When looking to hire a photographer for your restaurant, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you get the best possible photos. Many of our clients often ask about the preparations needed before a photoshoot. Here are some key points to keep in mind.
Key Points for Restaurant Photoshoots:
- Reserve a Space for the Photoshoot
- Typically, food photography focuses on individual dishes. Unless you need to capture set meals or group photos, a four-person table and some surrounding space should be enough. It’s essential to have space around the table for lighting equipment, as the photographer will need to set up light stands and flashes based on the specific situation.
- Avoid too dark areas as it can make it difficult for the photographer to focus, slow down the shoot, and potentially cause issues that might not be noticeable on the spot but could affect post-production. Also, avoid places with too much natural light, such as near windows, as sunlight can change and affect the lighting consistency in your photos.
- Prepare Suitable Tableware
- Having the right tableware is crucial. Even the best photographer can’t create stunning photos without appropriate tableware. Your dishes should match the style of your restaurant and the food being served. Discuss with your photographer and menu designer beforehand to decide on the direction and then purchase tableware suitable for the shoot.
- Provide Small Decorations and Props
- While photographers typically bring their essential equipment, such as cameras and lighting gear, they may not be able to bring a lot of decorative items. If the restaurant can provide additional decor or props that match the restaurant’s style, it can give the photographer more flexibility and enhance the photo’s overall appearance.
- Coordinate with the Chef
- The heart and soul of food photography is the chef’s skill. Even with the best photographer, the quality of the photo depends heavily on the chef’s presentation of the food. Before the shoot, ensure to discuss the details, quantity, and timing with the chef to align expectations.
- The dishes used for photography might differ slightly from those served to customers, mainly in terms of presentation and appearance. It’s not about the taste but how it looks for the camera. Therefore, the chef should be prepared to focus on the visual aspects of the photoshoot.
By taking these steps, you can ensure a smooth photoshoot day and beautiful results. Work closely with your professional photographer to create stunning photos that showcase your restaurant in the best light!