.

Depending on what you’d like to achieve, there are a variety of ways to capture smoke.

In this tutorial, we’ll start with simple methods you can use for food photography. But we’ll also show you advanced techniques that you can apply to your conceptual projects.

Most of the methods we’ll be discussing are so simple; you can even use your iPhone to do them.

(We also have amazing smoke photography tips in our Creative Photography Cookbook! Check it out today!)

1. Observe Different Types of Smoke to Recreate Them

The steam from your hot drink looks distinct from the smoke that an extinguished candle produces. Now, why is this information necessary in smoke photography?

Sometimes, you need to “cheat” to produce smoke for photography. So it only makes sense that you know how to recreate smoke effects for anything from hot foods to burning candles.

You’ll see that candles often create wispy columns of smoke. Meanwhile, extremely hot foods and drinks often generate thicker billows.

At the same time, you should also consider the subtleties of creating photography smoke. For instance, a freshly poured coffee may create thick billows. Meanwhile, a cup that has been sitting on the table for a while may produce thin trails.

When you’re familiar with how something produces smoke, you’ll know which technique to use to create realistic effects.

2. Pick a Darker Background to Add Contrast

One of the reasons why smoke isn’t showing up in your pictures is because of your background.

Since smoke is white, it won’t be as visible if what’s behind it is also a light color. So if possible, look for a dark background that provides the proper contrast you need.

The best background for smoke photography is black. But you don’t have to stick with that color all the time. You can also choose grey and other shades that make the smoke more visible.

And what if you only have a white wall as your background? Then try to block out some of the light hitting the wall. Doing so makes the surface look grey and thus would make the smoke visible in your photos.

3. Add Light to Emphasise the Smoke

When you shine a light on the smoke, you reveal its details.

But of course, it’s not just a matter of flooding your scene with light. You need a concentrated beam that focuses only on the smoke, and nothing else. That way, you can keep your background dark and retain the contrast you need.

So how do you focus light?

If you’re using natural light, it can be tricky. You may have to go around your house and look for beams of light entering the room.

But if you want consistency, you can try using off-camera flash, instead. To avoid illuminating the wall, you can place your flashgun behind the subject, but at an angle, so it’s not in your frame.

You may need to do some test shots to make sure the light is hitting the smoke at all. Once you find the correct position, you’ll instantly see how effective it is for smoke photography.

4. Burn an Incense Stick to Add Subtle Swirls

When you see smokey pictures of hot coffee, you may think it’s real. But there’s a good chance that it was faked using an incense stick.

Now, why not just take photos of hot coffee and capture real smoke?

The truth is that commercial photography takes hours to do. After just a few minutes, that hot cup of coffee will stop producing smoke.

If you’re all about authenticity, you can always reheat the coffee when photographing smoke.

But if you’re wiser, you can use an incense stick, instead. Why? Because they create thin trails of smoke that resemble the steam coming out of your cup of joe.

To use an incense stick for smoke photography, all you have to do is light one and place it behind the drink.

Feel free to cut the wooden handle, so the tip of the incense stick isn’t visible in your frame.

You can also use silly-putty to prop up the sticks safely above the surface. That way, you can make sure you don’t accidentally cause a fire.

5. Adjust Your Shutter Speed to Alter the Smoke

You can use any shutter speed setting when doing smoke photography. But the value you select determines its appearance.

If you use fast shutter speed, you’ll end up with crisp trails. Any setting from 1/30th to 1/8000 helps you retain the detail of the smoke.

But as you go slower than 1/30th, you’ll start to notice the details disappear.

When you keep the shutter open for a few seconds, you’ll end up with wispy effects no matter what type of object you’re photographing.

In typical situations, losing the details when photographing smoke is not ideal. But if you want to create dreamy pictures, then keeping your shutter open for longer will do the trick.

Slow shutter speed also tends to increase the volume of the smoke. Why? Because it records every movement while the shutter stays open and blurs it.

So if your trail looks too thin, then blow on it while the shutter is open. That way, it spreads and ends up looking wider in your photo.

6. Use a Spoon to Create Patterns

The best smoke photography involves beautiful patterns that capture attention.

But the truth is that most of the time, you will encounter thin smoke that goes straight up. So what do you do when this happens to you? The simplest solution is to use a spoon.

