Food Photography Tips: Lighting

As a professional food photographer, I cannot stress enough how important lighting is when it comes to capturing beautiful and enticing food photos. If you're using available indoor lighting to photograph food, you're setting yourself up for disappointment. The lighting in most indoor spaces is not controlled and comes from all directions, which can lead to unappetizing and unattractive photos. In fact, using indoor lighting can often taint the colors of the food, resulting in a lackluster final image.

I've seen so many food businesses try to take their own photos using the latest mobile phones and indoor lighting, and the results are almost always disappointing. These photos look unappetizing, and they're a major turn-off for potential customers. The truth is, indoor lighting is often designed to make a room look attractive, not to photograph food. If you want to capture mouthwatering photos of your dishes, you need to take control of the lighting.

One of the best ways to do this is by using artificial lighting. I use a combination of softbox lights, ring lights, and other types of lighting to create the perfect environment for each shot. By using these tools, I can adjust the light to create the perfect balance of shadows and highlights, and I can manipulate the light to highlight certain aspects of the dish. This allows me to create a controlled environment that brings out the best in the food, resulting in stunning and appetizing photos.

In summary, if you want to capture beautiful and enticing photos of your food, you need to invest in proper lighting equipment. Using available indoor lighting is a recipe for disappointment, and it can result in unappetizing and unattractive photos. Instead, take control of the lighting and bring out the best in your dishes. Your customers will thank you for it!

Your Investment In Me

Here are 20 reasons why you should invest in me and my photography business:-

1. I bring a unique perspective to commercial photography, drawing inspiration from my background in fine art and my passion for capturing the beauty of food, hospitality, branding, and interiors.

2. My approach is highly collaborative, working closely with clients to understand their vision and bring it to life through stunning and compelling imagery.

3. With years of experience in the industry, I have a deep understanding of the needs and expectations of clients in the food, hospitality, branding, and interiors space, allowing me to deliver exceptional results every time.

4. I have a keen eye for detail, capturing the small nuances that make a big difference in the final product, whether it's the texture of a dish or the intricate design of a hotel lobby.

5. I am passionate about storytelling through photography, creating images that not only look beautiful but also communicate a message and tell a story.

6. My background in fine art gives me a unique perspective on composition, lighting, and color, allowing me to create images that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also emotionally resonant.

7. I am dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in the industry, ensuring that my work is always fresh, innovative, and relevant.

8. I understand the importance of branding and how imagery plays a crucial role in communicating brand values and messaging to customers.

9. I have a deep appreciation for the art of food and drink, and I am passionate about capturing the beauty and intricacy of these subjects in my photography.

10. I have a keen understanding of the unique challenges of photographing in the hospitality industry, from working with tight schedules to capturing the right ambiance in a hotel or restaurant.

11. I am committed to delivering exceptional customer service, always going above and beyond to ensure my clients are happy with the final product.

12. I have a strong network of contacts in the industry, including chefs, restaurateurs, and hoteliers, allowing me to provide valuable insight and connections to my clients.

13. I am dedicated to using the latest technology and equipment to ensure that my work is of the highest quality and meets the demanding standards of the industry.

14. I am passionate about supporting local businesses and using my photography to help them succeed and grow.

15. I am committed to sustainability and ethical business practices, minimizing waste and always striving to reduce my environmental impact.

16. I have a deep understanding of the power of visual storytelling and how it can be used to create emotional connections with customers.

17. I am passionate about capturing the unique personality and character of each brand, creating images that reflect their values and messaging.

18. I am dedicated to delivering results that exceed expectations, always striving to push the boundaries of what is possible in commercial photography.

19. I am committed to ongoing learning and personal growth, always seeking out new techniques and approaches to improve my craft.

20. I am passionate about creating imagery that inspires, delights, and captivates viewers, using my unique art influences to set me apart from my competitors and deliver exceptional results to my clients.

Raymond Jones Images

Nan’s Summer Trifle

As a food and product photographer, I'm always on the lookout for new and creative ideas to incorporate into my work. In the past, I relied heavily on platforms like Pinterest to help me generate ideas before diving into the process of editing and post-production. However, ever since I discovered Midjourney, my workflow has completely changed.

One of my recent projects involved creating a medieval-style trifle with dramatic lighting, a shallow depth of field, and candles. I wasn't quite sure where to start, so I turned to Midjourney for inspiration. I simply typed in my desired keywords and within seconds, I was presented with a range of stunning images that perfectly captured the aesthetic I was going for.

The top two images and bottom left image caught my eye and helped me to visualize the direction I wanted to take with my own photo shoot. I was particularly drawn to the use of lighting and the way the candles created a warm, inviting atmosphere. Armed with this inspiration, I set to work creating my own version of this medieval trifle.

While the bottom right image was ultimately my own creation, it was heavily influenced by the ideas and inspiration I gleaned from Midjourney. It's amazing how a simple search can lead to such a wealth of creative ideas and possibilities. And while I know AI isn't perfect, what matters most to me is that it's given me a powerful starting point for my work.

