How to Style a Plated Dish for Your Food Photography Session
Food photography has taken the world by storm, thanks to social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. Behind every mouth-watering photo is not just a well-cooked dish but also the magic of styling it for the camera. Whether you’re a food blogger, a chef aiming to showcase your work, or just someone who loves to share what’s on their plate, knowing how to style your dish can make a world of difference. Here’s a simple guide to styling a plated dish for your next food photography session.
1. Choose the Right Plate or Dish
Before you even think about the food, consider what you’re going to put it on. The plate or dish can significantly affect how your food looks. Opt for plain, neutral-colored plates that make the colors of the food pop. White is a classic choice, but soft pastels or dark colors like slate gray can also create a striking contrast. Remember, the focus should be on the food, so avoid plates with busy patterns or designs.
2. Think About Composition
Just like in any visual art, composition matters in food photography. Before you start plating, think about how you want to arrange your dish. Do you want a minimalist look with plenty of negative space, or do you prefer a more organic, crowded setup? Consider the rule of thirds and balance in your composition for a more aesthetically pleasing plate.
3. Play with Textures and Layers
The visual appeal of your dish can greatly increase by adding various textures and layers. For example, a creamy soup looks much more enticing with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of herbs, or some croutons on top. If you have a dish with a variety of components, like a burger, play with the layering to create height and interest. These little details can make a big difference in your photo.
4. Use Fresh Ingredients as Garnishes
Fresh ingredients can add a pop of color and life to your dish. A sprig of fresh herbs, a slice of lemon, or a few fresh berries can be the perfect final touch. It’s not just about making the plate look better; these garnishes can also hint at the flavors in the dish, making the photo even more appetizing.
5. Be Mindful of Color
Color can evoke emotions and affect how appetizing your dish looks. Using contrasting colors can make your dish stand out, while complementary colors can create a harmonious look. For instance, the bright green of basil can make a tomato sauce dish more vibrant. Pay attention to the colors of your ingredients and how they work together on the plate.
6. Lighting is Key
Even the best-styled dish can look unappetizing with poor lighting. Natural light is your best friend in food photography, so try to set up your shoot near a window with lots of indirect sunlight. This will highlight the textures and colors of your food in the most flattering way.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Rearrange
Once you start taking pictures, you might notice things you didn’t before. Maybe a garnish is out of place, or there’s too much negative space on one side of the plate. Don’t be afraid to stop and rearrange things. The beauty of food photography is that you can adjust as you go until you get the perfect shot.
8. Keep It Real
One of the charms of food photography is its ability to tease the senses, making the viewer almost taste the dish through the photo. To achieve this, your dish needs to look real and achievable. It’s tempting to go overboard with styling, but sometimes, less is more. A slightly messy, authentic look can be more appealing than a perfectly styled but unapproachable dish.
Styling a plated dish for photography might seem daunting at first, but with practice, you’ll start to see what works and what doesn’t. Remember, the goal is to make the viewer’s mouth water, so have fun with it and let your creativity shine through. With these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning, delicious-looking photos that could grace the pages of any food magazine.