So as most of you know, I recently got my Canon D3000 DSLR camera for my birthday and I'm really, really enjoying it! It's just frustrating that I have NO windows in my kitchen (thanks little apartment) so I'm forced to go outside on my deck for a desperate attempt at getting great photos. That's super fun considering after I cook a delicious, HOT meal I have to take that meal outside, sit it down on the floor of my deck and take about 20 photos of it.....gross I know. So I found this super fun cheat sheet to help us new photographers out!
Pretty cool, huh?
So, in an effort to learn from my mistakes, I wanted to share my progression so far and would love to hear ANY feedback as to what I'm doing wrong or what I need to change in order to better my photos. This is a learning experience after all and constructive criticism is welcome!
....nicely of course ;)
....nicely of course ;)
Here's my very FIRST dish taken with my DSLR camera. This one I was not pleased with at all...the lighting was all wrong, I took the photo inside, and I definitely didn't angle the food correctly as clearly you can see where my backdrop meets the counter (oops). So I decided to practice some more.
These photos were taken on the same day and was my second attempt at taking photos. I guess I did a little bit better considering my sun dried tomato dip was accepted onto Foodgawker! (yaaaay!) The other one was rejected due to the photo not being clear enough and the plate being "awkward"...sigh.
Last, but not least, these are my most recent and the ones I'm most proud of so far. I lowered my aperture to as LOW as it would go (which on my camera is only 3.5) and I tried to get it as clear as possible. I know it takes more practice, but I just wish I knew how people obtain photos that come out so incredibly clear and focused and that are accepted onto Foodgawker or Tastespotting every time! So jealous.
I guess I just have these main questions:
1. Do I need to purchase a 50 mm lens to obtain that true blurred background effect that looks so amazing in photos?
2. What does it mean to be in "macro mode" and is that the best mode to be in when taking pictures of food?
3. What types of photoshop programs are best to use when editing your pictures? (Right now I'm using picnik)
4. Will I get a more focused photo if I use a tripod rather than my free hand?
5. How long does it take to master photography without ripping all your hair out?!?!
Just kidding about the last one :)
I suppose for now I'm going to watch Youtube tutorials and read up on everything I can about photography. This book Plate to Pixel was recommended to me and I can't wait to read it!
Hopefully this time next year I'll be looking back on all these photos and will be able to see some real progress. Even the best photographers had to start somewhere, right??
Thanks for listening to my little rant. Plating food and taking pictures of each dish was something that really intrigued me when I started blogging and it's also something I'm bound and determined to master! I'm sure even professionals still learn something new each day so there IS hope! I'm excited to share this journey with you all and thanks so much for always sending nice comments my way :) Each and every one of them are SO appreciated and make my day!!
71 lovely comments:
I have a point and shoot but just read Plate to Pixel and am contemplating getting a new camera. I'm trying to learn too. Thanks for sharing about your photo experiments.
I REALLY wish I new how photographers get such clear, sharp photos with basic entry level cameras as well. Is it the lens? Is it photoshop? What is it?!
In other news, you're progress is looking great :)
I love this post! I can totally relate! I finished plate to pixel and it made my food photography so much better, but I still have so much to learn. It really is an excellent resource.
I love your cheat sheet too! That was one of the most confusing parts for me in the beginning.
By the way, I think your photos look great.
I have a 50mm and it is much easier to get the blurred background effect with it, but I think you can come close with other lenses by playing around with the distance between your main object and the background, as well as with the aperture setting (lower f stop means more shallow depth of field which means more blurry background I think).
Definitely more in-focus pictures with a tripod. If you're shooting with a lot of light, you can get away with a higher shutter speed and no tripod. I'm usually in a rush so I'm always shooting without a tripod and I'm always getting blurry pictures.
I love Lightroom for editing. One of the drawbacks is I don't think it has the text and stamp effects that Picnik does, but you can always export out of Lightroom and edit in Picnik. If you know someone who is an educator or student, they can get the program for $80.
I'm still learning too so if you ever want to chat, email me!
I totally feel you on the huge learning curve when it comes to photography! And that cheat sheet you found is definitely a great place to start. I'm by no means a great photog, but here's what I've learned regarding your questions over the past few years:
1) Yes. That 3.5f you're seeing on your camera is due to your lens, not your camera. Depending on which 50mm you get you can go as low as 1.8 or 1.4. That large aperture opening is what gives you that super shallow depth of field, which comes with that nice blurred background. However, I will say, if you open your 50mm aperture all the way, you need a very steady hand and excellent focusing skills.
