Food Photography Backdrops and Things in Between

There is more than one variable to consider in terms of image assessment. All these variables come together to either make or break the photoshoot. This is why aside from food photography backdrops, there are still other variables to consider if your team wants to achieve a good photo shoot activity. The things in between can be divided into two, the popular and the most considered one, and those usually overlooked. While these things can be grouped and plotted on a spectrum, they are all worth exploring and studying.

Food Photography Backdrops and Lighting

Lighting is one of the crucial things that make or break a photo. This is also one of the essential things to consider and study in photoshoots. With the proper lighting, a photoshoot can bloom the way the team envisioned it to be. However, poor choice of lighting technique can give subpar result images.

Soft Light and Soft Light Effects

In achieving this type of light, it has to be closer to the subject. The light source should also be huge to give a maximum amount of light. This can also be paired with things that can reflect light like glasses, cans, plates, etc.

On the other hand, using soft light effects helps create a smoother, milder vibe to the photo. These types of pictures are supposed to look delicate and soft. Most of the time, this lighting accompanies pastel-colored food photography backdrops. This style and combination are correct, especially if the team is going for lighter shadows in their images.

Hard Light and Hard Light Effects

These are the types to be put far from the subject using small light sources. This type of lighting is excellent for creating more apparent shadows and enhance the images’ three-dimensionality. When shooting from an elevated angle or above, this lighting helps emphasize the difference and creates a clear differentiation between the subject and its background. This lighting is friendly to any backdrops but, of course, with suitable adjustments and use.

Food Photography Backdrops and Their Materials and Textures

Aside from lighting, the type of material is also relevant in bringing out the best of your photos. The texture and how the material reflects light are also some things to consider. There are various textures and materials to choose from in the talks of food photography backdrops. Choosing the right one for your shoot may be challenging as the choices seem endless. However, once you get a clear picture of what you want to achieve and study it closely, it will be easier, and you will be able to decide in no time. This being said, a reminder that different materials also come in with different prices. Thus, another thing to consider is the budget for the shoot. The following are the common materials and textures available out in the market.

Matte Backdrops

These types of backgrounds are one of the most popular and functional ones out there. Matte food photography backdrops allow for uniformity of shadows as well as non-reflective of unnecessary lights. Shiny textured backdrops can be challenging. It may be harder to control lights with the shiny ones. These types of backdrops also work with almost any food subject and any color scheme or concept.

Structured Surfaces

These types of backdrops are trendy in portraying the country vibe and look. Its rusty vibe gives off classy traditional energy to the images. This type of backdrop brings out the raw soul of food that translates to fullness in the viewers’ eyes. If the team is about to go for the homemade food vibe or when it is literally homemade food they are trying to advertise, these backdrops are very much suitable for achieving these types of goals. It exudes the feeling of being at a family’s table with dishes and recipes from your ancestors. 

Woods can be the main character when it comes to structured surfaces. It is very convenient, including the fact that it can be painted with any color you want and envision. Woods also have naturally pretty veins that add up to the spice of the photos. This material is also easy to handle. Other examples are rocks, rough tiles, special papers, and creases fabrics. These materials can help you elevate your photos and contribute a country and warm touch to them.

Smooth Backdrops

These types of food photography backdrops are also famous in the field. They help achieve elegant, neat, and clean shots. These are perfect in emphasizing professionalism and precision. These backdrops are suitable for gourmet cooking and are even going to stand out with solid colors. Again, wood shines even in these types of backdrops too. Wooden panels are recommendable as they can be painted over and over again to whatever color you want. Just this time, veins are subtle and calm. Ceramics are also good as smooth backdrops, but it is on the heavier side, so it might be hard to handle and not so portable-friendly. If shooting food products that include liquid, ceramics sure are the one to clap your hands to as they work well with liquid. Light flooring is also an option. This type is convenient, especially in terms of cleaning up. They are also light, so the team will be able to set up and cover a broader scope. With this, you can afford to have a large food photography backdrop.

Shiny Top Backdrops

The materials for these types of food photography backdrops are ceramic, glass, and plexiglass. These are relatively rare in the branch of food photography. They are usually used for cosmetic shoots. This type can be challenging in terms of managing lighting. However, everything is possible, and with the proper lighting and setup, this backdrop can help achieve your image goals.

Fabric Backgrounds

Fabric touches are also popular. These types of backgrounds give a unique and cool glow to the photos. They pose the risk of only being used once as they are hard to alter. Perhaps they can only accommodate 2 – 3 environments. Using them more than thrice times can appear redundant.