Question 1

What is the best lens for flat lay photography?

Accepted Answer

We've found that a 50mm 'nifty fifty' is the gold standard for full-frame cameras. It provides a natural perspective without the 'fisheye' distortion seen in wider lenses. If you are shooting in a tight space, a 35mm lens is a great alternative, though you must be careful to keep your camera perfectly level to avoid skewing the edges of your plates.

Question 2

How do I stop my shadows from looking too dark?

Accepted Answer

In our experience, the key is using a 'fill' source. You don't need a second light; a simple piece of white foam core placed opposite your main light source will bounce enough light back into the shadows. This softens the contrast and ensures that the dark beans or rich mole sauces still show their appetizing texture.

Question 3

Can I use AI to generate these types of images?

Accepted Answer

AI is a powerful tool for generating backgrounds or concept art, and it's excellent for rapid prototyping. However, we must be honest: AI often struggles with the specific 'messiness' of authentic Mexican food, like the exact way a salsa verde sits on a corn tortilla. For high-end menus, AI is best used as a supplement to real photography rather than a total replacement.

Question 4

How do I keep the cilantro from looking wilted in photos?

Accepted Answer

This is a common struggle. Our secret is to keep the herbs in ice water until the very moment you are ready to press the shutter. Pat them dry quickly and place them on the dish last. If you are shooting for a long period, a light mist of water can help, but nothing beats the vibrancy of fresh-cut greens.

Question 5

Should I include people's hands in the flat lay?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We call this 'human element' photography. A hand reaching for a chip or squeezing a lime adds a sense of action and scale. It transforms a static product shot into a lifestyle image that feels relatable and inviting to the viewer, which often leads to higher engagement on social platforms.

Question 6

What f-stop should I use for overhead shots?

Accepted Answer

We recommend staying between f/4 and f/8. While a very wide aperture like f/1.8 is popular for portraits, it often creates a depth of field that is too shallow for flat lays, causing the edges of a bowl or the garnishes on top to fall out of focus. You want the entire 'plane' of the food to be sharp.

Question 7

How do I deal with reflections on greasy food or shiny plates?

Accepted Answer

Mexican food can be oily, which creates harsh 'hot spots' under bright lights. We've found that using a polarizing filter on your lens can significantly reduce these reflections. Alternatively, adjusting the angle of your light or using a larger diffuser will spread the light more evenly, making the highlights look more natural.

Mastering Flat Lay Mexican Food Photography