Does a 50mm give you better crispness at 4.0f vs. your current lens? Yes. Simply put, unless you have a fancy L lens, chances are the 50mm is a higher quality lens than what you're working with now. (Good news, the 1.8 50mm is only around $100 which is a steal in the lens world.)
2) I've never used it. Play with manual mode. I've found that works the best.
3) Photoshop Elements should be able to take care of almost anything you'd need editing-wise, and runs around $70-80 last time I checked. Not a bad investment considering the actual Photoshop runs a couple hundred. OR if you're tight on cash, GIMP is a free download and has a lot of the same features as PSE (way more than programs such as picnik and picasa).
4) Tripods can pretty much guarantee you a blur-free shot regardless of the lighting (though you still need to play with the settings). However, I find them to be cumbersome and hard to change shooting position (although I have a crappy tripod).
Hope that helps!
Kelly, your photos are great! As you know I am fairly new to the whole food photography thing..but everyone highly recommended the 50mm, I got it and I love it! it's a little more complicated, but the fade is great on it!
I love this post! I need to print out that cheat sheet. I have massive camera guilt- I got a nice canon 7D and I dont know how to use it that well. I am signing up for classes soon!! And I bought that book- but havent had the time to read it. Keep it up, you're progress is inspiring me to get back on it!
I*m so excited about that cheat sheet!! I too just got my Nikon D3100 a few days ago for my birthday and I*m so anxious to take some really good pictures!! I can see progress in your pictures already!! I can*t wait to learn more about what diffrent settings do!!
Hey wonderful, great, lovely friend!
So I already wrote all the answers to your questions and they got deleted somehow....so here goes round two, haha!
1. A 50mm lens is good but to blur your background it all has to deal with you aperture, it controls your depth of field. Below is a great site that tells you all about the lens
http://foodphotography101.wordpress.com/2010/04/21/the-best-dslr-lens-for-food-photography/
I have even used a telephoto lens which gets super close, it all just depends on what style you want for that particular photograph.
2. Macro mode means: You are taking a photograph really close up and you will get a lot of detail. For example if you did a picture of a flower with rain drops you will get great detail of the rain drop and flower, its pretty cool to play with
3. The best photoshop program overall is adobe photoshop and adobe bridge comes with it which is a wonderful photo organizer and it does a lot as well but for retouching and in general there is so much you can do in photoshop and if you shoot your photos in RAW, which if your not or do not know how to I can show you because RAW holds so much more information in your photo and with touching up you have so many more choices, also if you ever wanted to print big or if someone else wanted your photo big RAW is the way to go, because JPEG compresses. I will text you where to get photoshop.
4. You will DEF. get more a more focused photo using a tripod and you can lower your shutter some which will allow more light to come in. With a tripod you can get one that will still allow you to get all the angles you want, it is worth the money but don't get a cheap plastic one because with the weight of the camera and depending on the weight of the lens it can weigh it down and not stay where you want it.
5. You are doing wonderful! I am still learning everyday, and you will too as you sit and play around with it, its fun and can get annoying at the same time, but you will figure it all out :) if you ever need help or want me to come to the apt one time when you cook I will def come and help and give you some tips. Also when using natural light getting a reflector is a good idea too to help reflect the light on spots that may not be getting as much light as you need it truly makes a huge difference chris will have to hold it for you....yup I said it chris, and if you want a cheaper version of a reflector get a pop up car visor that has the silver on it or white foam board.
If you have any other questions just let me know!!!
love ya friend!!!
Heather
Thanks for sharing your frustrations. I'm going through the same thing, and feel like for every good photo I take, I take an equally awful one. Sometimes I think it's just fluke when they turn out great, since I can't make it happen every time. I don't have a DSLR camera like everyone says you need for food photos, but on mine, I usually use the macro mode, which is simply a setting intended for closer detail. It's one of the "best shots" modes, such a close up of a person, a person with background, sunset, children, etc, and the camera is supposed to compensate for whatever the situation is. I too, have the issue of living in a 3rd floor condo with no kitchen windows, and usually cooking at night, finishing after the sun is down, so even my balcony doesn't always have light. Did you read the recent post on 6 Bittersweets on food photography? A very comprehensive and incredibly helpful article, I thought. I'm going to start trying some of her techniques for "staging" which is one of the hardest things for me - trying to get rid of stuff in the background that I don't want in my pictures. Sorry for the long post! :)
Firstly, I love your blog and this is the second time I am commenting on a blog ever! So this is special. I completely and totally love this post. I am new at blogging and I know how important it is for your food to look good. You've made great progress so soon and all the tips and recipes are so helpful. Love your work. Love. Love. love.
