Essential equipment for great food photography and food styling

In the visually captivating world of food photography and styling, the right equipment makes all the difference between a stunning shot and a lackluster image.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring enthusiast, having the essential food photography and food styling tools at your disposal can elevate your images to new heights.

Here's a rundown of the key pieces of equipment I bring to my food photography and food styling and absolutely cannot live without:

1. Camera: investing in a high-quality DSLR or mirrorless camera is fundamental, and using manual settings to have full control over aperture, shutter speed, ISO and focus. This flexibility allows me to capture the perfect lighting and depth of field for client shots. I shoot with Canon equipment.

2. Lenses: A versatile lens collection is essential for capturing a variety of angles and compositions. I use my prime lens with a wide aperture (50mm f/1.8) is ideal for capturing those dreamy close-up shots with blurred backgrounds, as well as my 20-70mm for flexibility on depth of field. I haven't yet invested in a macro lens - normally used for capturing intricate details of food - but it's on my list!.

3. Tripod: Stability is key in food photography to ensure sharp, blur-free images. By investing in a sturdy tripod I can ensure my camera is held steady, especially for long exposures, shooting in low light conditions or for stop-motion/animated GIFs..

4. Lighting: Natural light is often preferred for its soft, flattering effect on food, but sometimes it's not readily available or consistent. I have a continuous lighting and a flash setup in my studio which means I can control and enhance the lighting in my scene at any time of the day.

5. Backdrop and surfaces: Choosing backdrops and surfaces that complement food, enhance its visual appeal and fit with the mood and colours is so important. I love textured wooden boards, linen cloths, marble slabs, or simple neutral backgrounds. I also love playing around with blocked colour. My go-to shops for backdrops in New Zealand are The Backdrop Shop and CM Props and Backdrops, and there are also plenty of great shops overseas too (though the postage can be a little pricey!)

6. Props: Props such as utensils, napkins, and decorative elements add depth and context food photos. Over time I've collected a variety of props in different styles, colors, and textures to match whatever mood or theme I'm shooting. Let's be honest... if I'm not in the studio photographing I'm probably out scouring op shops for more props!

7. Reflectors and diffusers: Reflectors and diffusers allow photographers to 'shape' the light on their scene. Having a range of different reflectors and diffusers means I can create most lighting 'looks', and gives me the ability to photograph in different styles.

8. Editing software: Post-processing is an essential step in fine-tuning my images and enhancing their visual impact. I use Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop to adjust colours, contrast, and sharpness to perfection.

9. Food styling tools: Tweezers, brushes, and spray bottles filled with water or oil can be invaluable for fine-tuning the appearance of food, adjusting its placement, and adding a fresh, appetising sheen so it looks it's absolute best on camera.

10. Patience and creativity: While not exactly tangible in the way of equipment, patience and creativity are perhaps the most critical assets for food photographers and stylists. Experimentation, careful attention to detail, and a willingness to think outside the box can lead to truly extraordinary images.

There's a lot more to food photography and styling than putting something on a plate, clicking the camera button and hoping for the best. When you work with me I bring all this and more to my work.