I'm grateful and excited for the role AI has played in changing my workflow and helping me to achieve my creative vision. I look forward to continuing to use tools like Midjourney to push the boundaries of what's possible in my work as a photographer.

#inspired #commercial #photography

Food Photography Tips

Here are some tips on food photography based on my experience as a photographer:

1. Lighting is key: Good lighting is essential for any type of photography, but it's especially important for food photography. I prefer natural light, and I try to shoot near a window during the daytime. If you're shooting indoors, you can use artificial lights such as a softbox or umbrella to create a similar effect.

2. Use a tripod: A tripod is a must-have for food photography. It will help you keep your camera steady and ensure that your photos are sharp and in focus. It also gives you the flexibility to adjust your composition without having to worry about holding the camera steady.

3. Pay attention to composition: Composition is an important aspect of food photography. I like to think about the rule of thirds, and I try to create a balanced composition that draws the viewer's eye to the main subject of the photo.

4. Play with depth of field: Depth of field can be used to create a sense of depth and focus on the main subject of the photo. I often use a shallow depth of field to blur the background and make the food stand out.

5. Experiment with props: Props can add interest and texture to your food photos. I like to use simple props such as wooden boards, linen napkins, and cutlery.

6. Don't be afraid to edit: Editing can be used to enhance the colors and overall look of your photos. I like to use Lightroom or Photoshop to make adjustments such as adjusting the exposure, white balance, and saturation.

7. Practice, practice, practice: Like any skill, food photography takes practice. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. The more you practice, the better you'll become.

#food #photography #tips

We Are Becoming Celebrities In Our Own Right

I've always been fascinated with the idea of celebrity culture. Growing up, I was always drawn to the famous people on my TV screen or in magazines. But with the rise of social media, I've noticed a shift in the way we view and interact with celebrities. Now, it seems like we all have the potential to become mini-celebrities in our own right.

As someone who works in the business world, I've found that many of the people I look up to and admire are those who have made a name for themselves on social media platforms like LinkedIn. I've connected with numerous business leaders online, and have been able to learn from their insights and experiences.

Recently, I had the opportunity to meet one of these business leaders in person. It was a surreal experience, as I felt like I already knew so much about him from following his posts and updates on LinkedIn. But meeting him face-to-face allowed me to see the person behind the profile, and to gain an even deeper understanding of his perspective and approach to business.

As I reflect on this, it strikes me that social media has truly changed the way we view and interact with celebrities. It's no longer just about the famous people on our screens, but about the individuals in our own communities who are making a difference and inspiring us to be our best selves. And in a way, that's even more exciting and empowering than the traditional celebrity culture of the past.

Food Photography: Home Cooking

As a food and hospitality photographer, I'm always looking for ways to improve my skills and try out new techniques. However, when I'm on a shoot with a client, there isn't always time to experiment and play around with different lighting or composition ideas.

That's why I've found that home cooking is such a valuable tool for me. Even though I'm not a professional chef or cook, I know what visually looks appealing and can use that knowledge to create dishes that are not only tasty but also aesthetically pleasing.

When I'm photographing my homemade meals, I have the freedom to try out different lighting setups, experiment with composition, and play around with backgrounds and props. It's a low-pressure environment where I can take my time and really focus on honing my skills.

And the best part is, I can use these images in my portfolio or show them to clients as examples of my work. They may not be professional shoots, but they still showcase my abilities as a photographer and demonstrate my creativity and attention to detail and they are authentically me.

Home cooking has been an invaluable tool for me as a food and hospitality photographer. It allows me to practice and experiment in a low-pressure environment, and helps me to continue improving my skills and impressing my clients.

#homecooking #food #foodphotography #foodphotographer #authenticfood #foofiefeature #cheshire #northwales

Food Photography & Soft Lighting

It’s Pride month. A month to celebrate diversity and difference.

As a photographer, there's nothing I love more than capturing the perfect shot. One of my favorite subjects to photograph is food and products, especially under soft lighting. There's just something about the way the light falls on the subject that creates a dreamlike effect, especially during the summer months.

I find that using a shallow depth of field really helps to enhance the mood of the photo. By blurring out the background, the focus is solely on the subject, and it creates a sense of intimacy and closeness. It's almost like the viewer is right there with me, experiencing the beauty of the food or product firsthand.

To achieve this effect, I like to use natural light whenever possible. I find that it has a softer quality that really brings out the colours and textures of the subject. Of course, this can be a bit tricky during the middle of the day when the sun is at its brightest, so I'll often wait until the early morning or late afternoon when the light is a bit more subdued.

When it comes to composition, I like to keep things simple and clean. Sometimes, I'll even add a few props to the shot, like a sprig of herbs or a small vase of flowers, to add a bit of interest and depth.

At the end of the day, it's all about capturing the mood of the subject. Whether I'm photographing a delicious meal or a beautiful product, I want the viewer to feel like they're right there with me, experiencing the beauty and magic of the moment. And with the right lighting, composition, and technique, I know I can create a photo that truly captures that feeling.

