Question 1

How do you make saffron rice look vibrant without it looking fake?

Accepted Answer

The key is in the lighting and white balance. We avoid using direct flash, which flattens the color. Instead, we use diffused natural light and set a custom white balance using a grey card. In post-production, we target the 'HLS' (Hue, Saturation, Luminance) sliders, specifically shifting the yellow hue slightly toward orange to mimic the real-world look of high-grade Sargol saffron.

Question 2

What is the best lens for shooting Persian stews like Ghormeh Sabzi?

Accepted Answer

We recommend a 100mm f/2.8 Macro lens. Persian stews can often look 'flat' or messy in wide-angle shots. A macro lens allows us to get close to the ingredients—the kidney beans, the dried lime, and the herbs—creating a beautiful 'bokeh' or blurred background that highlights the texture of the main ingredients.

Question 3

Can I use AI to generate Iranian Food Photography?

Accepted Answer

While AI is a powerful tool for generating concepts or filling in backgrounds, it currently struggles with the specific 'fractal' patterns of authentic Persian rice and the exact herb-to-meat ratio of traditional stews. We use AI to enhance existing photos or generate inspiration, but for a menu, a real photo is still superior for cultural accuracy.

Question 4

How do you capture steam in a professional shot?

Accepted Answer

Steam is best captured against a dark background with heavy back-lighting. We often use a fast shutter speed (around 1/200th of a second) to 'freeze' the movement of the steam. In some cases, we use a handheld steamer behind the dish to ensure a consistent flow while we find the perfect angle.

Question 5

Should I use real food or 'fake' food for Persian photography?

Accepted Answer

In our experience, Persian food is so dependent on its natural oils and textures that 'fake' substitutes often look obvious. We always use real food but apply techniques like using cold water on herbs to keep them crisp or slightly under-cooking the rice so it stays firm under the hot studio lights.

Question 6

What is the most important prop for a Persian food shoot?

Accepted Answer

Texture is the most important 'prop.' A piece of torn Lavash bread or a small bowl of 'Sabzi Khordan' (fresh herbs) adds more life to the shot than any expensive plate. These elements signify the communal and fresh nature of the Iranian dining experience.

Question 7

How long does a professional food shoot typically take?

Accepted Answer

A dedicated session for a single hero dish can take 1-2 hours. This includes the 'hero' styling, lighting adjustments for different angles, and ensuring the garnish remains fresh. For a full menu, we usually plan for 5-7 dishes per day to maintain the highest quality standards.

Mastering The Art of Iranian Food Photography