When it comes to photographing your food, deciding on the location is a key element in creating images that speak to your business and brand. A thoughtfully chosen location will help tell the story of your food and entice your target audience to place an order or come and dine with you. You want people to look at the images on your website and social media and feel connected. Not just a connection with your food, but an emotional connection to your business, what it offers and to who you are. These emotional connections to your target audience are immensely important in bringing customers back again and again. Thoughtful photos of your food is an easy way to start building that emotional connection! Luckily there are SO many options when it comes to choosing locations. It really depends on the business structure and needs and that is where an experienced food photographer can help!
Where to Stage Your Next Food Photoshoot:
1. Take Photos at Your Restaurant or Storefront!
If you have a storefront or restaurant space, this is a super easy way to tie in the aesthetics and message you’re already sharing with your community. Working in your own space gives your photographer the chance to hone in on details that make your space unique. Things like the textures of the tables, the kind of natural light, your glassware, silverware and plates. The color scheme and the window coverings. All of the little details you spent time handpicking when you started your business are an important part of your identity. Utilizing them in your photos helps to tell your story and strengthens your customer’s emotional connection to your space. Working on-site like this also provides the opportunity to engage your employees and show your space in action. Photos that include servers actively helping customers, happy people eating and enjoying your space and shots of hands with your product engage your viewers in a more personable way.
2. Take Photos in a Photography Studio!
Maybe you don’t have a brick and mortar space that you share with your customers- that’s okay! Utilizing a photography studio is a great way to showcase your food in a creative way, whether that be recipes and baked goods or even packaged foods like cereals, granolas, cheese and more! By working with an experienced photographer, you can align your branding with a thoughtful and strategic visual plan in the studio. This includes choosing backgrounds, colors, props and textiles that enhance your brand and tell your visual story. All of my studio bookings include a pre-session strategy meeting and access to my prop and background collection! Your can read more about my studio space here!
3. Take Photos in a Rented Studio Space!
Maybe you want something that shows more of a realistic lifestyle setting rather than just a small photography studio. There are lots of ways to find studios in your area, but I always tend to start on Peerspace! Here you can look through lots of different options in your area until you find a space that speaks to your brand. When looking into larger spaces like this, you want to consider all the different rooms, surfaces, window light and how you might be able to tie them in with your imagery.
Want to see more examples of sessions onsite? Check out Evolve Cafe, Maple Bar and Galloways! For more samples of studio work check out Lopez Island Creamery, Fidalgo Fudge and Holly’s Meat Pies!
Want to schedule your food photography session!? Click here and inquire today!