Hi Kelly!
I LOVED this post. I have just recently understood the importance of a truly good picture. When I started blogging, I was only using a point and shoot camera. Now I still use it for the step by step pictures (I don't want to take the good lens to the kitchen... and get flour and stuff all over it... hehehe) and then use the DSRL for the final pictures.
I am not that good and I am still learning (especially on food styling), but I feel I too have progressed (you have too! I love your pictures).
After being through it, I think I can answer a couple of those questions with what is working for me.
I have bought a 50mm lens and LOVE it. I take ALL the final pictures with that lens. I have a 1.4 (which works best if you don't have a lot of light) and always use a tripod. It makes a big difference.
For editing, I use Lightroom and Picnik. Also, I have been advised by Nami to shoot in RAW AND JPEG format as that gives you more editing options.
As I am still learning, I am not shooting in total manual mode yet. I have a Canon and I put it on Av which lets you select the aperture only and automatically picks the best shutter speed. I find this easier for now and I can get the nicely blurred background (1.4 gives you the most blurring... the higher you go the less blurred the background gets... 4 is usually already a good blurred background).
It might help to get a photography lamp, especially going into winter. I still do not have one as I could not find a good one around here. But I am still looking.
I hope it helps! <3
Hi Kelly! I definitely have many of the same questions that you do when it comes to food photography. It is such a learning curve! When I was first researching DSLR cameras, I would read what other food bloggers said about the equipment they use. Most of them said they used the 50mm lens, but the one for my camera was over $500!! After shelling out for a new camera, I just couldn't fathom spending another huge amount of money on a lens.
A few other things I've learned though is to get lots of white boards to angle around my dishes (to get rid of shadows and take advantage of every drop of day light) and I bought a lightscoop (http://www.lightscoop.com/) for when I cook my dinner at a normal person time haha! I use macro too to pick up more details, but sometimes it really depends on the light.
Definitely still a work in progress for me. It's so nice that we are part of such a wonderful, helpful community though! I'm sure we will both get some answers to our questions eventually!
-Kelsey from K&K Test Kitchen
Love your last two photos!
Looks like were on the same boat except I still need a new camera lol. It can def get frustrating when you're trying to learn about the correct lighting, composition etc.
I actually just got the book in the mail today from amazon and on page 18. :) an awesome and informative read so far! Let me know what you think!
Great post!! I STINK at photography. I just can't seem to get into it either. I know I need to practice & research & etc etc etc. The photography part is just so overwhelming to me!! But you gave me some good motivation. :)
Hey Kelly, great post! I have a fuji and sadly not a slr but I do think your tips will help me too (gawd do I need it!)
I like macro it makes the closer up photos really detailed looking I find (in laments terms LOL)
Keep up the great work!!
@Running With the Deviled Eggs
Thanks for the cheat sheet! Very helpful! I'm still learning too. It can get very frustrating sometimes! Keep up the great work!
I think you are doing great with your new camera! I love the shot of the pasta. I wish I could offer more help but that is just not my area of expertise! Hopefully someday! Love your blog!
http://www.sincerelyarizona.blogspot.com/
I'm definitely not an expert, but I figured I'd give you my two cents since I think I've come a long way since I started blogging over 4 years ago. 1 - better equipment does not always mean better photos. I've always been told to learn to use what you have, and when you can, upgrade. I love my 50mm, but there are people that can even take gorgeous photos on a point and shoot. 3 - I use photoshop, but I was a lifestyle photographer for awhile, and that's why I needed it. For food photos, I do very little post processing, and I've actually heard really great things about Piknik. If you do want to use Photoshop, I don't think you'd need more than Elements. 4 - yes, a tripod will work miracles. You'll be surprised at how much of a difference it will make. I almost always use a tripod. Are you shooting on auto or manual or aperture or shutter speed? I shoot on aperture mode, and my rule of thumb is that if the shutter speed shows that it is less than 125, there is no way to get a crisp photo without a tripod. 5 - I don't know anyone that thinks they have mastered photography! There is always something new to learn. one thing that has helped me is to go to one of your favorite food bloggers site, and if they have been blogging for 3 or 4+ years, go back and look at their first photos. Most of them started out where the rest of us did. It's all about practicing, and I don't think it comes to anyone overnight. Read books (Helene's is great!) and take notes to what you like from other food photos. Be inspired by other bloggers, but find your own style and your own voice.
