7 Tips for More Eco-Friendly Food Photography

On a scale from filling a single mason jar of yearly waste - to - requesting plastic bags at the supermarket, I fall somewhere in the middle.

I care about the earth. I love being out in nature, I am a proud plant mama and get so much joy from my little patio garden in my city home. So even though I’m not perfect, I do make an effort to do my part.

Over the years, I’ve adopted more eco-friendly habits; in my personal life and in my food photography, and I truly believe every little bit counts. From food waste to single-use props, I’m in an industry that is notoriously wasteful. And while there’s some amount of waste that is unavoidable as a food photographer, I’ve learned that there are a few easy ways to take steps toward better sustainability; and that’s what this blog is all about.

I’m still learning and growing in my eco-friendly efforts; so I hope you’ll join me in my journey and share any additional tips you might have with me!

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Don’t Worry About Perfection

This first point isn’t so much a tip as it is an affirmation. It’s easy to think of sustainability as this huge, overwhelming thing. But what the world really needs is not a few people doing it perfectly, but a lot of people making small but meaningful changes toward sustainability.

Start with ONE Thing. Sustainability is a journey.

When I start to feel guilty or overwhelmed I remind myself that it’s better to do one thing than nothing at all.

Compost Your Food

I would love to tell you that every food dish eventually goes on to be enjoyed as a delicious meal, but that’s simply not true. In a controlled environment, like when I’m shooting at home, I can take measures to protect food from contamination as I photograph it. But when I’m on set, the food often sits out for hours and/or gets touched by everyone. And that’s where I have to draw the line and throw it out.

It’s such a shame to see good food go to waste, but I don’t mess around with food safety.

Whether you’re a food photographer or not, composting is something we should all be doing. When you throw food scraps away in the garbage, they end up in a landfill and release methane gas. METHANE GAS! I’m no scientist, but even I know that is bad.

On the flip side, composting turns your food scraps into (what is referred to in the gardening community as) ‘black gold’; ie. highly nutrient-rich organic matter that can be used to nourish the soil.

If you don’t already have a composting system, there are lots of options:

For Hands-Off Composting: Many cities offer compost pick-up for a nominal fee. Just type “[your city] composting” to search your options.

For Hands-On Composting: There are so many at-home systems you can purchase - with many options to fit any budget.

For DIY Composting: There are step-by-step instructions available to help you build your own compost pile.

Grow Your Own Veggies

Before you roll your eyes around your small city apartment and scroll past this section, hear me out.

I live in L.A. in what we call a “tall and skinny”. As in one of those tall and skinny houses with 2 inches of lawn space and an intrusive view into my neighbor’s bedroom. Like, we could share an air freshener.

Believe me when I say I understand the struggle. And that’s why I LOVE my Lettuce Grow Farmstand. It’s a bit of an investment, but this thing is magic. It’s a self-watering, self-fertilizing garden that’s built vertically so it takes up almost no space on my patio. And it’s always lush with fresh veggies and herbs.

If you have limited gardening space like me, I encourage you to make a list of the fruit, veggies, and herbs that you use the most. Then, either purchase a farmstand or go out and buy a few pots and starters and build your own potted patio garden.

Not only will it give you a supply of fresh produce, but it will also help you connect with food in a new way, and add some gorgeous greenery to your space.

Here are a few other suggestions:

1. Start A Garden - If you have land, carve out some space to grow your own garden.

2. Join a Community Garden - Plant produce in your own section of a community garden.

3. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) - Sign up to get regular produce delivery from a local farm. You’ll support local farmers, have a constant variety of veggies to shoot, and keep your content fresh.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

On any food photography set, it’s easy to go through an entire roll of paper towels. What can I say, I’m a messy gal! One swap I’ve made in recent years is to bring my own reusable microfiber cloths and Tupperware to photoshoots. I also bring my reusable grocery bags to the grocery store.

These small shifts can make a huge difference over time; especially when you’re working with a lot of food regularly.

Keep It Food Safe

I have a strict rule on set that I only use food-safe ingredients. This might sound like an obvious “given”, but in food photography, we have all sorts of tricks that help us bring our food to life in front of the camera - a spritz of this, a drizzle of that - and not all of them are edible.

When I was first learning food photography, I was taught to use shaving cream in place of whipped cream. It looks identical, it’s easy to get a perfect swirl, it doesn’t melt... I get the appeal. But as soon as you put that perfect swirl of shaving cream on that banana sundae, you contaminate it. That means it can no longer be eaten OR composted.

As for me, I’ll swirl real whipped cream over shaving cream. I’ll keep glue out of my cheerios, cover my pancakes in syrup, NOT motor oil, and spray my meat dishes with food-safe glycerine instead of browning liquid.

Gift Extra Food

Whenever I’m on set, I buy extra ingredients for my photoshoot. I do this for many reasons:

• It gives me a few of everything to choose from if my produce looks beautiful on the outside and not so appetizing on the inside.

• It allows me more food styling and posing options - I can highlight ingredients alongside the final dish.

• It prevents me from having to run to the store if something gets cut wrong, wilts, or cooks too long, etc.

More often than not, I end up with extra food at the end of my shoot. When this happens, I have a list of people I call to pick up my leftovers. It’s a fun way to give food to friends and family and cut down on food waste. Oh, and packaged food can be returned or dropped off at any local food bank!

