Question 1

What lens is best for overhead shots of sushi?

Accepted Answer

We recommend a 50mm or 85mm prime lens on a full-frame body. These focal lengths provide a natural perspective without the 'fish-eye' distortion of wider lenses. If you are shooting in a tight space, a 35mm can work, but you must be careful to keep the sensor perfectly level to avoid skewing the plate shapes.

Question 2

How do I deal with shadows when shooting from directly above?

Accepted Answer

Shadows are often caused by the camera or tripod blocking the light. We suggest placing your light source to the side or slightly behind the subject. Use a white foam board or 'bounce card' on the opposite side of the light to fill in deep shadows, ensuring the food remains bright and appetizing.

Question 3

Does AI-generated food photography look realistic for Japanese cuisine?

Accepted Answer

AI is excellent for conceptualizing layouts or creating backgrounds, but it currently has limitations with hyper-specific textures like the delicate 'tongues' of Uni (sea urchin) or the specific grain of high-quality sushi rice. For the most authentic brand representation, we believe a hybrid approach—using AI for inspiration and human photography for the final product—yields the best results.

Question 4

How do I prevent my overhead photos from looking 'flat' or boring?

Accepted Answer

Depth is created through texture and layers. We achieve this by using textured linens, matte-finish ceramics, and garnishes that have physical height. Even though the camera is at 90 degrees, the play of light and shadow on these textures creates a 3D feel that keeps the viewer engaged.

Question 5

What is the best background for Japanese food photography?

Accepted Answer

Neutral, natural materials work best. We've found that dark grey stone, light-colored Hinoki wood, or subtle linen textures complement the food without distracting from it. Avoid busy patterns that compete with the intricate plating often found in Japanese dishes.

Question 6

How do I capture steam in an overhead shot?

Accepted Answer

Steam is difficult to capture from 90 degrees because it often blends into the background or obscures the food. We recommend using a dark background and side-lighting (back-lighting the steam) to make it visible. You may also need a small fan to gently move the steam so it doesn't cloud the lens.

Mastering Overhead Japanese Food Photography