Wow - that was a mouthful. Like I said, I still feel like I have a long way to go most days, but if I look at my photos from even a year ago (and especially from the beginning of the blog) I can see that I have improved. I think you are doing a great job. Just keep doing what you are doing and it will all come together!!
Hi Kelly.. thanks for sharing this post. Firstly the book recommended is a GREAT BOOK.. I will need to get my hands on it. The book is published by famous blogger Tartelette (Helene Dujardin). She has an amazing website. I'm always in aww with her work and really helps me to improve. Check her out at http://www.tarteletteblog.com/. Well I'm not a professional photographer and have read on some tutorials since purchasing myself a Canon 1100D, a DSLR with kit lens. I'm going to be getting a macro lens soon. Here is what I discovered based on your questions, quite general answers but hope it helps a little.. ;)
1. Do I need to purchase a 50 mm lens to obtain that true blurred background effect that looks so amazing in photos?
My camera came with basic 18/50mm kit lens. Try taking photos using AV or Manual mode and not on Auto. To blur background, switch the settings of your lens to manual focus and not on auto focus. Setting should be at the side of lens. This way you get to turn the focus of your lens. Turn left and right, zoom in or out and experiment, you will notice the focus changes, whether the object becomes focused or blurred. Next is Aperture: you know those 'f -stops' like f/1.8 or f2.0 or f/22. What the number means is that the smaller the number, the shallower of depth. The focus will be more at front rather than the back. Refer here for example if you like: http://zoomyummy.com/2010/07/28/gosh-whats-aperture/
2. What does it mean to be in "macro mode" and is that the best mode to be in when taking pictures of food?
Macro lens: all the nitty gritty details will be shown on camera. It's like a magnifying glass.
3. What types of photoshop programs are best to use when editing your pictures? (Right now I'm using picnik)
Hmm.. I'm currently using a free software called Photoscape, but was advised by another friend that the Canon editing software provided in our CD is ultra powerful. If you do try out, do let me know what you think.
4. Will I get a more focused photo if I use a tripod rather than my free hand?
This is optional. I would say tripod comes in handy when you have lesser light to work with as the shutter speed will slow down while snapping the photo, and if using hand, you got to make sure your hands are ultra steady. Otherwise you will get a blurred picture. I am going to get tripod, so I no longer have to stand on a higher stool to take a top view shot.
Hope the above helps Kelly, I'm still learning a lot myself too!! xoxo- Jo
Your photos are looking FAB! I have a high-end point and shoot, but I dream of a DSLR...one day...one day!
This is a great post as I'm also trying to better my picture skills. I totally know what you mean by plating up and rushing to get a picture and dont worry I've done the deck place too and I'll let you into a secret, sometimes around dinner time my best natural light comes through the bathroom windows so yes a few of my pics have been taken in the bathroom :) I always eat that meal! The things we do for blogging...
Thanks for the tips.
I always love your photos! :)
The food pics looks good Kelly but of course we can improve it better. Just like you, I am still learning on my own.
Its all trial and error but must admire those who take superb food pics and its an advantage for sure.
I feel the same way about my pictures! The cheat sheet is very helpful. I'm super new at taking pictures of food and love getting feedback too. I really should check out that book you recommended!
WOW! Thank you to EVERYONE for such wonderful feedback, this is amazing and so incredibly helpful! I want to respond to each and every one of you!
@Jamie - Glad to hear Plate to Pixel really helped in your photography! I'm excited to get the book ASAP as well as a 50 mm lens! Thanks for all your help and I've heard great things about Lightroom :)
@Danielle - Wow all your feeback is so helpful, thank you! Good to know a 50 mm lens isn't as pricy as I had thought, I'll have to definitely look into that :) And thanks for the tips on photoshop programs!