Thrift Or Borrow Props

I love treasure hunting in antique shops for amazing props and unlikely surfaces. Not only does it help me give old things a new life, the pieces are often very affordable, and they help me build a unique collection.

In addition to thrifting, I frequently borrow pieces from friends and family. If a photoshoot calls for it, I swipe their dishes, vases, tablecloths, you name it!

I’m shameless about my thrifting and borrowing because single-use props are so wasteful. On the occasion that I do have to buy a new prop, I try to buy from sustainable companies with eco-friendly practices. Of course, I do make the occasional run to Target, but because I look to friends and family, second-hand, and sustainable stores first, I save a lot of retail waste.

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As a food photographer, I know that this industry has a long way to go; and It’s important to me to be part of the solution, not part of the problem. I’m far from perfect, but I believe that by taking small steps forward together, we can make a big change!

If you’re a food photographer or simply an earth-loving human like myself, what tips do you have for living and working more sustainably?

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Recipe Development: Cooking Up Photographic & Culinary Magic

Everyone has a love language; mine is creating food.

As a food photographer, I spend so much time behind the lens, but my first love is (and always has been) making beautiful food in the kitchen. In fact, it’s how I got into food photography in the first place!

I’ve learned that, while I absolutely love photographing other people’s creations, some of my favorite jobs are the ones that allow me to come up with my own creations; namely, through recipe development.

What Is Recipe Development?

Recipe developer is a vague term that can be used for anyone that creates recipes. As a food photographer, my recipe development work comes from companies who make food products that are meant to be used in recipes.

My job as a recipe developer is to bring a product to life by showcasing it in a recipe that is creative, on-brand, tasty, and photogenic. I create recipes that show off the possibilities of the product and make the reader think, “I have to try that!”

And that’s why hiring a seasoned recipe developer is absolutely crucial.

It won’t surprise you to hear that most recipe developers are professional food photographers and videographers. This is because food photography is a vital part of recipe development.

Your recipe is only as good as your visuals. Your photos are what will determine if your readers rush to buy your product, or scroll past it faster than you can say don’t judge a book by it’s cover!!

It doesn’t matter how delicious your recipe tastes, if it looks like you made it, dropped it on the floor, then took a photo of it with your iPhone 4, it never stood a chance.

Food photographers know how to capture a reader’s attention with images that jump off the page and tease the senses. Using surfaces, lighting, props, and fresh ingredients, we expertly set the stage and style the dish to make the recipe look oh-so-irresistible.

Recipe development is an art form and one that I’ve cultivated over the years. I’ve learned a lot, including that:

• I prefer to make savory recipes over sweet recipes.

• I believe that techniques are the key to developing a successful food recipe and this is one of my greatest strengths.

• I thrive in the challenge of creating food that tastes incredible and knows how to work a camera.

Over the years, I’ve worked mostly with food companies and food manufacturers that need recipes to showcase their product; I love doing projects like these. My big dream is to work on a cookbook for myself or a client someday - If you have the same dream, let’s make it happen!

Why I Love Recipe Development

Growing up in Syria, my mother didn’t use recipes. The dishes she made were taught to her by her mother and grandmother. Now, living in L.A. I’ve become diligent about writing our recipes down for my kids as a way of passing on my family traditions.

I think this may be why I have always been passionate about food and recipes, ingredients, and techniques. I geek out over simple things like making a perfect bowl of steamed rice and finding the most delicious spice blend.

Working in the kitchen keeps me grounded, humble, and hungry for innovation and inspiration. It allows me to go back to my roots and play with veggies, proteins, spices, and herbs. It’s a chance for me to flex my creativity, get my hands dirty in the kitchen and really get to know my client’s product while I bring it to life in a tasty, tangible way.

And because recipe development isn’t the bulk of my work as a food photographer, these projects add variety into my day and reignite my creative passion for food and food photography.

Client Feature: Pacific Spice

I couldn’t write a blog about recipe development without talking about Pacific Spice Company (PSC). They’re a company I’ve worked with for years, and some of the work I’ve done for them is featured throughout this blog.

PSC is a California-based B2B spice company. They sell spices and herbs which are not only a dream to work with, they’re also uniquely beautiful to photograph. I love to create recipes that incorporate multiple herbs and spices that can be seen visually in pictures, and they’ve allowed me to do that time and time again.

I work closely with PSC on recipe development and have been creating recipes for their blog page and social media for years.

Here are a few of my favorite recipes I’ve created for Pacific Spice Company over the years:

• Chickpea Burgers with Tahini Lemon Sauce

• Shakshuka

• Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting

My Recipe Development Process 

My recipe development process varies with the client. Oftentimes, I’m hired for something specific; and other times, I’m given very little direction and more creative control over the final product. Either way, it’s collaborative.

Step 1.

My recipe development process begins by scheduling a strategy session with my client. I take a deep dive into their company and spend time really getting to know them. The goal of this meeting is to talk about their brand and what aspect of their product they’d like to highlight for their particular audience.

step 2.

Next, I shift my focus to the product. I talk about it, look at it, smell it, put my fingers in it (ok, not really), and sample it to really get to know what I’m working with. If inspiration strikes, I make sure to jot it down.

STEP 3.

I put pen to paper to brainstorm a list of potential dishes. I do a little research and narrow the dishes down to a few of the best options. Then, I send the client a recipe ideation presentation explaining each dish and why it would be a good option for their product.

