Question 1

What is the best lens for contemporary burger shots?

Accepted Answer

We highly recommend a 100mm f/2.8 Macro lens. This focal length allows you to capture incredible detail of the meat's texture and the bun's grain without getting too close and casting shadows. If you are on a budget, an 85mm prime lens is a fantastic alternative that provides a similar compression and beautiful background blur.

Question 2

Do I need expensive studio lights for this style?

Accepted Answer

While high-end strobes offer more control, we’ve found that you can achieve a contemporary look using a single off-camera speedlight and a large softbox. The key isn't the price of the light, but the direction. Aim for side-backlighting to create the highlights and shadows that give the burger its three-dimensional form.

Question 3

How do you make the cheese look so perfect?

Accepted Answer

The secret we use is a small handheld clothes steamer. Once the burger is stacked, we hold the steamer near the cheese for just a few seconds. This allows the cheese to soften and drape naturally over the patty without overcooking the meat or wilting the lettuce beneath it.

Question 4

Can I use AI to help with my Contemporary Burger Photography?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but with caveats. We use AI tools for background replacement and cleaning up minor imperfections on the bun. However, AI often struggles with the 'physics' of food—like the way sauce drips or the organic randomness of lettuce. It’s best used as a finishing tool rather than a replacement for the initial capture.

Question 5

Why does my burger look flat in photos?

Accepted Answer

Flatness usually comes from front-facing light. To fix this, move your light source to the side or slightly behind the burger. This creates shadows that define the shape. Additionally, ensure you are shooting from a low angle; shooting from above tends to compress the layers and make the burger look smaller.

Question 6

Should I use real food or fake props?

Accepted Answer

In Contemporary Burger Photography, authenticity is king. We always use real food, but we 'undercook' certain elements. For example, we barely sear the patty to keep it looking plump and juicy, and we use cold vegetables so they stay crisp under the hot studio lights. This results in a much more believable and appetizing image.

Question 7

What is the ideal aperture for these shots?

Accepted Answer

Our experience shows that f/4 to f/5.6 is the sweet spot. While f/1.8 looks artistic, it often leaves too much of the burger blurry. At f/4, you get a sharp 'hero' point (like the front of the patty) while still enjoying a soft background that makes the burger stand out from the environment.

Mastering Contemporary Burger Photography