Let’s connect to discuss your photography requirements for a no fee chat and personalised quotation. Call 078377 888 74 or email me ray@raymondjonesimages.com or click here

#pride2023 #food #photography #commercial

Putting Other Businesses First

Running a business is not easy. It requires constant effort, dedication, and persistence in the ever-changing market. As a business owner, you need to stay on top of the game, constantly pushing your business forward with advertisements, networking, and other marketing strategies. However, one of the most significant yet overlooked aspects of running a successful business is putting others first.

The traditional mindset of most business owners is centered around getting work for their own business. While this is important, it is equally important to think about other businesses and try to find them work. This shift in mindset is vital for any business owner, as it can help build strong relationships with other businesses, generate goodwill, and ultimately lead to more success.

Putting others first is not just about being kind or charitable. It is a strategic move that can help you build a strong network of contacts and referrals. When you help other businesses succeed, they are more likely to return the favour, either by recommending your services to their clients or by collaborating with you on future projects. This can lead to a steady stream of business opportunities, which can be a game-changer for any business.

Moreover, putting others first can help you build a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy business owner. When you prioritize the needs of others, you demonstrate that you are not just in it for yourself, but that you genuinely care about the success of others. This can help you build a loyal customer base, as people are more likely to do business with someone they trust and respect.

In conclusion, putting others first is a crucial aspect of running a successful business. It is a strategic move that can help you build a strong network of contacts, generate goodwill, and build a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy business owner. So, the next time you are thinking about your marketing strategy, consider how you can help other businesses succeed, and watch your own business thrive as a result.

It Is All In The Condiments

As a food photographer, I take pride in my ability to capture the essence of a catering business and convey their desired image to their existing and potential clients through my photographs. One aspect that I always pay close attention to is the use of condiments such as salt, pepper, sauces, and the containers they are served in. These seemingly small details can have a significant impact on the overall aesthetic and image that a catering business wants to convey.

I've noticed that lower-end gastro pubs and restaurants often prefer to use sachets for their condiments. While they may be more cost-effective and efficient, sachets can give off a less professional and refined appearance. On the other hand, higher-end gastro pubs and restaurants tend to use higher quality salt and pepper grinders, and for sauces, they use ramekins. These options are more upscale and create a more sophisticated image for the business.

When working with a catering business, I always make it a point to investigate and understand their desired image and branding. This includes their choice of condiments and containers. By understanding their preferences, I can make recommendations based on industry standards and best practices that will help them achieve the desired image.

Ultimately, the choice of condiments and containers will depend on the specific image and branding that a catering business wants to convey, as well as their target audience and budget. As a food photographer, my job is to work closely with the business to understand their vision and preferences, and to help them achieve their desired image through my photographs.

In conclusion, paying attention to even the smallest details such as condiments and containers can go a long way in creating a cohesive and visually appealing image for a catering business. As a food photographer, it is my duty to understand the desired image and convey it through my photographs.

For Quality Purposes, What You Should Look for in Property Photographs

It can be quite daunting looking at photographs of your property and thinking that you’re not sure if the photographs are of a good professional quality or not. Once you know the questions to ask yourself when viewing them, can make all the difference.

1. Determine the Purpose of the Photographs: The first question to ask is what the purpose of the photographs is. Are they intended for marketing purposes, such as for use in a property listing or brochure, or are they for personal use, such as to document the condition of a property before or after a renovation?

2. Ask About the Equipment Used: It's important to ask about the equipment the photographer used to take the photographs. This can include the camera, lenses, and lighting equipment. A professional photographer should be using high-quality equipment to ensure the best possible results.

3. Check for Image Quality: When viewing the photographs, pay close attention to the image quality. Are the images sharp and clear, or are they blurry or poorly lit? Make sure the images accurately represent the property and its features.

4. Look for Proper Composition: Composition refers to the arrangement of elements in an image, such as the placement of furniture and the use of space. Proper composition is essential for creating visually appealing and effective photographs.

5. Check for Colour Accuracy: The colours in the photographs should accurately reflect the colours of the property. Make sure the colours are not oversaturated or too bright, as this can make the property look unnatural. If colour accuracy is important, your photographer should be using flash. If flash isn’t being used the images will appear washed out and polluted with colours from furnishings, outside sunlight. Using flash corrects colours.

6. Ask About Post-Processing: Many photographers will perform post-processing on the images to enhance their quality. Ask the photographer what post-processing techniques were used and how they were applied.

7. Are vertical lines vertical? Unless they are purposely not vertical. All verticals should straight.

8. Are there window view details? Some properties have beautiful garden spaces so it’s essential to have a nicely exposed window. However, if the garden space is unattractive it may be desirable to leave the window blown out.

9. Consider the Overall Impression: Finally, consider the overall impression the photographs give. Do they make the property look appealing and inviting? Do they accurately represent the property and its features? If the photographs don't meet your expectations, discuss your concerns with the photographer and work together to come up with a solution.

By asking these questions when viewing property photographs, you can ensure that you are investing in high-quality images that accurately represent the property and its features and you’ve made a wise investment

I often work with interior designers and home stage specialists. If a property looks good it will photograph great.

I’ve worked with Judith Todd, homestager based on the Wirral. Judith’s website is https://homestyle4u.com

#proprtyphotography