@Rebecca - Thank you so much and I wish you the best of luck in learning your camera!
@Lindsey - How exciting you'll be taking classes! That's something I've been wanting to do and might just have to sign up for :) Best of luck to you and hope you enjoy the book!
@Ashley - Congratulations on your new Nikon, how exciting!! Best of luck to you and can't wait to see your progression!
@Heather - Awww you are TOO sweet for sharing all your photography knowledge! That's not only helpful to me but to everyone else having trouble :) Thank you so much friend, LOVE you!!
@Heather S. - That's too funny you can relate to me being on a third floor condo, you must know exactly how I feel and YES I wish my kitchen had windows! I was just pointed to 6 Bittersweets food photography post and I'll be reading up on that soon! Thanks!
@Sreesha - Awww thank you so much! I feel so honored that this is only the second time you've commented on a blog, I appreciate your feedback so much!! xoxo
@Manuela - Ahh your feedback is so incredibly helpful, thank you so much! You've justified my reasons for wanting a 50 mm lens so now I'm going to find one soon :) Thanks again! xoxo
@Kelsey - Thank you so much for your help, I'll have to check out the lightscoop you are talking about, sounds really great! Best of luck to you with your photography!
@Jess - How exciting you just got the book as well, I can't wait to get mine!
@Deborah - Wow your feedback is incredible! Thank you SO much, everything is so helpful! I'm definitely planning on getting a tripod soon, I know it will make huge changes :) And you are right, I love going back to beginning posts of my favorite bloggers to see how far they've come and grown, it's so inspiring!
@Jo - Thank you for also recommending that book, I'm so exciting to read it! And wow, all your information is so helpful, thank you so much!
@Ann - Thank you so much! I hope one day you get your DSLR as well, you'll have so much fun!!
@Foodness - Haha that's too funny you've shot in the bathroom! That is definitely something I would do!! Thank you so much for your help :)
@Alida - Aww thank you so much!
@Nava.K - Thank you so much and I couldn't agree more :)
@Becky - I'm so glad the cheat sheet is helpful to you, I hope you enjoy the book as much as I know I will! xoxo
Hi Kelly, I totally identify with the rushing outside to get decent light for photographs. I'm getting used to eating cold meals :) Congrats on the new camera. I hope you continue to have lots of fun with it. I'm thinking about the 50mm lens too. Ta for the cheat sheet.
Haha glad to know I'm not the only one Hester! Thank you so much and hope you have luck with a 50 mm lens too! :)
I love this post and loved reading all the comments. i'm going to bookmark it and come back form time to time to see if more helpful tips are written.
I have a DSLR and Helene's book but i have yet to find the time to read the camera's manual and Helene's book :(
Thank you for sharing this post! I'm struggling with taking good food photos too. If I do take a decent photo it is purely by accident. I don't have a DSLR camera or photo processing software and I hate to invest the money until I get a little better using my point and shoot. I’ve tried using macro mode but I’m not sure it helps me any. I’m thinking a tripod might help with some of the blurriness in my photos. I do have plenty of natural light in my kitchen but it is usually gone by the time I am ready to take photos. My other big problem is staging. I plan to read Plate to Pixel and I wonder if a photography class would help any.
Your food, and photos, are gorgeous so I can't wait to see how you progress. I will be watching with envy...I am trying to decide on a new camera...so many decisions.
Congrats on the new camera, and your photos do look mouthwatering. Yea food photography and styling is def. challenging sometimes, but it seems to me for you it comes naturally!
Such good questions!! I am just starting to get familiar with my DSLR too. I loved your little cheat sheet!
@Rachel & Sandra - Aww thank you so much!! I agree it is really challenging, but a fun process to learn :)
@Steph - I'm glad you like the cheat sheet! Isn't having a DSLR so fun?? Best of luck to you as well! xoxo
This is such a great post since I'm going through the same thing! Your tips are great and I've never tried it on the lowest aperature so I will def try it!
I get so frustrated a lot with all the millions of settings and after 8 months with my camera i finally bought a Groupon to do a 5 hour DSLR class (for $45!) and it's this sunday so I cannot wait!
