Use natural light whenever possible. Avoid harsh overhead lighting or direct sunlight, as it can create shadows and wash out colors. Position your food near a window for soft, diffused light.
Pay attention to composition. Use the rule of thirds to create balanced and visually appealing shots.
Choose a clean and uncluttered background that complements your dish. Plain white plates or wooden surfaces often work well.
Experiment with different angles. The most common angles for food photography are overhead (flat lay), 45-degree angle, and straight-on.
Use your smartphone's aperture settings to control the depth of field. A shallow depth of field (achieved by focusing on the subject and blurring the background) can create a pleasing bokeh effect.
Tap on the main subject (the food) to focus and adjust exposure. This ensures that the most critical part of the image is sharp and well-exposed.
Enhance the appearance of your food with styling tricks. Brushing oil or water on the surface can add shine, and garnishes like fresh herbs or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can make a dish more visually appealing.