STEP 4.

We review the presentation and select the final recipe. We choose the one that’s the most exciting, on brand, and photogenic. It’s important to note that I always develop recipes with the photographer and videographer in mind; building beautiful, photogenic recipes around a single ingredient. The final vision for the product is a key component to our ultimate decision.

STEP 5.

Finally, It’s time to break into my closet of props and surfaces and plan the photoshoot! But before I even step foot on the set, I outline my deliverables.

• How many images am I delivering? A typical package includes 3 final recipe shots for the web and print. Clients will have a full gallery from that day’s photoshoot to choose from. From ingredient shots, to action shots, to final shots.

• How will these images be used? Will they be used as poster prints, on packaging, on social media, or on your website? I’ll work with you to make sure I’m capturing exactly what you need.

• Will there be video? Video can easily be added to any package, and I highly recommend doing so. Not only do videos bring life to your brand, they are a fantastic addition to your social media. If you follow social media trends, you know that video of any kind is the best performing content across all platforms. Check out this video I created for PSC’s pickling spice blend.

With a recipe and clear deliverables outlined, it’s time to create my vision for the shoot and make culinary and photo magic in the kitchen!

Recipe development stretches my imagination, pushes me in the kitchen, and always makes me reconnect with my passion for food.

A lot goes into recipe development but it’s something I’m so passionate about.

I absolutely love working with all kinds of companies and creating versatile content for them to use on their blog, website, and social media pages. For me, recipe development is fun, rewarding work that lights a fire under me.

If you’re ready to offer eye-catching, drool-worthy recipe content to your customers, contact me for a quote! I’d love to work with you.

How to Reignite Your Passion as a Creative

Underground Poker Night With Caviar & Whiskey.

Lighting: Aputure 300D Light on right side with scrim jim diffuser. Camera Settings: Nikon Z7, ISO 100 1/30 Shutter F/7.1 70mm

I have a theory that everyone is creative.

The best evidence of this comes during childhood. Remember when you didn’t have a care in the world but to make ‘magic potions’ out of leaves and dirt, spend hours building forts, and make up secret languages with your best friend? Those were the days! 

Some of us defined ourselves by our creativity and eventually built a career out of it, and others slowly moved into more structured careers. As a working creative, I count myself to be super lucky to be able to do what I love and make money;  but as any working creative will tell you, things change when you start monetizing your passion.

You start getting paid to make art for other people, and then a month passes, and another month, and pretty soon it’s been a long time since you’ve made anything for yourself. You start to feel guilty. Your brain kicks into overdrive. Suddenly, you find yourself in the lost, lonely world of writer’s block, or you can’t think of a half-decent melody for the life of you, or your blank canvas haunts you in your dreams. Finally, you face the truth: You feel flat out uninspired, you wonder, have I lost it?! 

I know, it’s dark. 

Now, don’t get me wrong. I love photographing for other people; I get a lot out of it. But when I shoot for someone else, I’m ultimately shooting for their brand, not mine. And while it still exercises my creative muscles and challenges me to keep my technical skills sharp, it’s not the same. Any artist will tell you, it’s as much about making something good as it is about you expressing yourself and processing your human experience. And that’s not always something you can do within the confines of paid work. 

If I’ve learned anything, it’s this: Just because my photography is objectively good it doesn’t mean I’m off the hook. I need to dig deeper. I need to actively look for inspiration, I need to continue to evolve as an artist, to find my voice, and then find it again.

So that’s what this blog is about; it’s about reigniting your passion as a creative. It’s not a fancy how-to blog or comprehensive list by any means, it’s just a few things I’ve been doing lately to reclaim my art, find my voice, and reignite my passion.

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Do Something Else Creative

Lately, I’ve been doing paint-by-numbers to unwind. Why? Because I need new art for my house! Jk :) I do it because it’s fun and it helps me turn my brain off. And when it’s done, I feel accomplished. 

Your creative brain is not rigid. Art breeds art. So get out from behind the lens and do something creative that your ego is not attached to. Exercise your creative brain by making something with your hands. Interact with textiles and materials. Get your hands dirty.

I think people are meant to be makers; it’s just downright therapeutic. 

I’m convinced it’s the reason everyone started color coordinating their bookshelves and learning how to make bread (I swear, even my gluten-free friends have hopped on that grain train). 

When you exercise your own creative brain with things that aren’t related to photography (or music, or architecture, or whatever your primary creative passion), your creative brain refreshes, inspires, and expands.

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Surround Yourself With People Who Share Your Passion

My passion first and foremost is food, and one of my favorite things to do is to cook for my foodie friends. You know, the kind of friends who get excited over a pretty garnish and never ask for menu alterations. Those are my people! I can always count on oohs and ahhs, clean plates, and enthusiastic reviews. It makes me feel good about myself and reminds me why I love to do what I do. 

1. If you’re a dancer - Take a friend to the ballet 

2. If you’re a sculptor -  Go to a gallery opening and mingle

3. If you’re a bartender - Go to an industry meetup

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Observe The World

Sometimes, the best thing you can do for your art is… nothing. Really! It’s so easy to forget that there is endless inspiration around every corner. You don’t have to go looking for it, you just have to be present and open. So take a break to simply observe the world around you.

