Questions Every Food Photography Business Should Be Able To Answer

As a food photographer, there are many questions one must be able to answer.

And no, it is not a trick question. Hopefully, you have a good idea of what makes you stand out as a food photographer and how you want to present yourself. But if you don’t, it’s time to figure it out.

It can be difficult to explain who you are and what you do succinctly and appealingly. So I’ve put together questions that can help guide the conversation. These questions will help you hone your message so you can clearly communicate your value to the world:

1. Are there any images that are particularly representative of how you approach food photography as a food photographer?

The first step to getting a sense of a photographer’s work is through their portfolio. A quick glance at images on each photographer’s website should be enough to give you an idea of the type of work they do and the quality of their photography. But it won’t tell you much about how they approach capturing food. That’s why it’s important to ask for specific examples representing how they go about doing what they do and, most importantly, why. This will help you better understand how well your working styles align and if their skill set is a good match for your project.

2. Do you know what trends are developing in food photography?

There are many different ways to capture the beauty of food, and it’s helpful for an agency to be aware of the current trends, so they can anticipate any changes that might need to be made. This is especially true if you’re working with traditional media—a solid understanding of how things are changing (along with their own industry) will help ensure a smooth experience.

A professional food photographer will be able to give examples of current trends in food photography. They’ll know what works and what doesn’t in different platforms and channels such as social media and print advertising. Food photographers should also have a good understanding of how people view images online. After all, it’s one thing to have a beautiful photo on your computer or phone but another thing entirely on an Instagram feed!

If you are new to the food photography industry, it is a great way to practice your photography skills and learn what is currently required from food photographers. Established food photographers will gain some insight into where the industry may be heading and get a sense of what companies are looking for from their food photographers. If you’re just interested in photography, take the opportunity to see how others approach the genre or subject matter.

3. How would you describe your style?

Photography is a powerful tool for telling stories. Every photographer has a unique way of capturing and presenting images that evokes a particular feeling or mood. When you ask them how they would describe their style, you’ll see whether their approach fits what you’re looking for. Examples of the wide range of techniques include moody, editorial, contemporary, light and airy, dark and dramatic, cinematic, etc.

4. What would be your dream project?

This is a good question to ask to get a sense of the photographer’s style and interests.

This is a good question to ask to get a sense of the photographer’s style and interests. It also gives you insight into their values as an artist; for example, are they looking for more work with high-end clients or companies working on exciting projects? Would they prefer to work in food photography or something else? Do they have a particular style or aesthetic that they strive to bring out in their images?

When checking off the boxes for what they want in a food photographer, art directors will ask about your dream project. This is a great way to understand your style and interests—and whether or not they align with theirs.

For example, if your dream project is something “quirky” and “weird”, then you would probably do more crafty projects that may not be quite as commercial as their brand needs you to be.

5. What are some of your personal favorites in your portfolio?

This question is good because it will give the art director a deeper understanding of your style and point of view. Your answer may reveal what they felt was a strong subject, or perhaps they liked the attention to detail in a photo taken. Whatever the reason, asking this question will help the art director make sure the photographer is someone with whom they’ll click, personally and professionally.

If you’re looking for someone who can bring a balance of fine art and commercial photography to your project, whether it’s a branding campaign or an editorial shoot, please contact Mica McCook at mica@austinfoodguide.com.