Basic Budget Food Photography Set-up

[Anonymous Modernist 4342]

I want to try and start taking some great food photos as I document what I cook (especially out of Modernist Cuisine). I was wondering if anyone have some good advice on what to buy and how to set up and light shots against a plain black and plain white background? I think that shots that Scott takes over at Seattlefoodgeek.com are excellent. Maybe someone can speculate on his set-up?

[Scott Heimendinger]

Hi Luke, I've got a rundown of the photo gear I use on Seattle Food Geek at http://seattlefoodgeek.com/photography/.

There are also links to a two-part series I did with Ryan Matthew Smith, the MC photographer, showing the setups he uses.

Behind the Scenes with Modernist Cuisine’s Food Photographer Part 1: Getting the Shot

Behind the Scenes with Modernist Cuisine’s Food Photographer Part 2: Photoshop Magic

The most important element for this type of photography is having the right light. Any type of off-camera flash is going to help you tremendously. I've been very happy with the AlienBees flashes as a relatively affordable solution.

Best of luck, Scott

[Anonymous Modernist 4342]

Yup, that is pretty much exactly what I was looking for. I should have looked a little harder. This is an excellent resource! Thanks Scott.

[Anonymous Modernist 7287]

Hi Scott Heimendinger,

thanks for your great link.

[Anonymous Modernist 7894]

Hey everyone! I just want to chime in and say what an awesome job you guys have done with the imagery for this project. As a freelance lifestyle photographer and culinary school administrator, and the images always amaze and inspire me. Thank you!