10 Things to Know Before Hiring a Food Photographer
If you’re checking out this article, you’re either ready to hire a food photographer and looking for tips OR you’re debating hiring one and just doing some general research.
If you’re still in the “just thinking about it” phase, let me remind you of some reasons hiring a food photographer is a good idea for your business.
A skilled food photographer can:
Save you a lot of time trying to figure out lighting, angles, and camera settings.
Showcase your delicious food in the best way possible.
Get your ideal customer’s attention (and their mouths watering).
Show people you’re serious about what you do.
Help make sure your visuals are aligned with your overall branding.
The right food photographer can help you get more customers (and grow your income). But how do you know who is the best fit?
Here are 10 things you should know before hiring a food photographer.
Do they specialize in food photography?
While there are definitely photographers out there who are great at shooting a variety of subjects, your best bet is to go with someone who specializes in food photography. Or at least someone who has a portfolio showcasing several food shoots they have completed.
It’s not enough to have a great camera and experience with taking good pictures.
You want someone who knows FOOD and how to capture it in all its glory. Because, let's face it — some foods are not easy to make look as good as they taste.
Do they have a portfolio?
One way to tell if someone is skilled at food photography is to check out their portfolio. This will give you a great idea of their skills and their style.
Can they match your branding?
Speaking of photography styles, you need to find out if the food photographer is willing and able to take photos that align with your branding. If they aren’t able to, then your photos will come out looking just like everyone else that they’ve worked for — and that won’t really help you with your overall goals (even if the pics themselves look fantastic). It’s worth it to hold out for someone who takes great pics AND direction.
Are they skilled at styling food?
No, I’m not mistaking food for models. Food has to be staged and styled as well! And anyone who has worked in the culinary industry for any length of time knows that sometimes food tastes way better than it looks. That’s why having a food photographer who knows how to style and stage food so that it looks as appealing as possible is critical. If the photographer doesn’t know how to do styling themselves, do they work with a food stylist who can? Sometimes food photographers collaborate with food stylists to get the job done — and there’s nothing wrong with that! The important thing to know in those situations, though, is whether you will have to pay any additional fees for the food stylist to jump in.
Do they have their own lighting setup?
A professional food photographer will come prepared to create the ideal conditions to take great photos instead of relying on there being the perfect lighting available. This is especially important if they are coming to you and your location doesn’t have great natural lighting.
Who will provide the props?
Again, you want to know upfront about all possible fees. Although some food photographers already have a lot of props to use during shoots, others may require that you provide the props or be willing to come out of pocket to rent some. It may very well be worth it to hire a prop stylist who knows your branding and can find props that align with that.
Who is responsible for cooking?
Unless the food photographer is also a chef, chances are it’s up to you to make sure the food that’s being photographed is prepared well. The photographer may be able to help with styling the food by adding certain garnishes and finishing touches, but I wouldn’t go into it expecting them to cook the food. If they do happen to be able to do that, though, be prepared to pay extra for this added service.
What are their terms as far as using the images?
It’s important to get clear on who will own the rights to the images, where and how you can use them, as well as how long you can use them. Be sure to get all of this information in writing — preferably in a contract! The last thing you want to do is pay good money for beautiful pictures, only to find out you can’t even use them the way you intended. Don’t be afraid to negotiate on terms (though you’ll likely have to pay extra if your terms are very different from what they would normally do).
Will they resell the images?
Some photographers will resell the images they take for clients by listing them on stock photography sites. Ask about whether this is a possibility and if there’s an option available that will restrict them from doing so. This is especially important if you want to use the images in something like a cookbook.
Are there any other fees you should know about?
If you can’t tell, I’m big on knowing costs upfront. Don’t be afraid to ask outright if there are any other fees (or potential fees) that you should know about. It helps you to make a truly informed decision (and is just a good business practice).
I hope this helps you as you continue (or begin) your journey toward finding a great food photographer. Happy hunting!
