Getting that perfect sprinkle shot brings so much life and movement to your images. It’s one of my favorite things to do when photographing food or product and can be used in tons of different situations from powdered sugar to maple syrup! Below are some tips I’ve learned on how to really master those sprinkles!
Tips to the Perfect Sprinkle Shot:
– Sprinkle shots are best taken at a 90 degree angle from your subject. This allows the movement of whatever you’re sprinkling or pouring to be the star of the frame.
– It can be fun to play around with a 45 degree angle and have the sprinkles coming from the corner of your frame as if it’s falling out of your camera (see below). The brings the hero of the frame back to the subject rather than the sprinkle itself.
– Think about the weight and texture of your sprinkles. If using something very fine like powdered sugar use a sifter to give an even, fluffy distribution of sugar. If using something chunky like pearl sugar, be sure you have a large enough scoop or handful for a constant, steady stream before you begin dropping.
– Add hands! Adding hands brings the viewer right into the image as if they were there sprinkling themselves.
– Move the sprinkles back and forth. This works best for dry subjects like sugar and spices rather than liquid like syrup or dressing. If you move your sifter or hands back and forth while dropping you will get beautiful movement throughout the entire frame!
– Try using a contrasting background to make those sprinkles POP!
– If using something like a syrup, honey or dressing, try pouring it all in the same spot to get that piled effect!
Good luck and HAVE FUN! Don’t be afraid to play <3
