Savory Reviews Behind the Scenes

I get a lot of emails asking how I take photos and where I find my dishes. Readers constantly ask what camera I use, what lenses, and how I get perfect photos. The truth is, not all of my photos are perfect, but there’s a method to the madness. I spend time setting up shots, adjusting lighting, and finding the perfect dish for the food. Here’s a peek inside SavoryReviews.

The Camera

I don’t use a crazy expensive camera, but I did invest in a Digital SLR. I use a Nikon D60—a great beginner camera with solid features. I also use a standard 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens and a 35mm f/1.8 lens.

The 18-55mm lens works great for action shots while cooking. It has zoom and lets you capture the perfect moment while making the food. The 35mm is a prime lens with a low aperture for those hero shots. The low aperture lets you focus on food and blur everything behind it, giving you those amazing shots you’ve always wanted.

Lighting

Nothing beats natural lighting. Turn off your flash and use as much natural light as possible. Take photos near a window during the day. If you’re stuck shooting at night, use natural light bulbs—they’re more expensive but won’t throw off the yellowish hue.

Most DSLRs let you adjust for lighting conditions. In an area with fluorescent lights? Switch to fluorescent mode. This compensates for the yellowish tinge. This is the biggest step to getting great food pictures.

Light Box Setup

For those finished product shots, I use a light tent—a small 18″ cube with backdrops and built-in lighting. It’s perfect for getting clean photos of food with nothing around it. The light box provides the perfect clean backdrop, includes four color background options, lights, and a tripod. Everything you need to get started.

Dishes & Styling

Food does a great job on its own, but the perfect dish makes your food shine. I hate paying a lot for plates, so I shop at Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, and HomeGoods. They have a fabulous selection of random plates, bowls, and trays. You can purchase single dishes super cheap—the most I’ve ever paid for one dish was $4. Build up a nice collection of varied dishes. Nothing says dinner party like a collection of random dishes.

For glasses, I pick them up at the dollar store. TJ Maxx usually makes you buy whole sets. I need the perfect photo, not the perfect set of glasses for a party. Dollar stores have every type of glass you need—martini glasses, margarita glasses, rocks glasses, collins glasses, everything. And yes, they’re only a dollar each.

Final Thoughts

Have fun. The more fun you have, the better your food will turn out. And in turn, the better your photos will be.

— Rex

As always, if you have any questions, drop me a line at rex [at] savoryreviews (dot) com.