Question 1

What is the best lens for this style?

Accepted Answer

We highly recommend a 50mm f/1.8 or an 85mm prime lens. These lenses are excellent for Casual French Food Photography because they allow you to isolate the dish from the background. The 50mm is great for 'table-top' shots, while the 85mm provides beautiful compression for close-up texture shots of pastries or cheeses.

Question 2

Can I use AI to generate these images?

Accepted Answer

AI is a powerful tool for brainstorming and creating quick social media placeholders, and we find it incredibly useful for generating backgrounds. However, it currently has limitations with hyper-specific textures like the exact lamination of a croissant or the unique marble of a French bleu cheese. It’s best used as a supplement to real photography.

Question 3

Do I need a professional studio?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. In fact, we’ve found that most iconic casual French shots are taken in real restaurants or kitchens. The authenticity of a real bistro table or a marble countertop far outweighs the benefits of a sterile studio environment. All you truly need is a good window and a tripod.

Question 4

How do I make the food look fresh for longer?

Accepted Answer

Speed is your friend. We suggest 'pre-lighting' the scene with a stand-in plate. Once the lighting is perfect, bring out the actual dish. For salads, a light misting of water mixed with a tiny bit of lemon juice can keep greens looking vibrant under the lens for up to 20 minutes.

Question 5

Should I use a tripod or shoot handheld?

Accepted Answer

While handheld shooting allows for more creative angles and a 'spontaneous' feel, we recommend a tripod for low-light situations. This allows you to use a slower shutter speed without introducing camera shake, ensuring that the intricate details of a Boeuf Bourguignon stay perfectly sharp.

Question 6

What are the most important props for a French look?

Accepted Answer

Keep it simple and classic. We suggest using unbleached linen napkins, vintage bistro-style glassware, and wooden cutting boards. Avoid anything too modern or plastic. A simple bottle of Perrier or a small ceramic salt cellar can add just the right amount of context to the scene.

Question 7

How do I handle white plates without blowing out the highlights?

Accepted Answer

White plates can be tricky. We recommend slightly underexposing the shot to preserve the detail in the porcelain. You can always bring the shadows up in editing. Alternatively, use 'off-white' or 'eggshell' ceramics which are much more forgiving under bright light.

Mastering Casual French Food Photography for Your Brand