How to Hire a Food Photographer

Hiring a food photographer is about more than just finding an eager person with a camera—it’s about choosing someone who understands your brand, knows how to make food look irresistible, and can deliver high-quality visuals that attract customers.

Making the right choice helps you avoid common problems like poorly lit or unappetizing photos, missed deadlines, or images that don’t align with your branding.

It is sometimes hard for the bystander to understand the skill-level of a person with the camera, especially if they are really motivated to get the gig, therefore watch out for the common red flags.

Here are some key clues:

Portfolio Issues

• Lack of food-specific work – Their portfolio is filled with other types of photography (portraits, weddings, landscapes) but little to no food images.

• Inconsistent quality – Some images look great, while others appear amateurish or poorly edited.

• No variety – All photos have the same angle, lighting, or composition, showing a lack of adaptability.

• Unappetizing food photos – Dull colors, bad composition, or food that looks dry, greasy, or unappealing.

• Poor skill – Harsh shadows, overexposed highlights, or dark, muddy images. Photos appear blurry or lack crisp detail. Awkward cropping, or no clear focus on the dish.

Lack of Industry Knowledge

• Doesn’t ask about your brand or goals – A professional will want to understand your restaurant’s style and marketing needs.

• No understanding of food styling – Doesn’t know how to make food look its best or relies too much on editing.

• No clear process – Can’t explain how they work, what’s included, or how long it takes.

• Slow response time – Unreliable communication or delays in replying to inquiries.

• No client testimonials or references – Established photographers should have past clients who can vouch for their work.

• Unclear pricing & licensing – Avoids discussing licensing, image rights, or extra costs.

Having read this, you have a better understanding what to avoid and you’re half-way there. Here’s a step-by-step guide to hiring the right food photographer:

1. Define Your Needs

Before you start searching, clarify:

• Purpose – Are the photos for your menu, website, social media, or an ad campaign?

• Style – Do you want bright and airy shots, moody and dramatic, or something else?

• Types of Shots – Do you need individual dish photos, ambiance shots, chefs in action, or styled food spreads?

• Budget – Decide on a budget range for the project.

2. Look for Experience & Portfolio

• Search for photographers who specialize in food photography.

• Check their portfolio to see if their style aligns with your brand.

• Look for variety—can they shoot plated dishes, drinks, and lifestyle shots?

3. Check Their Process

A great food photographer should:

• Guide you on preparation (e.g., best plating, styling, lighting).

• Work with a food stylist (if needed) for a more polished look.

• Have experience with lighting (especially for indoor restaurant shoots).

• Understand branding to ensure the photos match your restaurant’s vibe.

4. Ask About Deliverables & Timeline

• How many images will you receive?

• In what format (JPEG, PNG, RAW)?

• What’s the turnaround time?

• Are editing and retouching included?

5. Discuss Pricing & Usage Rights

• Does the price include editing?

• Are there extra fees for extended usage or exclusivity?

• Are travel costs included (if applicable)?

6. Book a Test Shoot (Optional)

If unsure, hire them for a small shoot first to see how they work and whether you like the results.

7. Finalize the Agreement

• Sign a contract outlining services, pricing, and image usage rights.

• Ensure there are no hidden fees.
  

Working with the right food photographer feels effortless and rewarding. A great photographer understands your vision, communicates clearly, and brings creative ideas that enhance your brand.

The process is smooth, from planning the shoot to delivering high-quality images that perfectly capture your food’s appeal. Instead of feeling like a stressful task, it becomes an enjoyable collaboration that elevates your restaurant’s presence.

An experienced food photographer who works with many different companies often has valuable insights about your competition or the food market in general, which can help refine your visual strategy.

Want to know more about how to prepare for your photoshoot? Read this

Interested in working with me? Get in touch!