Some of my greatest inspiration has come from trying out a new restaurant in downtown L.A., going to a museum, hunkering down in a cafe to people-watch, traveling, or staring into the ocean from my boat.

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Remember What You Used to Do for Fun

Do you remember that feeling of being so lost in your imagination, you didn’t even notice when it got dark. Of outright forgetting to break for lunch because you were in the middle of making something? A fort, a song, a costume, a lego structure...That ‘thing’ you used to do for fun when you were a kid is a building block of who you are as an artist today. 

What did you use to do before you ever got paid? 

For me, I was never a hobby photographer. But I became one because of my love for food. Growing up in Syria, food was such a big part of the culture. It was a love language of tradition, family, and connection. Since I can remember, I’ve loved making food with my hands and sharing it with other people. So it’s no surprise that I was drawn to food photography because of the food, flavors, and stories behind the pictures. 

In today’s world, we’re all so obsessed with documenting. It’s a sad symptom of our generation. But the truth is…

...if you’re not documenting or monetizing something, it doesn’t mean it’s a waste of time. Take a lesson from your younger self and just do it for fun. 

Take a break from social media, leave your tool at home, and go experience your passion the way you did when you were a kid. 

1. If you’re an architect - Go stare at that building that inspired you

2. If you’re a musician - Lay on your bedroom floor and listen to your favorite album

3. If you’re a photographer - Spend an afternoon browsing the flea market

Relieving yourself of the pressure to document and create might take a few days or even weeks. We’re so conditioned to be ‘productive’, that it can feel counterintuitive to take a break. But it’s worth it. It cleans your palate and saves you from burnout. 

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The life of an artist is never passive; therefore, I hope this blog helps you actively reconnect with yourself as an artist and reclaim the joy of simply creating!

Part of this journey for me means learning to be vulnerable with my fellow creative community and honest about my process. Because as much as we might feel alone as creatives, many of us are going through the same things. 

So with that in mind... 

How do you feed your creativity? How do you keep the magic alive? 

I’m pleased to say that over the last few weeks I’ve put in the work, and you know what? My photography has changed for the better. I’ve had more energy to shoot for myself. I’ve gotten really clear about the kind of content I want to put out on social media, and I’m just flat-out inspired. So although I don’t claim to be an expert on this, I can tell you firsthand that these tips really work.  

I hope this blog helps you explore, expand, and evolve who you are as an artist. More than anything, I hope it helps you see your art from a new perspective to reignite your passion as a creative.

Preparing For A Food Photoshoot + Free Shot List Template

As a food photographer, I am hired by restaurant owners, cookbook authors, product marketers, and food service companies to tell their story by artfully designing each frame to appear lifelike and delicious. 

Now, if someone wants to hire me to take photos of an impromptu brunch food fight: Sprinkles-in-the-air, waffles-in-your-face, banana-peels-on-the-ground, anything-goes, free-for-all, I’m game! But 99% of the time, my job is to capture intentional, high-quality product photos for a very specific purpose. And you know what helps me the most? My shot list. 

In food photography, everything is intentional. From the positioning of the finished food to the ingredients and how they’re presented. The lighting, the surfaces, the textures and colors, the props... With special care for every detail, your job is to show the tantalizing details of what you’re photographing with the very little real estate to spare, and there are so many variables. That’s why it’s so important to prepare before you even pick up your camera.

In this blog, I’ll share:

• What you need to do before you plan your shot list - Includes tips for vetting your clients, making a mood board, and having a successful pre-production meeting.

• My FREE downloadable Food Photography Shot List Template to help you crush your next photoshoot

• Pro tips to help you be prepared for anything so that your shoot goes off without a hitch.

Preparing for a Photoshoot 

You can’t build the perfect shot list out of nothing. In fact, creating your shot list is one of the last things you’ll do before the photoshoot. Here are a few important things you need to do before you start working on your shot list.

Vet Your Clients (+ Get to Know Them)

The bottom line is: You want to be passionate about what you’re shooting. Sure, you’re talented, and you can shoot other styles, but photos always turn out better when they’re taken by someone who is excited about the project and who connects to the client’s brand aesthetic, story, and products. That’s just the truth.

• What’s their brand aesthetic? Does their brand aesthetic align with your style and what you like to shoot? If yes, then there’s a good chance it’s a great match! 

• What’s their story? - Knowing where your client comes from and what drives their innovation will not only help you connect to the product, it will help you tell their visual story. And speaking from experience, asking the client questions about their ‘why’ will help make them feel more confident putting their product in your hands. It will also start a dialogue that will help you vet your clients so that you can be confident you’re working with brands that you believe in. 

• Do you drool over their products? Listen, I’m not saying a vegetarian can’t take great photos of bacon-wrapped turducken, but it is definitely a bonus if you look at what you’re shooting and think, I can’t wait to eat this! 

Learn About What You’re Shooting

Find out what they want you to shoot. A pop-up restaurant hiring you to take photos for Instagram has very different needs than a foodservice company asking for new product shots for their catalogue. 

Once you know what the client is hiring you to shoot, get to know the product(s). For example, if you’re shooting a multi-ingredient dish, get a list of all the ingredients and ask about anything else that sets this dish apart (the dish they serve it in, what they serve it with, etc). Ask about what inspired the dish and how it got its name.

