Question 1

How do I make brown stews like Ropa Vieja look appetizing?

Accepted Answer

Brown food is notoriously difficult to photograph. Our experience shows that adding a 'hero garnish'—like bright green peas, fresh parsley, or a sliver of red pimiento—is essential. Use side-lighting to create highlights on the sauce, which prevents the dish from looking like a flat, dark mass. Macro shots that show the individual fibers of the beef also help convey texture.

Question 2

What is the best camera angle for a Cuban sandwich?

Accepted Answer

The 45-degree angle is usually the winner for sandwiches. It allows the viewer to see the crusty texture of the Cuban bread on top while clearly seeing the melted cheese and layered meats inside. If you want to emphasize the size of the sandwich, a low-angle 'hero' shot can make the dish look monumental and filling.

Question 3

Can I use AI to generate Cuban Food Photography?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but with caveats. AI is incredible for creating high-end backgrounds or generating lifestyle scenes of people eating in a tropical setting. However, AI often struggles with the specific 'messy' authenticity of real Cuban food. We recommend using AI for the environment while keeping the actual food plate a real, high-resolution photograph to maintain trust and E-E-A-T standards.

Question 4

Why does my Cuban food look orange in photos?

Accepted Answer

This is usually a white balance issue. Cuban restaurants often have warm, yellow indoor lighting. We suggest shooting in RAW format so you can adjust the white balance in post-production. Aim for a 'neutral-warm' look; you want the yellow of the yellow rice to pop, but you don't want the white rice or the plate to look like they are under a heat lamp.

Question 5

What props should I use for an authentic look?

Accepted Answer

Avoid generic kitchenware. Instead, look for wooden mortar and pestles (pilón), vintage soda bottles (like Ironbeer or Materva), or plates with traditional Spanish floral patterns. These items provide a sense of place and time, telling a story that goes beyond the food itself. Even a simple burlap runner can evoke the feeling of a rural Cuban 'finca'.

Question 6

How long does a typical food photography session take?

Accepted Answer

For a standard Cuban menu of 10-12 items, we typically spend 4 to 6 hours. This includes setup, styling each dish, and adjusting lighting for different textures (e.g., the matte finish of beans versus the shiny glaze of a flan). Speed is important, especially for hot food, so we often use 'stand-in' plates to perfect the lighting before the real dish comes out.

Mastering the Art of Cuban Food Photography