How to photograph food like a pro

As one of the UK’s leading food photographers, James Thompson is an expert at capturing the atmosphere and artistry of dining around the world. Through his Instagram @food_feels he brings together his passions for travel, food and photography in one beautifully curated space.

I’ve been taking photos for almost 10 years – it was a hobby to begin with. I’m obsessed with travel and dining out, so naturally I started shooting my experiences, especially around food and restaurants. My dad was a photographer, so with some guidance from him in the early stages, and with the rise of social media, I was picking up the camera more and more.

Fast forward to now and my work is mostly within hospitality – hotels and restaurants. When I work with a client, I usually discuss upfront that although I do have all the lighting gear, I prefer to shoot much more naturally. What I mean by that is using natural light, capturing “moments” and stepping away from the clinical stock images we are used to seeing on a brand’s social media. I try to be a fly on the wall and capture the moments that guests would actually when they arrive at a property. My style has certainly changed over the years, however the fundamentals remain the same.

Food looks best in natural light

The main goal is to make the food look good. Artificial lighting does work well, but whenever possible I shoot near a window with soft daylight. This is usually in the morning or late afternoon light. If the light’s too strong, use a diffuser or even a thin curtain. Move the plate around to see how light adds texture. Don’t be afraid of direct light too, sometimes harsh shadows can add a bold effect to a dish.

Use pops of colour and texture 

There are plenty of beige dishes out there, including stews, curries, porridge and much more. Balance those tones with colourful garnishes – think herbs, chili, citrus zest, a contrasting napkin or other tools on the table. Use side lighting to enhance texture and shadows, adding visual interest. A pop of green herbs or a drizzle of cream or olive oil can transform dull tones instantly.

The scene doesn’t have to be perfect

If you’re struggling to shoot certain dishes, perhaps it looks a little too perfect. If it’s a pizza, try removing a slice; if it’s a slice of cake, take a chunk of it with a spoon and leave the spoon sitting next to it. Make viewers feel closer to the food, like they could reach in and eat it themselves. Embrace the imperfection.

How to photograph in low light

Restaurant lighting can be a tricky one, but work with what you have to create ambience. Using a camera? Raise your ISO slightly. Or if using your phone, adjust the exposure slider. Lean into the mood by highlighting a single light source such as a candle or table lamp. There will always be just enough light in a restaurant so diners can see themselves – so you can make it work. Just be mindful to shoot in RAW for more control of editing.

Choose props that complement the subject

Before a shoot I always discuss the potential props we’ll be using on the day. I stay away from black plates, black slate boards and certain (very loud) chopping boards. Use neutral plates – white alba wins – rustic textures and simple cutlery to set the mood. Limit your colour palette to two or three tones so the food remains the hero.

Know which angles work best for certain dishes

Flat lays and overhead shots work perfectly for pizzas, bowls and spreads with lots of detail. Burgers, cakes and drinks look better from the side, highlighting height, structure and the detail within. Move around the food to see what angle shows off its best features.

Keep it simple for Instagram

The way I shoot content for Instagram is different from how I would do it for a client’s website. It’s easy to scroll past something on social media that looks a little too polished and feels like an ad. Don’t over edit the shot, make it look natural and even add a human element to it such as a hand or body to bring some life to it.

When something is missing, it’s usually a person

Next time you’re shooting a bowl of pasta, rather than shooting it on the table, ask the chef to hold it with both hands and take a shot of the hands, bowl and the chef’s apron in the background. This adds so much context to the image. If you’re shooting cocktails, try shooting a martini on a tray held by the waiter. My favourite shots usually have a human element.

Don’t be afraid to use the flash 

If the scene is right, flash lighting can definitely add to the story. I recently shot a new Italian cocktail bar and using the flash added more of a late-night spontaneous fun feel. I was shooting two negronis on a tray held by a moving waiter. Capturing that with flash completely changed the look and style.

Keep editing to a minimum

Set up your photos as much as you can beforehand. You might not always be able to do this, but as long as you have close to the right exposure, then additional adjustments should be minimal. Resist the urge to over-saturate, your viewer should feel like they could eat what they see. Subtle edits make food feel real and relatable.

Quick tips

• The best light for food photography at home is the window. Work with natural light, especially in the mornings where it’s not as harsh. It is worth purchasing a diffuser and reflector to have more control of the natural light.

• Make beige or brown food look more appetising using a splash of colour. Add a garnish to the food or use contrasting plating and napkins. White plates never fail.

• The easiest way to take great food photos with a phone is by walking around until the lighting and angle looks and feels right. Don’t use the phone flash and don’t over- or under-expose.

• To photograph food in low light – at a restaurant or Christmas dinner, for example – work with the lighting. Find a corner that doesn’t have harsh downlight and look for even lighting (a lamp or candle on the table). It’s usually enough to create the right scene.

• The best angles for food photography depends on the subject. If it’s pizza, you should shoot from above. If it’s a sandwich or burger, shoot from the side.

• Don’t try to perfect the photo. Create a scene, add a human hand, cut into the cake, crack open the egg – bring the image to life.