Question 1

What is the best lens for Flat Lay Japanese Food Photography?

Accepted Answer

We recommend a 50mm or 85mm prime lens on a full-frame sensor. These focal lengths offer a natural perspective and minimal distortion. If you are shooting in tight spaces, a 35mm might be tempting, but it can cause 'barrel distortion' at the edges, making your rectangular trays look curved. For macro details of sushi, a 100mm macro lens is our go-to choice.

Question 2

How do I deal with reflections on soup and sauces?

Accepted Answer

Reflections are common in Japanese cuisine due to broths and glazes. We suggest using a circular polarizer filter on your lens to cut through the glare. Additionally, placing a small black 'flag' (a piece of cardboard) near the dish can help block light from hitting the liquid at an angle that creates a harsh reflection.

Question 3

Does AI photography work for Japanese food?

Accepted Answer

AI has made massive strides in generating realistic food textures, and we find it incredibly useful for conceptualizing layouts or creating backgrounds. However, we must be honest about its limitations: AI often fails to understand the specific cultural 'grammar' of Japanese plating—such as the correct placement of chopsticks or the specific way ginger is julienned. For authentic branding, a hybrid approach is best.

Question 4

How many light sources do I need?

Accepted Answer

In our experience, a single large light source (side-lit) supplemented by a white bounce card on the opposite side is usually sufficient for a clean, professional look. This mimics the natural light coming through a window, which aligns with the Japanese aesthetic of simplicity and natural beauty.

Question 5

What are the most common mistakes in flat lay photography?

Accepted Answer

The biggest mistake we see is 'cluttering'. People often add too many props like cherry blossoms or bamboo mats that distract from the food. Another common error is not having the camera perfectly level; even a 2-degree tilt can make the soup in a bowl look like it's about to spill out of the frame.

Question 6

How can I make my rice look fresh in photos?

Accepted Answer

Rice loses its luster quickly as it cools. We recommend lightly misting the rice with a water spray right before clicking the shutter. Professional stylists often use a 'stand-in' bowl for lighting setup and only bring out the fresh, steaming rice at the very last moment to capture that perfect pearlescent quality.

Mastering Flat Lay Japanese Food Photography