Create a Mood Board

Gather inspirational ideas related to color, texture, subject, and light to create a visual mood board. I use a software program called Milatone but you can also use a free tool like Pinterest. This will help you cover every visual aspect of the photoshoot (like ingredients, props, surfaces, etc.) and will help you articulate your concept when you present it to your client. 

Have a Creative Meeting

If the only times you meet your client are when you sign your contract and when you arrive at the photoshoot, you’re leaving waaaay too much space for miscommunication and overall confusion. 

I always call a pre-production creative meeting to go over the project in detail, collect helpful information, answer questions, and share my mood board to ensure that we’re all on the same page. This meeting is the best time to get everything settled on both sides so that we can all show up prepared and get right to work on shoot day. 

Here are a few topics I make sure to discuss at this meeting:

• Style - Does the brand call for dark and moody, light and airy, etc.

• Props - Build a list of unique props that will fit the mood of the photoshoot. For example, an old vintage meat tenderizer that their chef uses, a polaroid of their team, or one of their centerpieces. Make sure to talk about any supplies they might not readily have as well so that you can prepare accordingly.

• Ingredients - An ingredients list is a must-have! Find out what you need and decide who is bringing the fresh ingredients (them or you).

You can learn more about these pre-production meetings in my previous blog, How to Work with a Food Photographer . 

Preparing Your Shot List

I can’t even tell you how much using a shot list has helped me in my career. If you are new to food photography or are simply looking for an industry hack that will make your life a ka-billion times easier, this is it. Because when the lights are on and culinary magic is being made, even the most experienced of food photographers can forget a shot (ask me how I know). 

What is a Shot List?

A shot list is your marching orders for a photoshoot. It keeps you on track, focused, and in creative flow because it takes the guesswork out of your photoshoot. With a carefully constructed shot list, you won’t have to worry about whether or not you’re forgetting anything; it’s already all on paper. All you have to do is check each shot off your list, one at a time.

Maximizing Your Photoshoot with a Shot List

When I do a photoshoot, I don’t just shoot the final product, I shoot each ingredient separately and at different stages of preparation to tell the story of the dish. A shot list helps me maximize a photoshoot by identifying photo opportunities from start to finish. 

For example, if I shoot a Pomegranate Berry Smoothie, I take photos of me cutting the pomegranate and washing the berries and seeds under the sink. I take action shots of me filling the blender, etc. until I take my final, crowd-pleasing hero shot. I do this because I want the client to have plenty of options to choose from, some traditional, and some not-so-traditional. It’s a way for me to maximize my photoshoot for a big variety of images (even if they didn’t ask for them). 

The three main shots I make sure to get for each dish are:

1. An ingredient shot - Alone and together in various groupings.

2. A human shot - Typically these are hand shots showing the preparation process.

3. A final shot - This is called the ‘hero’ shot.

Note: My shot list process for videos is not all that different, but it is a bit more detailed. When I do a videography shoot, I write out each clip that I’ll be shooting beforehand and also describe each transition between shots.

Don’t have your own shot list? Use mine! Click to download your free copy!

Pro Tips for a Seamless Food Photography Shoot

Funny story, a few weeks ago, I was shooting a video for a product and I was testing out a new hand slicer. Surprise, surprise, I cut my hand. And because of special covid precautions that required me to restrict the number of people at the shoot, I was not only the food photographer that day, I was also the designated hand model... bleeding all over the place. And yes, I realize the absurdity of the fact that I got in a hand modeling accident 😂 but my point is, even at a food photoshoot, you never know what’s going to happen. 

As a self-taught food photographer, I’ve learned a lot through trial and error. I could write a whole entire blog about some of these lessons, but today, I’ll simply leave you with a few final pro tips to help you have a seamless and enjoyable food photography shoot.

1. Come prepared - Make a list of the props and gear you’ll need for the photoshoot and pack it all up ahead of time. Plan your travel so that you’re not rushing to location. Find out if the client wants natural lighting or artificial lighting and make sure you know what kind of available natural light you’ll have for your shoot so you can pack accordingly.

2. Define a point person - Something always comes up on photo shoot day that you did not anticipate. It’s just the way it goes. Make sure you have a point person on site who can answer any questions that might arise, and who has the authority to make executive decisions if needed. 

3. Have an extra hand on set - Remember that hand modeling story from before? Thankfully, I had an extra hand on set (literally) - My assistant! She was able to jump in and take over. And that day, *dramatic pause* a (hand) model was born.

4. Bring back ups - Bring extra batteries, SD cards, a tripod, an extension cord, a phone cord, different types of lenses, lights, a reflector, etc. 

There you have it! If you follow these pro tips and create a shot list, you can rest assured you’ll make the very most of your photoshoot and be ready for whatever the day throws at you. 

Never miss a shot again! Use this downloadable template to make creating a shot list an easy part of your pre-production planning. 

How to Work with a Food Photographer

You are a restaurant owner, a magazine editor, a cookbook author, a product marketer, or a food service company. You take great care in creating signature dishes, visual spreads, and food products, and signature dishes. Your story and your product set you apart.

But nowadays, It takes more than a delicious product to be successful. You have to get it in front of the right people, and that’s where I come in.

