Question 1

Is natural light or studio light better for main courses?

Accepted Answer

We've found that while natural light is beautiful and budget-friendly, studio lighting is superior for consistency. In a professional setting, you cannot wait for the sun to move. Using a diffused strobe allows us to maintain the exact same 'golden hour' look for every dish on your menu, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions outside.

Question 2

Should I use a smartphone for my main course photos?

Accepted Answer

While modern smartphones are impressive, they often use wide-angle lenses that distort the proportions of a plate. If you must use a phone, we suggest using the 2x or 3x 'portrait' lens and standing further back. However, for a professional menu, the depth of field and color science of a dedicated DSLR or mirrorless camera remain the gold standard.

Question 3

How do I make my food look hot in photos?

Accepted Answer

Steam is notoriously difficult to capture. We've found that backlighting is the secret; the light must pass through the steam to make it visible against a darker background. If the food has cooled, a handheld steamer or even a carefully placed incense stick can create a subtle, natural-looking vapor that suggests heat without obscuring the dish.

Question 4

What is the best background for Main Course Photography?

Accepted Answer

We recommend matte surfaces to avoid distracting glare. Dark grays, deep blues, or natural wood grains are excellent because they provide contrast against the typically warm tones of cooked food (browns, reds, yellows). Avoid busy patterns or high-gloss white plates if you are shooting under bright lights, as they can 'wash out' the highlights of the food.

Question 5

Can AI replace a professional food photographer?

Accepted Answer

AI is an incredible tool for brainstorming or creating conceptual marketing imagery, but it has limitations. Current AI struggles with 'brand accuracy'—it cannot perfectly replicate your specific chef's plating style or the exact ratio of ingredients in your signature dish. We believe AI is best used for background enhancement or creative inspiration rather than as a replacement for the actual plate.

Question 6

How many photos do I need per dish?

Accepted Answer

Our experience suggests a minimum of three: one 'hero' shot at 45 degrees, one overhead 'flat lay' for social media, and one tight 'macro' detail shot showing texture. This variety gives you the flexibility to use the images across different platforms, from tight crops in a delivery app to wide banners on a website.

Question 7

How long does a typical professional shoot take?

Accepted Answer

For high-quality results, we usually budget 30 to 45 minutes per dish. This allows time for the chef to plate the food perfectly, for us to adjust the lighting for that specific color palette, and to take several test shots. Rushing the process often leads to flat, uninspiring images that fail to capture the dish's true appeal.

The Art of Professional Main Course Photography