I purchased a 50 mm on ebay for $30 and I highly recommend it!! It's the cheapest lens you can get but it makes such a huge difference. It definitely gives photos a more "artsy" feel to it and the bokeh effect is just stunning (once you learn how!)
I look forward to sharing our intro to DSLR experience together!
I have no windows in my kitchen either, it can be very frustrating!
http://chicgeekery.blogspot.com/
Keep up the great work girl! It is all about practice:)
You don't need a 50mm though it can make things easier. Bokeh is just through aperature. Open it up as far as it will go. The problem with super open aperatures (1.4) is that sometimes you lose focus on all your cookies and just get one really sharp. Just takes practice learning what aperature works with what subjects.
Tripods definitely help. And I use macro a lot in food and baby photography. Okay, this is turning into a novel. Sorry!
As you know, I am no photographer and have just a point-and-shoot. I didn't see that Adam from Picture Perfect Meals had responded so I don't know if you guys are connected. You need to look him up and talk to him. He's a professional food photographer and has worked for Southern Living and the like. VERY nice guy (we've had dinner with he and his wonderful wife, Cheryl) and he'll help you answer any and all the questions you have.
Personally, I wish my photos were half as good as yours.
Kelly this post is awesome. It's so funny because I basically have all the same questions. I JUST got a tripod yesterday. My boyfriend found it on amazon for me really cheap and surprised me with it.
Im saving for 50mm next. We also just got a flash defuser. I dont even know if it will help but I also have to carry my food out to the patio in our apartment to get good light.
Last week I had to take my cupcakes outside by a picnic bench by this pond in our complex. Let me tell you ... people thought I was really weird at 6am. with cupcakes and a camera.
Thanks for posting this -- it was helpful for me too. I'm going to get that book!
Wonderful post and one that I think most of us can relate to. Congrats on being accepted at FoodGawker, they're a pretty tough sell. Your photos are improving and you should be very proud. I'm still working with a point and shoot and hope to upgrade by the end of the year. Great advice from the other commenters also.
I have a Canon Rebel xTi that I'm still trying to figure out how to use. I can't wait to see your progression!! Thanks for the cheat sheet. And I bought that book recently too. Good luck!!
The progression of your photos is impressive.
Macro mode just means it can focus on the close shots with lots of detail and sometimes it increases the color saturation.
Photoshop is great but also has a steep learning curve. Lightroom is great for basic photography needs.
your photos are getting better and better! I know what you mean, I'll make dinner and practically scream at my husband to not take a bite before I get my photos! :)
Good luck with the photography! Brian from My Food Thoughts put up a great tutorial somewhat recently, go check it out!
great photos, the blueberry bread looks good enough to eat!
I think your pictures have gotten better. Your granola bars look great!
I should be getting my copy of Plate to Pixel soon and I can't wait to start reading it. If it has helped you this much, let's hope it will help me too, even if I don't have a manual camera.
Best of luck and hang in there. All of sudden your pictures will be perfect and you will be laughing about the learning process. :)
Congratulations on your new camera and your excellent efforts! As you did ask for input Adam wants you to know that you have it backwards when it comes to lowering your aperture:
The smallest or lowest aperture for clearest pictures is actually f16 or f22 on you lens The bigger the number the smaller the aperture the clearer the picture - it's called depth of field. The smaller the number the less depth of field and the blurrier areas of the image will be, which can be used very effectively, by the way. (This is one of the more confusing things to figure out in photography). I hope this hasn't overstepped our bounds, and I hope it is helpful.
If you have any other questions Adam will be happy to answer them, you can email him at info@pictureperfectmeals.com.
wow your photos are already great!
you're gorgeous, by the way!
You are doing great! Love the shot of the blueberry loaf. I found my pictures really improved with the 50mm lens (I have the 1.4). It lets in a lot of light, so very good for clicking in low light and evenings especially. I have just been using Photoshop to post process my photos but starting today, I am experimenting with Lightroom and shooting in RAW.
A tripod is really good for getting those crisp sharp precise shots. I found that the more I practised, the steadier my hand became and now I shoot in tandem .. tripod and tripod free.
Enjoy it! You obviously do :-) And that will make all the difference. Good luck!
I am hoping for one of these cameras for my birthday next month. Until then I don't have any suggestions but I can tell you are adjusting well. The most recent photos are great. From the looks of your comments though you are getting plenty of help. Cannot wait to see where it takes you!
