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Writer's pictureEmily Fay

Essential Food Photography Equipment


Capturing the perfect shot of a delicious dish isn't just about having an eye for detail; it also requires the right equipment. Whether you're a food blogger, a professional photographer, or a culinary enthusiast, having the right gear is essential for creating mouth-watering images. Here's a rundown of the must-have food photography equipment that will elevate your shots and some tips on where to find the best options.



hands putting a memory card into a camera


Essential Food Photography Equipment


1. Camera Body

Your camera is the backbone of your photography setup. While there are countless options out there, a DSLR or mirrorless camera is generally preferred for food photography due to their versatility and superior image quality. Popular choices include the Canon EOS R series and the Nikon Z series. These cameras offer excellent low-light performance and high-resolution sensors, crucial for capturing fine details.


Where to Find: Check out my Free Camera Guide, my Amazon list, and B&H Photo for all my recommendations!


2. Lenses

A good lens can make a significant difference in your photos. For food photography, a macro lens like the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM or the Nikon AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED is highly recommended. These lenses allow you to capture intricate details and textures that make food look irresistible. Additionally, a nifty fifty (50mm prime lens) is great for versatile shots with a natural perspective.


Where to Find: Check out my Free Camera Guide, my Amazon list, and B&H Photo for all my recommendations!


3. Tripod

Stability is key in food photography, especially when working with low light or slow shutter speeds. A sturdy tripod like the Manfrotto MT055XPRO3 or the Gitzo GT1545T Series 1 Traveler will keep your camera steady and help you achieve sharp images.


Where to Find:Check out my Free Camera Guide, my Amazon list, and B&H Photo for all my recommendations!


4. Lighting

Natural light is wonderful, but it's not always available or reliable. Investing in artificial lighting like LED panels or softboxes can make a huge difference. The Godox SL-60W LED Video Light and Neewer Softbox Lighting Kit are excellent choices for controlled, soft lighting.


Where to Find: My Amazon list, and B&H Photo for all my recommendations!


5. Reflectors and Diffusers

Manipulating light to eliminate harsh shadows and create even, soft illumination is crucial. Reflectors and diffusers are inexpensive tools that can achieve this. The Neewer 5-in-1 Reflector and the Lastolite Diffuser are popular options.


Where to Find: My Amazon list, and B&H Photo for all my recommendations!


6. Backgrounds and Surfaces

The backdrop of your photo plays a significant role in the overall aesthetic. Wooden boards, marble slabs, and textured fabrics can add depth and interest to your shots. Replica Surfaces and Erickson Surfaces offer a variety of high-quality backgrounds specifically designed for food photography.


Where to Find: 


7. Editing Software

Post-processing is the final step in creating stunning food photographs. Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop are industry standards for photo editing, offering robust tools to enhance colors, adjust lighting, and remove imperfections.


Where to Find: Adobe's website offers subscription plans for individual apps or the entire Creative Cloud suite.



With these essential food photography equipment recommendations you're taking the first step towards mastering food photography. From high-quality cameras and lenses to essential lighting and editing tools, each piece of equipment plays a crucial role in capturing the perfect shot.


Ready to take your food photography to the next level? Explore the recommended gear and start experimenting with your setups today. Visit my gear list HERE



Remember, the best equipment doesn't guarantee great photos; it's how you use it that makes the difference. Keep practicing, experimenting, and refining your skills to create truly mouth-watering images.

Feel free to share your equipment recommendations or ask questions in the comments below!

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