Props for Food Photography

Today's post is about food photo props. If you are a food blogger or following a food blog, by now you would have known the importance of props and how essential they are for food photography. Of course, you need a decent camera to capture a great photo of the dish or food, and know basic camera techniques but props have their own significance. They add life and color to form a great photograph.

Most food photographers usually have a basic collection of props handy. There are some who make use of what best they find around them. Some others are minimalists when it comes to food photography. Even then, some basic essentials help in bringing out the best. To be honest, being a busy mom I use props only when I have enough time to photograph, else I just go with whatever I have on hand. However, there are times when I make the effort to follow some of the tips learned online from various sites.

Food Photo Props - what is a prop in food photography?

A prop in food photography in simple words is any item that you place along with your food on your table or photography set to enhance the look of your food and improve the presentation so it looks very appealing.

It could be a nice foam board easily available in many patterns and colors on which you place your dish, cutting boards, ceramic bowls, white plates, clear bowls or jars, antique or wooden spoons, plates and flatware, serving bowls, utensils, ingredients used in the dish like vegetables, fruits, spices, linens, fresh flowers, vases or simply any household item that would help enhance the look of the dish.

Some things to bear in mind when using props

• Remember that the dish is the main subject of the photo and it should be the main focus. The props should not steal attention away from the food. In fact, the props should help draw attention to the food and make it look appealing and better.
• Any glare from utensils and flatware should be minimized as it can distract attention.
• Using miniature plates, smaller bowls, mini pans, and utensils not only helps in making the serving dish look full but also helps to fit in the camera frame as well.
• Too many props can distract the viewer and spoil the whole appeal of the food.
• Play around with the composition and you can be the best judge of what looks good ultimately. Here are some props that food photographers find useful.

Foam Board

Various types and colors of wooden foam boards and marble sheets are available. They are also lightweight and can be easily carried around. They can be interchanged and used as a backdrop and not just a surface where you place the food. The backdrop need not always be tiles or craft papers. You can use your imagination and play around with it.

photo credits: pexels.com

White Plates

White plates are neutral and bring out the color in the food .

photo credits: pexels.com

Chopping board

Chopping board adds a great texture and enhancement to food pictures. It also brings in the visual interest. Collect a variety of chopping boards in unique shapes and colors for variety.

photo credits: pexels.com

Flatware

Flatware of various types can be used as props. You can look for discounts in the stores for fancy ones and add them to your collection. There are many varieties available like the silver, gold, bronze ones these days.

photo credits: pexels.com

Clear bowls & glasses

The clear bowls, jars, and glasses as props are a photographers delight in photographing food.

photo credits: pexels.com

Art & Craft paper

Different colors of art and craft papers can be used as a surface or backdrop to make the food stand out. The contrasting colors give the food an interesting look.

photo credits: pexels.com

Linens, Parchment paper, kitchen towels

Linens, parchment paper, and kitchen towels give a wonderful texture and are interesting food props. Linens and towels also help bring light to the food and reflect it at times. Parchment paper looks great with baked goods.

photo credits: pexels.com

Ingredients ,Tools & Condiments

Ingredients used in making the dish for example spices, ketchup, vegetables, or fruits can also be used. Mortar & pestle, spice grinders are great food props. A dash of pepper sprinkled around a dish gives the food an appealing look.

photo credits: pexels.com

Variety of Bowls & Plates

Collect various types of ceramic bowls and plates to be used as props. Some of the stores like Target, home goods, Ross, T.J.Max carry them at discounted prices. They help to bring out versatility when you have to photograph food often.

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photo credits: pexels.com

Miniature bowls and Plates

Small, miniature bowls or plates have the advantage of helping fit in the frame, gives a look of plenty, and also looks amazing. Below are some of the bowls and plates that I used for food photography on my site.

photo credits: inspiresn.com

Antique spoons and rusted utensils

photo credits: pexels.com

Antique spoons, rusted utensils like an old baking tray will give a vintage and compelling look to the photographs.

Just Food or Dish

There are times when just the food is enough to be the main subject using no props at all. A nice sharp, close-up shot with a good camera and right light will do a great job!

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photo credits: pexels.com

As we see, there are many things around that can be used in many different ways as props for food photography. There is no limit to one's imagination. Everyone has their unique style, signature, creativity, and skill that they can use to brings out the best. If you have any interesting props that you like to use in food photography, do share in the comments below.

Until next time, happy clicking!