I love this Kelly! what a great idea. I have the same issues with my pictures so whatever you find I am completely going to follow. Plus this book looks great.
You're doing great! You have a lot of accepted photos in a short amount of time. Seriously!
You definitely want a tripod. I shoot almost all my photos with one and those that I hand hold usually have some blur. It also depends on your hands and how steady they are. I will sometimes hand hold and prop my arms on a table or countertop, etc.
A good lens makes a huge huge huge difference. A lot of it is the glass. Typically, kit lenses, those that come with the camera are throw away lenses. They are lower quality glass and the aperture is not what you are looking for in this type of photography.
I'm loving life now that I sprung for a 50mm. I may have mentioned this before, but not far from you is Ace Photo and those guys are so darn good and helpful. You could go in there and pick their brains and head home to Amazon and purchase tax and shipping free, but I felt like they took such good care of me and spent so much time that I couldn't do that to them. LOL They will teach you and that store has EVERYTHING you will ever want in camera gear. Walk into the back and you'll be overwhelmed. My friend told me they even have a 2nd floor which I was unaware of. Wow!
Lighting is key and you've nailed that. It's awful that you have to bend over to catch your shots on the floor of the deck. Maybe you can pick up a cheap table at Target and a nice piece of fabric and make a little "studio" out of it. I've been using a nice cutting board which works pretty well.
You'll find yourself shopping for props a lot and sometimes you'll be out and about and say -- ah! That would make a great prop for my photography! Look around your house too. You never know what's lurking in drawers and closets.
I think you're doing a great job! Keep at it and thanks for the handy cheat sheet! It's great.
Great post, Kelly. As a new blogger and a food photographer neophyte, it's nice to know that other bloggers are asking the same types of questions! I added the Plate to Pixel for my birthday next month and I am starting a camera fund! We are all going to learn slowly, but surely! :)
Oh goodness, looks like you've already gotten a bunch of answers on this one! I'd say yes on the tripod for sure. Definitely absolutely positive. Get a good one that isn't super hard to adjust and move around and you'll absolutely love it. End of story. ;)
Much Love,
Trissta
www.livingonthechic.com
How on earth am I JUST NOW finding your blog?? LOVE IT! NEWEST follower :)
I think you've improved a lot just in the batches of photos you've shown here!
I have used the 50mm 1.8 for the last 4 years on my old Canon Rebel but I recently upgraded my camera and bought a 100mm macro lens and use that almost exclusively for food. It is a dream.
If you want those super sharp photos, you need to use a high ISO (if your camera can handle it without grain) or a tripod. You want your shutter speed to be around 1/125 if you're shooting hand held to get good clarity - sometimes you can get away with as low as 1/60 but that can be pushing it and you'll wind up with blur. A lens with IS (image stabilization) can help too but they can be a little more expensive.
Shooting in RAW is best for post processing - you don't damage the "negative" when you make changes to it, like you do with a .jpg (each time you make edit a .jpg, you lose file quality).
I just moved to Lightroom for editing. I used to use Photoshop and Bridge but they are so clunky in comparison. I do sometimes open the image in Photoshop after I've edited it LR if I need to touchups. And you can add watermarks and such in LR.
And for your last question... FOREVER! lol. Good luck and keep practicing!
Wow, looks like you got quite a bit of feedback. Out of the photos you posted, I absolutely loved the crumble bars (I made up the name myself):)
I am no expert but I will give you some of my opinions anyway :)
1. I would recommend buying a 50mm lens. Your photos will be much better. If you don't want to spend a ton, the Canon 50mm f1.8 is a good value for the price. It'll run you around $100. You will be able to obtain that shallow depth of field that you're seeking.
2. I don't know much about macro mode. But basically I think it means you're magnifying your subject. (Please don't quote me on this).
3. I personally use Adobe Lightroom 3 and find it to be perfect for editing my photos.
4. You will certainly get a sharper and more focused photo if you use a tripod. Especially if you have that pesky problem of not enough lighting:) Combine the f1.8 lens with a tripod, and you have a lot more possibilities for shooting in low light situations.
5. I have the same question:) Seems like everyone around me mastered it but me:)
I am curious about this Plate to Pixel book. Let me know what you think of it.
Really cool and interesting. You're photos are really beautiful, don't worry about that silly foodgawker/tastespotting stuff. You're good with a camera, equipment can't give someone your natural talent.
