Props every food and product photographer needs
As a food and product photographer, having the right tools and props can make a huge difference in the quality of your photos. Not only do they add visual interest and texture to your shots, but they can also help to bring your vision to life and elevate the overall aesthetic of your work. So, in this blog post, I’ll be sharing with you the baseline of props that every food and product photographer should have in their kit.
Vinyl backdrops
Let’s start with backdrops. A good vinyl backdrop can be a lifesaver when it comes to food and product photography. Not only are they easy to clean and store, but they also come in a variety of colours and patterns that can add depth and dimension to your shots. Whether you’re looking for a solid-coloured backdrop to create a simple, minimalist look or a patterned one to add a bit of fun and interest, there are plenty of options to choose from. And the best part is, you don’t have to worry about the background being too distracting or competing with the main subject in your shot.
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Linen
Another must-have prop for food and product photographers is linen. Whether you’re using it as a tablecloth or a backdrop, linen adds a touch of warmth and texture that’s difficult to achieve with other materials. Plus, it’s versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the look you’re going for. For example, you can use crisp white linen to create a clean and modern look or more natural and rough-hewn linen for a rustic feel.
Glassware and bowls
When it comes to styling your shots, small bowls, shallow plates, and glass jars are essential props to have on hand. These items can be used to display food items or products in a way that’s visually appealing and easy to see. For example, you can use a shallow plate to showcase a beautifully arranged cheese platter or a small bowl to display a delicious dessert. And when it comes to glass jars, they’re great for storing and displaying things like spices, honey, or other condiments.
Utensils
Of course, when you’re styling food and product shots, you’ll also need a variety of utensils to help you arrange your subjects in a visually interesting way. This could include things like forks, spoons, knives, and tongs. But don’t be afraid to get creative and use other objects as well, such as chopsticks, tweezers, or even a pair of scissors. The key is to experiment and see what works best for your particular setup.
Flowers and greenery
Another important prop that should be in every food and product photographer’s toolkit is greenery and flowers. Whether real or fake, these items can add a pop of colour and texture to your shots and help to bring your subjects to life. If you’re using real greenery and flowers, be sure to choose high-quality specimens that are free from wilting or yellowing. And if you’re using fake ones, make sure they look realistic and blend in well with your other props.
And finally, when it comes to styling your shots, it’s important to consider the lighting. Whether you’re using natural light or studio lighting, it’s important to make sure that your shots are well-lit and that there are no harsh shadows or hot spots. If you’re working with natural light, be sure to take your shots in a well-lit room with plenty of windows. If you’re using studio lighting, consider investing in a set of high-quality lights and diffusers to help you get the best results.
Happy shooting x