In today’s world of social media, digital marketing, blogging, foodservice apps, and self-publishing, beautiful images that are professional, visually appealing, and on brand, are more important than they’ve ever been. Great images communicate company expertise, confidence, and commitment to quality. They are a first impression, and a lasting impression of your business, and an eat-with-your-eyes experience that helps attract your ideal client - the kind of people that will always come back for second helpings.

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What do Food Photographers Do?

In a breath: Food photographers create craveable content. We are artists whose primary goal is to make your food appear so lifelike and delicious that you’re tempted to reach into the picture and take a bite. Food photographers want to tell your story, and we do so by artfully designing each frame using these elements:

• Food styling

• Lighting

• Brand voice

• Framing

• Props

• Editing

• Motion*

An experienced food photographer knows how to show off the textures, colors, and ingredients of your dishes and communicate who you are as a brand by perfectly orchestrating these variables.

* Some food photographers (like me) are also food videographers! This opens up a window of opportunity to help brands stand out through the use of video and stop motion.

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Why You Should Hire a Food Photographer?

Supplement Your Marketing 

Whether you have an internal marketing team or not, quality food photography is worth investing in. Pictures are often the first impression people have of your business; whether they land on your website or scroll through your social media. Do your images demand attention? Do your images do your product justice (i.e. does your food look as good as it tastes?) High-end food photography is a way for potential customers to ‘taste test’ from their home. To see their meal before they order it. Great food photographers create images that enhance your marketing efforts, elicit an emotional response, and (frankly) make your target audience drool.

Showcase Your Brand 

1. What are you selling? 

2. Who are you? 

3. Why does your product matter? 

Consumers today want to feel connected to the brands they support. For some, it’s as much about what as it is about the who and the why. With so many products on the market, each of them clamoring for attention, high-end food photography sets you apart. It commands attention and helps you tell your story without saying a single word.

Attract Your Target Aaudience 

An establishment that describes themselves as “a quirky dive bar chain with curiosity-shop decor” and another that claims to be “a high-end whiskey bar for the urban gentleman” both offer alcohol and yet appeal to very different demographics. 

Food photography uses photography elements like lighting, food styling, angles, framing, colors, and props, etc. to tell people who you are. This attracts like-minded people to your business or product and increases the odds of earning life-long customers that will come back.

Elevate Your Product Value 

Professional, high-quality photos tell your customers that you have invested in your product and you believe that it’s worthy of beautiful photos. They prove that you value quality and elevate your product and brand as a whole.

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How to Find The Right Food Photographer?

Decide What You Want

Take inventory of your photography needs. Comb through your online and print media and make a list of the parts that are in need of high-quality food photography (and videography) 

• Instagram: Feed, story, reel, and IGTV

• Website images: Pay special attention to your homepage

• Marketing collateral: Brochures, product sheets, menus

• Prints: For your shop 

Then, take note of your future needs

• Pictures for your cookbook

• New products or menu items

Finally, arrange them in order of priority - based on the needs that will make the biggest impact on your business - and set a budget.

 Do Your Research

Look for photography on Instagram, LinkedIn, websites, cookbooks, print media, etc., and start collecting images that really resonate with you and have a similar aesthetic to your brand. Pinterest is a great place to find and collect examples of work, or a simple Google Doc will also do just fine. 

Based on these, create a list of food photographers and reach out for availability and quotes. 

Hire a Food Photographer for Their Style & Capabilities

It is so very important to hire your food photographer for who they are as an artist. You want the work to feel natural and exciting to your food photographer. Although many of us are able to shoot in different styles, I can guarantee that some are already naturally shooting in your brand style. Those food photographers may be able to offer additional expertise, creative ideas, and a collection of additional props and equipment to help your vision come to life. Plus, they’ll approach the project with the magic that comes from working in their natural creative flow. 

On this topic, make sure to vet your food photographer for their professional skill level and access to the equipment your project requires. For example, if you need product shots for your website, you may need access to someone with a studio and studio lights. If you want a food photographer that also does videography (like me!) that is a special skill set that will narrow down your search.

Ask About Rates Up Front

If you have budgetary concerns or limitations, be upfront about what you can pay for a certain project and ask what they can provide for you within that budget (this is the main reason I recommended listing your food photography needs in order of priority). Your food photographer should be able to provide you with an estimate after learning more about your photography needs and priorities. 

Meet Your Photographer

It’s important to jive with your food photographer! You want to feel comfortable giving feedback and asking for what you want, and they want to feel comfortable working potentially long hours with you and your team. There should be a general sense of trust and respect. 

Here are a few key factors to pay attention to when you meet them. Your food photographer should:

• Be a good listener and communicator.

• Be excited about the project. Not just about ‘closing the deal’. 

• Have experience with food photography. Lifestyle, wedding, or landscape photography is very different. 

• Have examples of work that is similar to your vision.

• Come prepared with some ideas. It should be clear they’ve done their homework.

• Appear confident and humble enough to take feedback.

Request an Estimate and Sign a Contract

This is a great time to confirm your vision with your food photographer and agree on clear deliverables. It’s also important to ask important questions, such as:

• How often will you meet?

• When is the shoot?

• Who will be involved?

• What are the start date and the project timeline? 

• How many images will you deliver? 

• What is the final budget?

Once you’ve worked out the details and signed the contract, it’s time to get to work! 

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How to Work with a Food Photographer

You’ve found a photographer you like that has a style you resonate with and provides the services you need. Now, it’s time to build a positive, long-lasting relationship with them. All of the advice I give you below will make you an easy person to work with, which will make your food photographer more likely to have a positive experience and want to work with you in the future. 

