Brittany Stager shows us some great ways to prep for fall food photography shoots. Whether it's a family gathering, or you're prepping for your next Grey Cup party recipe, fall offers a rich palette and a rustic feel that's perfect for getting a group together. Here's some fall food photoshoot inspiration...
When you think of "Fall," what comes to mind? I can't help but conjure up images of colourful leaves, rich colours, rustic metals, and pumpkins & gourds galore! Not only is Fall a time of harvest and comfort, it plays host to some exciting themes and events, making it the perfect time to get creative in front of the camera with a little fall photo shoot inspiration.
Fall is a season of rich colours with lots of reds, deep oranges, burnt browns, matte greys, and mustard yellows. Retailers like Urban Barn, Ikea, The Bay and Chapters-Indigo will have their shelves filled with on-trend pieces, and bargain-hunters are sure to find a few key food props at Value Village or a local antique shop. Using these props and colours in styled food shot can work to your advantage, and it doesn't have to be overly complicated or expensive.
Fall Comfort Food Photography
As soon as Mother Nature thrusts cold weather upon us, we are all thinking one thing: comfort food. Whether it is a turkey casserole or hearty beef stew, Fall is the time to bring warmth and satisfaction to the table.
Lucky for us, Fall is also a great time to heavily rely on props brought to us by nature. Select some of your favourite classic pieces (like casserole dishes, gold cutlery and serving trays) and style them with coloured leaves, fall flowers, pinecones, pumpkins and gourds. Incorporating some of your prop cupboard staples, like burlaps, patterned napkins, and placemats, allow you to add layers without added expense.
Fall Prop Must-Haves:
- Pumpkins
- gourds
- leaves
- pinecones
- patterned cloth napkins
- candle holders
- wine glasses
- serving trays
- cutting boards
- coloured bowls and plates
- rustic cutlery
- burlap.
Source Guide: orange plate | bowls | candle holders | serving tray | serving platter | gold flatware | pumpkins | small bowl | teak spreader | serving spoon | steel wine glass | wine glasses | flowers | printed napkin | ceramic bakeware | paper loaf pan
Game Day Celebrations Photoshoots
There's no denying it, Football parties and celebrations are all about the food. Whether it's a college game or the Grey Cup Championship, you can bet there will be food to feed that hungry, sport-ready crowd.
As football parties become mainstream, you'll find there is no lack of places to buy props. Stores like Party City, Dollarama and even Etsy cater to those who really like to "decorate." And while heavily decorated tables can be fun and kitchy, there are those who like to be more subtle. Simple, everyday items like napkins, brown paper, toothpick flags and bottle openers can really set a scene, making it applicable to any game or occasion.
Game Day Prop Must-Haves:
- Coloured napkins
- steel drink bucket
- flags
- toothpicks
- bottle openers
- drink dispensers
- chalk board signs
- condiments bottles
- brown paper
- lunch bags
Source Guide: napkins | condiments holder | paper bags | bottle opener | flags | ramekins | plates | cutting board | brown paper | beverage bucket
Prop Styling Tips:
- Multiple angles. Take multiple shots from a variety of angles so when you're editing, you have lots to choose from.
- Framing. Frame your shot so the most important element is visible; the food. You don't need to clearly see every single prop in a photo.
- Get Messy. The scene does not always have to be immaculate. Even a few crumbs can work as "props" in a shot.
More Reading
- Food Styling 101: Tips For Back To School Lunches
- Tips for Dark and Moody Winter Food Photos
- Curating Your Food Photography Props
Inspiration & Tips for Propping a Fun Fall Photoshoot was written by Brittany Stager. Brittany is the designer behind My Daily Randomness, a personal lifestyle blog. It is there where she writes about everything from home renovation and decor, to travel and food. When given the opportunity, Brittany loves to combine her two passions; styling and food.
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Beautiful styling, Brittany. Everything looks so appetizing! I’m putting the gold flatware on my Christmas wish list.
Thanks so much Julie! As you might be able to tell I am slightly obsessed with props… my prop cupboard looks like it’s going to explode!
I believe we are all food photographers with the invention of instagram! 😀
Food photos are always a big challenge and this is a good examole of that.
thanks for this useful article