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Food Photo Lighting Fundamentals: The 3 Things to Control
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Food Photo Lighting Fundamentals: The 3 Things to Control

3 min read
FoodPhoto Team• Lighting fundamentals

Lighting doesn’t need to be complicated. Control direction, softness, and color—then everything else becomes easier.

TL;DR

Direction: where the light comes from. Softness: how harsh or gentle the shadows are. Color: avoid mixed lighting that turns food yellow/green.

1) Direction

Side light gives depth. Back light can be dramatic. Overhead kitchen light is usually the worst.

2) Softness

Window light is soft. Direct sun is harsh. Diffuse harsh light with a curtain or diffuser.

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3) Color

Turn off mixed lights. Use one source so the food color stays accurate.

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Food Photo Lighting Fundamentals: The 3 Things to Control - FoodPhoto.ai Blog