One of my favorite parts about blogging is the photography piece! I never thought I'd be one to get into the art of photography but it's safe to say I've caught the bug. Partly thanks to Foodtography School (which I recommend to all aspiring food photographers).
A common question I get asked over on Instagram is what type of equipment I use so I've listed all of it below including cameras, lens, backdrops, and photography courses.
Camera
I am a BIG fan of mirrorless cameras. I hopped on the mirrorless train a few years ago and haven't looked back. Mirrorless cameras back a major punch and happen to have a slimmer, lighter body so they are easier to hold and maneuver.
Any of the Sony alpha cameras are fabulous. I shoot with the Sony a7iii which is one of the higher end bodies as at the time I purchased it, I didn't want to have to upgrade soon. The a7iii also has incredible video capabilities if that is something of interest!
If you want something more affordable and/or a beginner camera I recommend the Sony a6400.
Lenses
I should preface that I shot with a kit lens for about a year until I upgraded to more professional lenses. And if you're wondering what to splurge on, a camera body or lenses, hands down splurge on a better lens. Kit lenses are great but you can only get so far with them.
I only have two lenses that I work with which is pretty much all I need!
For up close shots, I use a 90mm f2.8 Macro Lens. This is what's on my camera most of the time. I LOVE a good macro shot! This is what you use if you want to capture the texture and small elements of the image.
I use a 50mm f1.8 as an "all encompassing lens". This is what I use for my flatlays and scene-type shots. It's a great lens that every photographer will tell you you should have in your bag. This is also a very affordable lens.
If you're looking to invest, I recommend researching zoom lenses. This Canon 24 - 70mm is very popular in food photography as you won't have to change your lenses often because it gives you a variety of options in one lens. I will point out that for Sony users, you will need to get an adaptor to attach this zoom lens to your camera body.
Tripod
I actually don't use a tripod very often and typically shoot "freehanded". I personally prefer to be free to move around my scene to get the best angle and then shoot. However, most food photographers only shoot with a tripod and swear by it. If you have a low light situation and need a low shutter-speed or shoot video, a tripod is definitely necessary.
I use my tripod for some flatlay shots, action shots (like a drip or drizzle shot), and, of course, when I shoot video. My Vanguard Alta Pro 263AGH was the first tripod I purchased and it's still the one I use today! It's held up like a champ.
It's compatible with Sony, Nikon, Canon DSLR Cameras and had a grip head which I like. I high recommend this tripod for all photographers.
For a more affordable option, I recommend the Amazon Basics Tripod.
Diffusers
Because I only shoot in natural light, I use a diffuser on really sunny days. I use the white and black Newer Reflectors form this bundle.
Backdrops
I have a variety of backdrops from a few different places:
- Woodville Workshop - These are my favorite backdrops as they are thin and portable and have great texture to them. Each backdrop is also double sided so you get two backdrops in one!
- Capture by Lucy - My absolute favorite vinyl backdrops. They are SO easy to set up and some double sided so you get two-in-one as well. They are made with high-quality vinyl and don't tear like some other paper backdrops.
- Erickson's Surfaces - This was my first ever photography backdrop and I still us it today. These backdrops are more expensive and are heavier than the others listed above.
Courses
For any and all aspiring food photographers, I recommend Foodtography School. I know Sarah personally and she is a phenomenal teacher and photographer. She shows you everything you need to know in her standard Foodtography School course and has an advanced course if you're craving even more. You can use code PEACH for 15% everything in their shop too!
If you're looking to start a food blog, check out these business related resources
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