Question 1

What is the best lens for shooting modern Mexican dishes?

Accepted Answer

We recommend a 100mm f/2.8 Macro lens. This allows you to get incredibly close to the textures—like the intricate patterns on a blue corn tortilla—while providing a flattering compression that makes the dish look prominent and appetizing. A 50mm prime is also excellent for overhead flat lays.

Question 2

Can I use natural light for a contemporary look?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it must be controlled. We’ve found that shooting near a north-facing window provides the soft, directional light that defines this style. However, you must use reflectors or 'v-flats' to fill in deep shadows or create 'negative fill' to maintain the high-contrast, modern edge.

Question 3

Does AI replace the need for a traditional food stylist?

Accepted Answer

AI is a powerful tool for concepting and generating background elements, but it has limitations. While it can create stunning visual approximations, it often struggles with the specific 'physics' of certain sauces or the exact layering of a chef's proprietary recipe. It's best used as a supplement to human creativity.

Question 4

How do I make sauces look appetizing in photos?

Accepted Answer

In Contemporary Mexican Food Photography, sauce texture is everything. We suggest using a brush to apply a thin layer of oil to the surface of a mole or salsa right before the shot. This creates a specular highlight that suggests freshness and richness without making the dish look greasy.

Question 5

What are the most 'on-trend' colors for Mexican food backdrops?

Accepted Answer

Our experience shows that 'Talavera Blue' is making a comeback in a modern way—not as busy patterns, but as solid, matte surfaces. Deep forest greens and charcoal blacks are also highly effective, as they provide a dramatic stage for the reds, yellows, and oranges common in Mexican cuisine.

Question 6

Is it better to shoot from a 45-degree angle or a flat lay?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the dish's architecture. For a multi-layered taco or a stacked dessert, 45 degrees is superior for showing height. For a spread of small plates or 'botanas,' the 90-degree flat lay is the hallmark of modern, graphic food photography.

Question 7

How many props should I use in a shot?

Accepted Answer

For the contemporary look, limit yourself to 1-3 props. Choose high-quality, artisanal items like a hand-woven napkin or a piece of raw obsidian. Every item in the frame must serve a purpose and direct the eye back to the food, never away from it.

The Art of Contemporary Mexican Food Photography