5 tips to take stunning food photos at home - no fancy gear needed

Want to up your food photography without expensive equipment? These 5 easy tips will help you capture mouthwatering food images right from your kitchen!

1. Use natural light

Lighting is everything in photography, especially when it comes to food. Instead of artificial kitchen lighting, try shooting near a window. Morning or late afternoon light is often soft and flattering. Pro tip: use a white curtain or baking paper to diffuse harsh sunlight.

2. Shoot from the right angle

Different dishes look better from different perspectives. Flat lay works great for salads, pastries, and table spreads. A 45-degree angle is ideal for burgers, bowls, and drinks. Test multiple angles until you find what makes the food look its best!

3. Keep your background clean, but not boring

Simple backgrounds help the food stand out. Wooden tables, marble surfaces, or white linens work well. Want to add depth? Use props like cutlery, flowers or napkins. Stick to 2–3 colors in your scene, don’t overcrowd the image.

4. Use your smartphone properly

Modern smartphones have excellent cameras. Clean the lens, use gridlines to align your shot, and tap on the subject to lock focus. Avoid using the zoom, instead, move closer. Edit afterwards with apps like Lightroom Mobile, VSCO or Photoshop.

5. Style your food thoughtfully

Good styling makes a huge difference. Wipe messy edges, garnish with fresh herbs, and make sure nothing looks dry or overcooked - food should look fresh and alive. Try layering textures, like a rustic plate with a linen napkin and some crumbs to create a natural look. It doesn’t have to be too clean or perfect, I personally love adding a bit of life and mess to make it feel real.

You don’t need a professional studio or expensive gear to take beautiful food photos. With just natural light, a few thoughtful styling tricks, a smartphone or a basic point-and-shoot camera you can create deliciously eye-catching images!