Our previous article discussed a wide range of food photography tips, many of which remain relevant when traveling. However, when you’re on the go, you often have less control over the presentation of the food you photograph.Here are some tips to help you make the best out of it.
1. Natural light
If you are interested in any kind of photography this tip is for you. You can also ask to sit at a table with a view or outside, if you have the option. Book the restaurant in advance to ensure you get natural light.
2. Shoot local delicacies
If you are able, try to capture the local specialties in their natural environment. To get a culinary experience and subjects for photos, explore the local markets. Use what you can find as a ‘prop’.
While you are there, take pictures of all the spices, colors, and ingredients. You can add more stories and details to your photos by doing this.
3. Eliminate distractions
The focus can be taken away by too many objects in the picture. Leave out the glass sauce bottles and cutlery if they don’t contribute to the picture.
4. Take a picture of the food experience
Food images can look better when eaten or half-eaten, and if they include a person. Photograph the meat being removed from the inside of the steak, or the scone being sliced with cream and jam. Take photos of the hands reaching out for the food at the table or lifting the noodles with chopsticks.
The human element and the eating experience can add a dynamic touch to otherwise boring pictures of unattended food.
5. Catch the chefs in action
You can often see cooks at work when you visit the local market. You can watch them prepare food with great skill. If you capture this on camera, it will be a fascinating experience for those that see your pictures.