Question 1

Is hard light better than soft light for contemporary shots?

Accepted Answer

There isn't a 'better' option, but they serve different moods. We’ve found that hard light is currently very trendy for its high-fashion, summery vibe, while soft light remains the standard for creating a comforting, approachable atmosphere. For a truly contemporary feel, we often suggest experimenting with hard light to create dramatic, architectural shadows.

Question 2

What is the best camera lens for food photography?

Accepted Answer

In our studio, we swear by the 100mm macro lens. It allows you to get incredibly close to the textures of the food while providing a beautiful, natural bokeh that separates the dish from the background. If you’re in a tighter space, a 50mm prime is a versatile second choice, but avoid wide-angle lenses as they distort the proportions of the plate.

Question 3

Can I achieve a professional look with a smartphone?

Accepted Answer

While modern smartphones have impressive sensors, they often struggle with the depth of field and 'natural' look of a DSLR. However, you can mimic the contemporary style by using natural side-lighting from a window and using the 'Portrait' mode carefully. We recommend using a tripod even with a phone to ensure perfect sharpness and consistent framing across your gallery.

Question 4

How many props should I use in a contemporary shoot?

Accepted Answer

The 'less is more' philosophy is vital here. We typically recommend no more than two or three carefully selected items, such as a single high-quality napkin, a designer fork, or one raw ingredient. Every prop must earn its place; if it doesn't add to the story of the dish's origin or flavor, we remove it to maintain that clean, modern edge.

Question 5

Does AI photography replace the need for a stylist?

Accepted Answer

Not entirely. While we use AI to generate stunning backgrounds and enhance lighting, AI often struggles with the 'physics' of food, like the way a sauce drips or how a garnish sits. We believe the best results come from a hybrid approach: human styling for the food itself, and AI tools for the environment and post-production polish.

Question 6

What are the best colors for backdrops?

Accepted Answer

We’ve found that neutral grays, muted beiges, and deep charcoals are the most versatile. They don't reflect unwanted colors onto the food. However, for a bold contemporary look, using a backdrop that is a darker shade of the food’s primary color (monochromatic) can create a very high-end, editorial feel that stands out in a crowded feed.

Question 7

How do I make my food look fresh for a long shoot?

Accepted Answer

We use a few industry secrets: a light mist of water can revive wilting greens, and brushing a bit of vegetable oil onto meats can restore that 'just-cooked' glisten. However, the most important tip we can share is preparation. Have your lighting and camera settings dialed in using a 'stand-in' plate so the real dish only sits under the lights for a few minutes.

Mastering Contemporary Food Photography for Modern Brands