I can say from experience that working creatives is one of the things I love most about my job, so there is so much potential for a long and lovely working relationship!

Make Introductions and Assign a Point Person

Introduce your food photographer to the creative team and anyone they’ll be directly working with. Assign a point person for the job (and stick to it). Make sure you are communicating internally so that the photographer only has to communicate with one person via email. 

You know what they say about ‘too many cooks in the kitchen…

Have a Pre-Production Meeting

While every food photographer is different, I always call a pre-production meeting to go over the project in detail. In this meeting, I collect all the information I need to get started designing the shoot. We talk in detail about the product and decide what colors, lights, props, hand models (oo-la-la), and ingredients we need. 

This is a great time to share brand guidelines or a mood board if you have one. If you are letting your food photographer decide on the creative direction of the photoshoot, make sure their mood board gets approved before the shoot day. 

Think about the pre-production meeting as the best time to get all the final questions answered on both sides so that everyone can show up prepared and get right to work on shoot day.

Make Yourself Available

Communication is so key. You have to remember that your food photographer is a contract employee who doesn’t have years of insight into your specific business. So, on shoot day, there may be last-minute questions that come up - it’s so important that the point person is available to answer any questions promptly to keep everything running smoothly and avoid delays. If you or the pre-established point person can’t manage the project in a timely fashion, consider giving decision-making privileges to someone else in your company.

I’ll wrap this up with two final requests:

Treat them like a partner: They’re your partner, not an employee, so communicate with them, cheers them, laugh with them, and engage in radical honesty. Mutual respect and honesty are key if you want to get their very best work and grow as a team!
Pay it Forward: This is not at all a must, but I am a firm believer in paying it forward. Nothing makes me feel better than dumping love and appreciation on a deserving recipient! It’s an instant dopamine rush not unlike the feeling of biting into a warm bismark donut. If you love their work, leave them a review, write a post on Instagram about your experience with them, recommend them to your friends, etc.

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Are We a Good Fit?

If you are on the market for a food photographer, we may be a match made in culinary heaven! I get excited about working with food companies that are passionate about their product and that have a story, big or small. I love shooting stills, and love bringing food to life through videography and food motion. My style is approachable, friendly, and simple. I love editorial food photography and would love to shoot for a magazine one day or a cookbook. In fact, I’ve flirted with the idea for years of writing one myself - perhaps just to check that off my wish list :)

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I believe food photography is one of the single most important things you can do for your business. And I also know that the ‘unknowns’ of working with a food photographer can be a big barrier for companies who could benefit so much from beautiful pictures. So I hope that this blog answered your questions and gave you the final nudge you needed. 

High quality, show-stopping photos are yours for the taking, so get the visual content you need to finally bring your beautiful products into the spotlight by hiring a food photographer. 

Am I the food photographer of your dreams? Contact me to find out!

5 Ways Small Business Owners Can Grow During a Pandemic

Whether you’re the owner of a french-inspired cafe or hometown diner, or the founder of an upscale boutique or custom paper shop, COVID-19  has affected each and every one of us. As an entrepreneur myself who works primarily with small businesses, I realize the life-altering impact of shuttering your doors. Even as some states are beginning to reopen, we are still so far from  ‘business as usual’.

While income and revenue are a huge consideration, there’s also the discomfort of just not knowing what you can do during this time to move your business and your life forward; the feeling of having lost momentum.

Now, before I get started, I want to make it clear: This is not another ‘silver linings’ blog. I am not here to guilt you into being more productive (I swear, those memes drive me to day drink). If you’re currently wearing your son’s PJs, putting lipstick on your dog, and binge-watching Tiger King, you will get NO judgment from me. This blog is simply a resource for those of you who are ready to focus on what you can control during this time. 

Let’s dive in! Read on for 5 ways you can grow your business (and yourself) during COVID-19. 

ASSESS YOUR BRAND + BUSINESS PLAN

Perhaps what I admire most about small business owners is their incessant hustle. Do you remember what it was like to get your business off the ground the first time? You started with a dream and marinated in all its possibilities. Then, you considered the current economy and thought deeply about how you could (and would) fill the void. You figured out what would make you different, memorable, and set you apart. You started with an idea, and carved it into something real and tangible. 

You did it once, now it’s time to do it again. 

Start by thinking about your brand - What do you offer that makes you memorable? Then, consider those as you brainstorm quarantine-friendly, on-brand ways to pivot.  

• Are you quirky? Host a bidding war for the naming privileges of items on your quarantine takeout menu. “For $100 we’ll name the sloppy joe after your ex - boyfriend.” Or give away a free roll of toilet paper with every order, the options are limitless! 

• Are you philanthropic? Donate a meal for every meal purchased to the local hospital or offer a discount for people in the industry that have been affected.  

• Are you upscale? Offer cocktail kits from your bar or limited batches of your iconic dessert for pick-up; or, be a trailblazer and launch a new genre of high-end takeout.

• Are you casual? Compile quaint, pre-made picnic baskets for a fun, day date option.

Don’t be afraid to think waaay outside the box. These are unprecedented times and anything goes. 

