Equipment and Props

Considering equipment and props in pre-production, production, and post-production is crucial for achieving one’s photoshoot goals. It allows people to plan before photoshoots and purchase materials (if necessary) ahead of time, guaranteeing better results. With this in mind, I took note of the equipment and props needed for a successful food photoshoot, possible roadblocks, and backup plans. I also reflected on the photoshoot supplies I own and how I can purchase others, as they should be attainable within this time constraint. All of the photos in this post are from Google.

Pre-production:

Planning is crucial in pre-production photography as it ensures one fulfills their goals and has backup plans. Before the shoot, I can determine the foods I want to photograph and the shots I want to take to help me figure out what supplies I need and how to set up my props (such as positioning my tripod). I can then sketch my ideas for a tangible reference of my photoshoot goals. Planning will also help me determine if I need to prepare components of my recipes in advance.

Production:

1. Ring Light

Since I frequently struggle with lighting, a ring light would be an essential piece of equipment to make my photoshoot vision come to life. It would simulate natural light and maintain even lighting across my subjects, enhancing the quality of my photos. It is also portable, and I can easily transport it when needed. Especially when baking in-depth recipes, I am constantly in different areas in my kitchen. Instead of moving my photography subject—which may affect the presentation of the food—to optimal lighting areas, I can move the ring light, increasing convenience and photo quality.

2. Backdrops

When baking/cooking, I use multiple areas of my kitchen simultaneously. Consequently, the countertop and background vary, creating inconsistency in my photos. Backdrops would effectively address this imperfection as they will add uniformity to my images, allow me to easily customize my set with ones suitable for my photoshoot, and convey certain moods. My baking workspace has a reflective surface, creating shadows; I can, therefore, add a non-reflective backdrop on top of the existing surface. Depending on the situation, I may use a standard backdrop, a marble pastry board, or contact paper (for example); I should consider factors such as the mood I aim to evoke and the food I will photograph when choosing the best option. If I photograph the final product of my baked goods, I may want to use a marble pastry board (for small-scale subjects) or a standard backdrop. Whereas, if I document the steps in a recipe, I may use contact paper as I would be less limited in space.

3. Professional Camera

Professional cameras are necessary equipment for photoshoots. Although my iPhone 13 camera may be satisfactory, a professional camera would have superior results. I have access to a professional camera, a Canon T3i (as pictured on the left), which creates better-quality photos than my iPhone, has a variety of lenses, and has more granular control. It is worth noting that DSLR cameras are used more by professional photographers, hence the benefits of utilizing them in photoshoots.

4. Tripod

I should also consider using a tripod for my final photoshoot as it can prop up phones and cameras, allowing me to capture photos hands-free. In previous photoshoots, I had to photograph with one hand, which wasn't ideal; it was difficult to take quality photos while stabilizing my phone. It would also allow me to direct my full attention to baking. I would use this equipment by propping up my phone or camera on the tripod and using the time feature on the Camera app to customize when my device should take the shot.

5. Reflector

Another piece of equipment I should consider in the production stage of my photoshoot would be a reflector, which I would place opposite my light source to reflect light and limit shadows. I am relatively unfamiliar with this equipment, however, I am intrigued to learn more about it and the benefits it may provide for my photos.

6. Tableware

To create detailed shots, I should consider purchasing high-quality tableware—such as plates and utensils, which apply to my photoshoot the most—that complement my photographed baked goods. I can also buy various dishes, cake stands, and wooden boards to add depth to my photos. Other props that would add depth to my backgrounds would be cloth napkins, which come in various forms, are easily customizable, and create decorative table settings.

Post-production:

From adjusting a photo’s saturation to creating composite images, editing (post-production) allows photographers to perfect their photographs, show creativity, and add details. I should consider editing my photos in Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom. I’m unfamiliar with Adobe Lightroom, yet I am interested in learning how to use it. On the other hand, I am familiar with Adobe Photoshop, and it is a helpful tool for enhancing photos and adding depth to images.

What I do and don't currently own/have access to:

I own a professional camera, a tripod, cake stands, and tableware. I also have access to Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom. I don’t own equipment and props such as backdrops, a reflector, and a ring light. Nevertheless, I have easy access to purchasing these supplies physically and online.

Issues and Backup Plans:

I may initially not know how to use a professional camera. Nevertheless, I can become more familiar with it through practice and trial and error. My father can also guide me since he is proficient in this area. Marble pastry boards and ceramic dishes are often expensive. Nevertheless, I can buy contact paper and use tableware from my house, which should be equally effective.