If there’s one thing most chefs will agree on, it’s that food is a visual medium. We draw them in with eye appeal, and let the flavors take it from there. And more and more, having a strong Instagram (IG) game is as important a tool as a sharp knife in your roll. We chatted up a couple of our favorite food photographers, Florida’s Libby Volges and San Francisco-based Kassie Borreson to get their tips for chefs taking food shots without all the fancy and expensive equipment, unless you count that exy iPhone.
“Bottom line, it’s marketing, both for yourself and your restaurant. That means it’s worth the investment of a little time, maybe a camera or a photography class.” -Kassie Borreson
Tip #1: It’s all about the light! Use natural light if possible, near a window. Food is portable, so take it where there’s the best light. It’s probably not in the kitchen, with all the fluorescent lights and stainless steel…and a dimly lit dining room isn’t likely either.
“If you remember nothing else, shoot in beautiful light.” -Libby Volges
Tip #2: Get in close! The extreme close up often does wonders to bring out the artistic qualities of a dish, and helps eliminate distractions and unnecessary props. Seeing the detail can emphasize what makes your dish delicious, not just pretty to look at.
Tip #3: Keep it clean. This means nothing extra on the plate or in the shot; from drips and smears to extra background objects. “Ask yourself ‘What’s the Feature’ or ‘What do I want to focus on’” says Kassie; “…it should really be just one or two elements.”
For shooting meat, Kassie advises shooting it quickly. Red meat will rapidly lose its appetite appeal on camera. You’re better off getting a new piece if you don’t get the shot you want.
Naturally, your mates here at True Aussie Beef & Lamb are a brilliant IG follow. Here are a couple of our favorite chefs whose IG game is also worth a squizz:
Friend of the show, Chef Aaron Brooks: https://www.instagram.com/chefaaronbrooks/
Chef Ethan Speizer: A Napa chef we got to know a bit ago. He does a nice job with a variety of styles, angles, and is damn good at making steaks look delicious: https://www.instagram.com/chefethanspeizer/
These Aussie blokes are pretty good too: https://www.instagram.com/_bbq_grill_/?hl=en