Question 1

How do I capture the steam rising from the miso soup?

Accepted Answer

Steam is best captured against a dark background with backlighting. We've found that using a small handheld steamer or even a carefully placed incense stick just before the shot can enhance the effect. You need a shutter speed of at least 1/160s to freeze the movement of the steam without it becoming a blurry white mess.

Question 2

Which lens is best for a full tray shot?

Accepted Answer

A 35mm lens is excellent for wide environmental shots of the entire table, but for a standard Japanese breakfast tray, a 50mm 'nifty fifty' is our preferred tool. It provides a natural perspective similar to the human eye, ensuring the proportions of the bowls and the tray remain realistic and appetizing.

Question 3

How can I make the white rice look more appetizing?

Accepted Answer

White rice can easily look like a flat white blob. To prevent this, use side lighting to create tiny shadows between the grains. In post-processing, slightly increase the 'whites' while lowering the 'highlights.' We also recommend photographing the rice last, as it loses its glossy sheen very quickly once it starts to cool.

Question 4

Is AI photography better than a traditional photoshoot?

Accepted Answer

AI is incredible for rapid concepting and generating high-aesthetic mockups without the cost of a studio. However, it currently has limitations with specific cultural accuracy—like the exact fold of a tamagoyaki or the specific texture of fermented beans. We find a hybrid approach works best: use AI for social media filler and marketing concepts, but use real photography for your actual menu.

Question 5

What is the best time of day to shoot food?

Accepted Answer

If you are using natural light, the 'blue hour' just after sunrise or the first two hours of the morning are ideal. This light is naturally soft and cool, which perfectly matches the calm, revitalizing mood of a traditional Japanese breakfast. Avoid high noon, as the vertical light creates harsh, unappealing shadows inside the bowls.

Question 6

How do I handle the 'clutter' of so many small dishes?

Accepted Answer

The key is 'structured chaos.' Use the tray as your frame. We recommend aligning the edges of the small plates (mame-zara) to a central axis or a slight curve. This creates a sense of intentionality. If a shot feels too busy, try removing one dish and replacing it with 'negative space'—an empty part of the tray that allows the eye to rest.

Question 7

Do I need a tripod for food photography?

Accepted Answer

In our experience, a tripod is non-negotiable for professional work. It allows you to lock in your composition and make micro-adjustments to the food styling without moving the camera. It also enables you to use slower shutter speeds in low-light morning settings without introducing camera shake, resulting in much cleaner images.

Mastering Professional Japanese Breakfast Photography