All you have to do is place the spoon on top of the smoke. Doing so disrupts the straight column and creates patterns. Feel free to experiment with how you do it.

You can remove the spoon every few seconds to create a regular sequence. But you can also keep it on top to create turbulent mushroom clouds.

Of course, you’re free to use other objects too. We just chose a spoon because it doesn’t burn, and it’s readily available.

7. Soak Tea Bags in Water to Create Wispy Smoke

When it comes to doing food photography, incense sticks will not be enough to create realistic smoke. We don’t recommend you use them at all for hot foods. Why? Because the smoke they produce is too thin and fragile.

Hot food usually creates voluminous smoke, especially when it just came straight from the stove or oven. To create a similar effect, you can soak tea bags in hot water.

Since the teabag retains water, it will keep smoking for several minutes. Once it stops producing smoke, you can always place it hot water once more and start the process over again.

Placing tea bags in hot every few minutes may seem tedious. But it’s a whole lot better than putting the food back in the oven and wait for a longer time.

Plus, tea bags are so small that you can place them just about anywhere. You can pour a whole bunch of them into a soufflé cup and set them behind a plate of food.

You can also place them between foods on your plate and not worry about them showing in your frame because they’re so small.

8. Light Smoke Bombs to Add Color to Your Photos

Smoke photography isn’t just about foods, drinks, and candles.

There are a lot of other creative ways to use smoke, and one of them is using smoke bombs. They’re not just colorful, but they add some action to what would otherwise be boring pictures.

You can use smoke bomb photography from capturing portraits to documenting action sports.

For portraits, most photographers often have their subjects hold the bomb while posing. But it’s also quite common for them to place several smoke bombs around the person and photograph them as smoke starts to fill the frame.

As for action sports, a lot of photographers have their subjects hold the smoke bomb as they run or jump. Doing so allows them to emphasise the graceful movements of the athletes.

Of course, you don’t have to limit yourself to portraiture and sports photography.

Feel free to experiment with smoke bombs with other genres, whether it be landscape or conceptual photography. They may be what you need to give your photos that extra oomph.

Smoke bombs are a fire hazard, so make sure you stay safe while using them for your photography.

9. Experiment With a Smoke Machine to Add Drama

In most cases, smoke machines are overkill when it comes to doing smoke photography. They produce too much haze that can quickly engulf your scene.

But there are times when using incense sticks isn’t enough.

There are situations when smoke machines are necessary to create specific effects for your smoke photography. For instance, it’s ideal for replicating thick smoke that you often see coming from big fires. You can also use it to create mysterious, and even spooky moods.

I use a smoke machine to create a fake “ball of fire” without having to use a flame thrower. Using flash gels, I can develop photos such as the one you see below.

To use this technique, you’ll need two flashes, gels, and of course, a smoke machine. You’ll also need a remote to trigger your strobes wirelessly.

As you can see, there are quite a few requirements that most beginner photographers may not have. But if you have these pieces of equipment lying around, then this technique is worth trying.

First, place an orange gel on one flash and a darker orange gel on the other. If you don’t know what gels are, you can think of them as filters that change the color of the light.

Next, place the one flash behind the subject on the left side and the other one on the right side.

Once they’re in position, press the button of the smoke machine and take a picture once a white ball forms behind the object.

You may have to try several times until you find the best shot. But if you do it correctly, you should end up with a realistic fireball.

10. Use Lightroom to Create Colorful Smoke

When you google the term “smoke photography,” you’ll most likely end up with colorful photos of smoke. And if you’re wondering how to create your own, we’ll show you how.

There are a variety of methods you can try to achieve this effect. But to make it simple, we’ll teach you how to do it in Lightroom using the brush tool.

First, you’ll need to take photos of trails from incense sticks in front of a dark background.

Once you have several pictures, load them into Lightroom. Increase your contrast, shadow, and black to make sure the smoke pops from the background.

After you finish your basic adjustments, click on your brush tool. Now go down to Color and pick the color you want using the dropper.

At this point, all you have to do is “paint” the smoke with the color you pick. If you want another color, hit the New button just below the brush tool and choose another hue.

When you’re satisfied with the result, save your image, and that’s it!

Conclusion

Taking pictures of smoke is much more complicated than you think. It requires a lot of trial and error.

Using these techniques will help you solve the issues you may encounter. Keep them in mind; you’ll never know when you’re going to need them!