Surfing the web and seeing countless flat food photos, it can be difficult for photographers to know how to stand out in their work.

Below we will introduce the behind-the-scenes preparation for food creative photography to understand how it is done and learn the preparation skills for shooting!

EOS 5D Mark III, EF50mm f/1.2L USM, f/8, ISO 100, 1/160s, 50mm Symmetrical composition: A simple yet effective technique for tiling images, which is achieved by placing the main subject (or tile)

Arrange the center of the image or frame and use other elements to create symmetrical patterns.

In the photo, the plate is surrounded by similar rice bowls and chopsticks, and the composition is simple and clear, allowing the viewer to easily identify the focal point in the image.

Contrast: There is a lot of contrast in the image.

For a contrast, white rice complements the brightly colored entrees.

A more subtle contrast is the use of green vegetables in the main dish versus the red vegetables it sits on, this adds visual interest and allows the main element to stand out in the image to grab the viewer's attention.

Neutral elements: Elements that do not attract attention.

Pretty much the same color as the background, just for storytelling purposes.

Contrast and Framing: Using Light and Dark This photo was taken at the edge of a white table, contrasting with the dark wood floor and chairs.

This creative tableau makes the food on the white table stand out, using a neutral background (table and wooden floor) to contrast with the colorful plates and plates.

Texture: Notice how everything in the picture looks flat and smooth except for the food?

This makes the food look more three-dimensional and appetizing.

Of course, the light also helps create just the right amount of shadow on the rice.

Off-center placement: Although it is effective to center the subject, it does work.

But moving the subject slightly off center creates an interesting asymmetrical balance in the image, as one side is heavier than the other, which adds even more interest.

EOS 70D, EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM, f/8, ISO 320, 1/5s, 29mm Figure composition: adding people as elements to a flat image it humanizes the image and makes people

There's a sense of engagement and the ability to bring life to life by taking action on the image, here's an example of visualizing life through a cheese pull lens!

Tell a Story: Use elements like red berries and leaves.

It relates to food and adds content, mood and joy to the image.

Tips: 1. If you're not a food prep person you don't have much control over the colors that appear in your entrée, however, you can use elements that you have control over.

For example, props, backgrounds and compositions, try choosing props that tell a story, coloring the story to add to the image to make it look contrasting or using the same tones for a monotonous feel.

2. Flat-lying photos are not suitable for all kinds of food. Some dishes will look better from other angles.

However, you can still experiment with placing the food as you wish, for example, you can stack burgers to display the food from different angles by cutting it in half and pointing it upwards.

3. Use a tripod so you can shoot from above without having to hold the camera with your hands to comfortably view the screen (phone, tablet or computer when using tethered shooting) and to help compose your shot while being more precise

Adjustments can be made this way by placing your own hands in the picture.