Are you having trouble coming up with ideas? Do your research about what others are doing in your industry. Reach out to local businesses that are doing well and ask them for advice or brainstorm ways to partner with them. It might sound counter-intuitive, but now is the time to set aside competitive egos to help one another out. 

The success of one small business raises the industry as a whole.

CONNECT WITH YOUR CUSTOMERS

Just because your open sign is turned off, or you’re open for fewer hours, it doesn’t mean you can’t still be with your customers. 

Many restaurants have started hosting virtual happy hours, encouraging attendees to ‘tip their bartender’ on PayPal or Venmo. Others have streamed virtual cooking or bartending classes, allowing chefs and bartenders to use the vacant restaurant as a studio. 

If you own a retail business like a clothing boutique, ask your employees to do Instagram LIVE takeovers. Take this time to create your style-guides for summer, or host a virtual meetup and interview a wardrobe stylist. 

Finding creative ways to help your employees and connect with your customers right now is imperative to the long-term success of your business. The more visible you can be during this time, the better. 

A few additional tips:

• Be transparent about cleaning procedures. It’s all about building trust. Your customers are concerned for their safety - Tell them about everything you’re doing to keep them safe. 

• Remind them what you offer. Do you have a special takeout menu? Meal kits to-go? Are you selling groceries now too? Encourage customers to order from your menu, snag their enchilada meal kit before inventory runs out, or buy their milk, eggs, avocados, and toilet paper (always toilet paper) from you. Announce what you offer clearly and often. 

• Tell them how they can support you. Your local patrons want to support you during this time. It’s up to you to tell them exactly how to do that. 

• Get creative when beginning to open your business back up. Beginning to open your doors doesn’t have to look like it did before COVID-19. You may be dealing with the challenge of having fewer employees or may simply be uncomfortable opening your doors all the way just yet. If you’re a restaurant, consider offering reservation-only dining so you can limit capacity to ensure careful distancing and extensive cleaning procedures. If you’re a boutique, consider offering appointment-only shopping experiences - make them special by offering a fun beverage and/or personal styling assistance. 

As you go through all your online platforms, pay close attention to your images.

CREATE (AND AUDIT) CONTENT

This is a great time to think deeply about your content; I recommend starting with a content audit. Comb through your online presence and make a list of anything that has slipped between the cracks. 

Take note:

• From your website to social media to yelp page, etc. -  Is your brand consistent? 

• Is your website modern and up-to-date or does it need a refresh?

• Have you made an online store for your merch?

• When was the last time you sent out a newsletter?

• When was the last time you posted a blog?

• When was the last time you posted on social media?

Take stock of your online brand and think about any gaps in content or areas that need to be polished up. The great news is that many of these tasks require nothing more than a little time and elbow grease (if you’re reading this, my guess is, you have both).

As you go through all your online platforms, pay close attention to your images. The impact of professional on-brand images is huge. Your photos either support your branding or distract from it entirely. 

Here are some considerations:

• Are the images on-brand? 

• Are the mood, color palette, and style consistent?

• Are the images unique and interesting?

• Do the images tell a story?

If you have stock images on your website or are still using an iPhone 4 to take social media images, I highly recommend taking this opportunity to clean up your content; whether that means spending dedicated time archiving photos that aren’t on brand, snapping fresh content, or (even better) hiring a professional to develop a library of on-brand images that will make your social media and website come alive.

If you are interested in working with a professional photographer, contact me to learn more about my social-distancing-approved options!  

SET DAILY GOALS

To be clear, this is not about productivity. This is about digging deep and recognizing that you have a say in how this goes. It’s about deciding where you want to focus your energy to get exactly what you want out of this time. 

Some of you are fired up to rewrite your business plan, bake a hundred loaves of bread, and learn a new language. But for many of you, learning to slow down, take a nap in the middle of the day, and not be productive is the personal ‘win’ you really need. 

The important part isn’t to ‘be productive’, it's to set achievable goals every day that will help keep you stay grounded and grow in the ways you need the most.

STAY CALM & TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Isolation, interruption to routine, and lack of daily structure can really affect your mental health. If you’ve suddenly found yourself without a job, it’s so important that you stay vigilant to defend against the physical and psychological toll that this can take on your health. 

While I’ve given you a number of ways to grow yourself and your business during this time, I want to remind you to keep everything in perspective and remember that your number one goal right now is to stay healthy. 

Get plenty of rest, eat healthy food, drink water, take your vitamins. Block out time for a virtual yoga class or a long walk in the sunshine, start a journal, reach out to family or friends often, and especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Allow yourself to feel whatever you’re feeling and know that you are doing everything right.

The best way to keep your immunity high is to keep calm and take care of yourself; body, mind, and spirit.

So there you have it, my 5 tips for growing during a pandemic. Clearly, this list is not exhaustive; in fact, one of the most incredible lessons in this is realizing that nothing is promised and everything is possible. My hope for you is that you’ll take this time to think deeply about your business and make the choice to take an active role in how this plays out. 

Above all else, I hope that you’ll be patient and compassionate with yourself, lift up small business owners in your community, and stay open to any new opportunities that may arise during this strange time. 

Over the next few months, I’ll be sharing helpful resources (like this one) for restaurant owners, small business owners, and foodies of all flavors! Upcoming topics include a free mood board and branding ebook you won’t want to miss. If you haven’t yet, sign up for my newsletter to get all of it sent straight to your inbox.