When shooting this pumpkin and red lentil soup, as it was a personal food photography project, I decided to test this subject with different props and backdrops. The goal was to get three different stories out of the same recipe.
I first tested a warm and rustic setting, choosing a warm pink backdrop and terracotta bowls. Then I tested a dark and graphic look to make the orange of the soup pop, with black props and bakdrop. In the end I tested a light and airy shot, using light colored backdrop and props.
As you can see, these setups tell a completely different story.
I also tested few different garnish ideas: pumpkin seeds add crunchiness and visual interest, and suggest the viewer what’s the main ingredient of the soup. On the soup shot with light and airy mood I added a swirl of yogurt and a drizzle of spicy sauce, as well as dehidrated coconut.
As a food photographer, I always talk with my clients about the story they want to tell, so that I can choose the right props and backdrops to tell their unique message in my photos.
Props and backdrops, in addition to the lighting, are powerful narrative elements in food photography. This is why I collect a huge variety of plates, bowls, cutlery and photography backdrops that my clients can take advantage of.
What’s your favourite setup? How would you tell the story of this pumpkin soup through food photography?
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Food photography / Rome food photographer / Italian food photographer / Food stylist
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