Hiring a food photographer is a great way to showcase your restaurant at its best, whether it’s for your website, social media, or a new menu launch. But to really get the most out of the shoot, a little preparation goes a long way. As a food photographer myself, I’ve seen how the right setup can make all the difference. Here’s how to set yourself up for a successful session.

Have a Plan for What You Want to Capture
Before I arrive, take a bit of time to decide which dishes need to be in the spotlight. Your signature plates, customer favourites, and anything that best represents your restaurant should be top of the list. If you’re launching a seasonal menu, make sure those dishes are included too. Having a clear shot list will keep things running smoothly and ensure we get the images you need.

Use the Freshest Ingredients
Good food photography captures every little detail, so there’s no hiding behind filters if something’s not quite right. Use the freshest ingredients, vibrant garnishes, and perfectly cooked elements. If your seafood chowder is one of your standout dishes, make sure it’s packed with fresh fish and the colours are popping—no dull or wilted ingredients in sight!

Make Sure the Plating is Spot-On
Presentation matters, and it’s worth spending extra time getting it right. Keep plates clean, portions consistent, and garnishes intentional. Less is often more, so avoid overcrowding the plate. If possible, have extra plates of each dish ready in case one needs a touch-up mid-shoot.

Give the Kitchen and Staff a Heads-Up
Make sure your team knows about the photoshoot in advance. If a chef will be plating for the shoot, they should have the time and space to do it properly. If you’re planning to include shots of your staff at work, ensure they’re ready to be photographed—clean uniforms, neat workstations, and a friendly, natural atmosphere all make a difference.

Pick the Best Spot for Lighting
Natural light is your best friend when it comes to food photography. If you have a bright spot near a window, that’s where we’ll want to set up. If the shoot is happening in the evening, let’s have a quick chat beforehand to figure out the best lighting options. Nobody wants a stunning dish ruined by poor lighting.

Think About Tableware and Props
The right plates, cutlery, and surfaces can make a world of difference. Simple, neutral-coloured plates let the food do the talking, while rustic wooden boards, linen napkins, and stylish cutlery can add warmth and personality. If your restaurant has a distinct style—whether it’s modern, traditional, or something in between—make sure the props match your brand.

Make Sure the Background is Clean and Tidy
A beautiful dish can lose impact if the surroundings are messy. Clear away unnecessary clutter, polish glasses and cutlery, and set the scene to reflect the vibe of your restaurant. If you have a gorgeous bar or an open kitchen, we might even use it in the background for a bit of atmosphere.

Have Extra Ingredients and Garnishes on Hand
Sometimes, the smallest details make the biggest difference. Fresh herbs, citrus zest, or a last-minute drizzle of sauce can take a dish from good to great in a photo. If we’re photographing drinks, make sure the ice is fresh, and the glasses are spotless—nobody wants condensation ruining the perfect pour.

Be Open to Suggestions
You might have a clear idea of what you want, but trust me when I say small tweaks can make a big impact. I’ll be looking for the best angles, lighting, and styling tricks to make your food look its absolute best. If I suggest a different setup or a minor adjustment, it’s usually worth trying—it could be the difference between a good photo and an incredible one.

Allow Enough Time for the Shoot
Rushing a photoshoot is a recipe for disappointment. Schedule it outside of peak hours so we’re not juggling customers at the same time. If we’re planning to shoot a lot of dishes, make sure there’s enough time to do them justice. A bit of patience will pay off when you see the final images.

With a little preparation, your food photography session will run smoothly, and you’ll end up with top-quality images that truly reflect your restaurant. If you’re not sure where to start, just give me a shout before the shoot—we’ll make a plan to bring your dishes to life in the best possible way.