She Strengthens

The Secret to Stunning Food Photography: 6 Essential Resources

When it comes to food blogging, photography is key. High-quality images can make or break the success of your blog, and it’s no secret that people are drawn to visually appealing content. As someone who has seen firsthand the impact of improved photography on blog traffic, I’m excited to share the most valuable investments I’ve made in my own photography journey.

Elevate Your Backdrops

One of the most significant factors in developing the look and feel of my photos has been investing in quality wooden photo backdrops. While I may not be handy enough to craft them myself, I’ve found an excellent solution in Erickson Wood Works. Their custom-made boards are stunning, and with the option to choose two sides per board, I can easily switch up my aesthetic. Plus, with a 10% discount using the code “LONGRUNNER,” it’s a worthwhile investment for any food blogger.

Upgrade Your Camera

It may seem obvious, but a DSLR camera is a must-have for any serious food blogger. While it’s not necessary for social media-only photography, it’s essential for capturing high-quality images that will elevate your blog. I use a Nikon D3100, which has been an excellent first DSLR to learn on. With its lightweight design and ease of use, it’s perfect for capturing beautiful images.

Props: The Finishing Touch

Props are an essential element in food photography, and I love experimenting with different items to find the perfect combination. From wooden spoons to marble slabs, the right props can make all the difference in creating a visually appealing image. My go-to prop shopping spots include Christmas Tree Shops, Home Goods, Target, and Sur la Table, where I can find affordable and unique items to add to my collection.

Research and Practice

As a self-taught photographer, research has been instrumental in improving my skills. From online tutorials to photography books like Plate to Pixel, I’ve devoured every resource I can find to learn new techniques and stay up-to-date on the latest trends. Some of my favorite online resources include Food Photography Basics, Sally’s Baking Addiction, and Gimme Some Oven.

Editing Essentials

When it comes to editing, Photoshop is worth every penny. Not only is it an essential tool for photographers, but it’s also a game-changer for creating custom graphics for your recipes and blog. With a bit of a learning curve, it’s definitely worth the investment. For those looking for more accessible editing options, I recommend Snapseed, VSCOcam, Afterlight, and PicTapGo.

Time and Perseverance

Finally, the most valuable resources of all: time and perseverance. As a food blogger, it’s essential to make time for photography and to continually strive for improvement. Whether it’s carving out weekend mornings for shooting or taking the time to prepare and plan each shot, the best photos come from a strong vision and a willingness to learn and adapt. By combining these essential resources, you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning food photography that will elevate your blog and draw in readers.