Food Photography 101: Build the Set (Step by Step, Bite by Bite)

Reims

Ever wondered how food photographers create those mouth-watering images that look good enough to eat? In this presentation, Emma Dunham takes you behind the scenes of a professional food shoot, showing you how to build the shot from scratch—one step at a time.

You’ll learn how to turn an ordinary dish into a scroll-stopping image using simple, repeatable techniques that work whether you’re photographing a homemade cake or working on a client brief. No technical jargon. No intimidating setups. Just a clear, creative walk-through of how a great food photo comes together.

You’ll learn how to:

  • Use natural or artificial light to bring food to life

  • Choose the best angle for different types of dishes

  • Select simple backdrops and surfaces to elevate your shot

  • Build your composition with props, plates, and styling tricks

  • Add finishing touches that tell a story and create mood

  • Spot and fix the most common beginner mistakes

Whether you’re new to food photography or looking to sharpen your basics, this session gives you a fresh, confidence-boosting approach to creating strong, professional images—even from your kitchen table.

Masterclass

MPB - Buy, sell or trade used photo and video kit

The Societies of Photographers Excellent TrustPilot

Corporate Partners

Aaduki Photographic Insurance PermaJet - The Inkjet Paper and Canvas Specialists The London Photography & Video Show Elinchrom Studio & Portable Lighting MPB

Update cookies preferences