Food photography has become an indispensable part of the culinary industry. Beautiful food photos not only attract customers but also effectively build brand image. While beginners might think it requires expensive equipment and complex techniques, in reality, anyone can start creating eye-catching food photos with simple and practical tips.

Here are the tips for shooting food:

1. Utilize Natural Light

Using natural light is one of the most economical techniques. Compared to artificial lighting, natural light brings out more realistic and enticing colors in food. Opt for indirect sunlight to reduce shadows and overexposure issues, making the food look natural and vibrant. Avoid using harsh flash, which can make the food appear artificial and distorted.

2. Shoot from Multiple Angles

Try shooting the same dish from various angles to find the one that best highlights its beauty and texture. For example, dishes that are best shot from above can showcase layers and decorations, while side shots can emphasize textures and layers. Dare to experiment with different angles to find the best way to photograph each type of food.

3. Simplify the Composition

Composition is key to creating engaging food photos. A stable camera angle and balanced layout will help capture the dish's aesthetics. Keep it clear and concise, pay attention to negative space in the background to highlight the food's main subject. Ensure the focus is on the food itself rather than clutter or other diners.

4. Clarity and Detail

To ensure photo clarity, proper focus is crucial. Before shooting, adjust your camera or smartphone to ensure the food is clearly visible. Especially in low-light conditions, use steady handheld techniques or a tripod to prevent blur or shake.

5. Use of Contrast Colors

For monochromatic or neutral-toned dishes, using bright garnishes or decorations can enhance visual impact. Cleverly pairing sliced tomatoes, fresh herbs, citrus slices, or colorful spices can draw the viewer's eye and highlight the dish's main ingredients.

6. Art of Plating

The art of plating is crucial in food photography. Opt for white dishes to provide a fresh and elegant background that makes the food stand out. Additionally, try using unexpected surfaces like slate, wooden boards, or textured parchment paper to add realism and interest to the photo. Also, arrange food elements in odd numbers, which creates visual appeal through asymmetrical composition.

7. Use oil to add shine

Before shooting, gently brush a thin layer of oil on salads, bread, or other dishes to enhance texture and capture light effectively. This technique can add shine to the food, making it look more appealing and appetizing in photos.

8. Application of the Rule of Thirds

The rule of thirds is an effective composition technique where you divide the frame into nine equal parts and place key elements along these lines or at their intersections, creating balance and strong visual interest in your photos.

9. Lens Choice

Consider using prime lenses like 35mm or 50mm, which offer clearer image quality and are suitable for photographing a variety of foods. Additionally, lenses with larger apertures can create a shallow depth of field effect, making the food the focal point while softening the background.

10. Use of Tripod

To avoid camera shake and blurriness, use a tripod and a remote shutter release device to ensure camera stability. In low-light situations, increase the shutter speed or adjust the ISO settings appropriately to compensate for inadequate lighting.

In conclusion, food photography is a creative art. By mastering lighting techniques, understanding camera settings, and familiarizing yourself with composition methods, you can capture the irresistible charm of food in your photos.