Wow, I'm impressed with the skill you have already. Those last two photos are gorgeous. I think food photography skills not only demand a good lens, but they also demand a good eye for what the picture should look like.
I have a 50mm lens and a 18-135mm lens for my Canon T1i. I have been using the zoom lens more for my food now that I purchased it because I can get better close-ups. You can only get so close with that 50mm. On the other hand, I absolutely ADORE my 50mm lens. I only have two and will probably stay that way for some time. The only problem with stopping all the way down on the 50mm is you may blur part of the photo you want to keep in focus.
I found these two things important without the need for a new lens: keep the food object close to the camera and the background further away. This will help blur out the background. Always use natural light. Wait till morning to shoot if you're baking at night.
The photo journey is fun. One thing I have learned it to buy a lens and learn it. They are expensive but worth it.
In my experience (and I am definitely no expert):
1. No. but the 50 mm is easy to do this with. Use the lenses you have and open the aperture all the way and see what happens.
2. I rarely use macro but I am sure it has to do with shooting close up.
3.I love Photoshop elements and RAW
4. even a cheap tripod will help tons
5. there is always something new to master and with digital photography and computers it is endless. I find that sticking to old school concepts is very helpful and not to get caught up to much in technology!
Thanks for letting me share. I love you adventure.
I'm in the same boat! playing with my new DSLR and learning everything i can about photography! its so much fun!
I have a giveaway on my site right now on a Say No to Auto about shooting in Manual with a DSLR.
I also have reviewed Plate to Pixel (love it!!)
And just got back from 2 photog workshops that had to do with food photography. All linked up in my photog tab.
Just found your blog from the guestie you did on Deb/Tasteandtell's site
And I love your blog!
Those pictures are awesome!
I just found your blog today and would love for you to check mine out and follow back! :)
bmaryandblessed.blogspot.com
Hi Kelly, thanks so much for stopping by my blog and saying hello. I came by yesterday to take a peek at your space here and hello? I am in LOVE! I love all these recipes for healthy eating and your photography (beginner or not) is pretty to look at, too!
So happy that you visited me so that I could find my way to you! :)
Hope you are having a beautiful week!
Aloha,
Angie
Great work getting accepted to Foodgawker!
Just remember great photography is #1 about knowledge, and you'll get better and better with experience, no matter what equipment you have. It sounds like you are building on what you know now, and that will be your strongest tool in the long run.
There's an incredible amount of photography advice about what lens you "need" etc etc. I have a 100mm macro, 50mm, 30mm, 18-55mm, 17-40mm and honestly, they are all great for different purposes. Learn the manual functions of your camera and keep up with practicing and submitting to foodgawker/tastespotting. You'll eventually figure out which lens adapts to your style, instead of buying a lens and learning how to make it look like you.
Great work so far, happy to stumble on your blog!
What a great post topic and such wonderful information from all of your lovely readers too! I can totally relate to rushing outside, especially now that we are losing daylight!
I only have a point and shoot, and at this point, I am not trying to be a professional photographer, but at least post photos that are decent looking and not dark/blurry. Husband says I can have a new camera for Christmas, but until then.... Anyone else currently using a point and shoot and have any pointers as far as settings, to zoom or not to zoom, ideas for creating more natural light?
Hi Kelly,
Loved reading about your process! Yay for you for teaching yourself and getting better each time out!
Say, I have a couple of quickie tutorials on my photo blog that might help. find them here:
http://takethepicturealready.blogspot.com/2011/05/using-available-light-for-food.html
http://takethepicturealready.blogspot.com/2010/06/daily-elph-005-dont-discount-snappies.html
http://takethepicturealready.blogspot.com/2010/05/lighting-how-to-its-all-smoke-and.html
Happy Weekend!
Great tips - thanks for sharing! I've been thinking about going for a nice camera for a while but always get a bit nervous that I won't even know how to use it to it's full potential - looks like you're already off to a great start!
Not sure if you have already purchased a 50mm lens, but on a d3000/d31000 wont autofocus with this camera.
though learning manually is always a good thing. But this happened to me.
Kelly,
Just came across this old post of your while looking for food photography tips and can't tell you how much it means to hear that someone that I admire so much also struggled with similar things in the beginning. I literally thought I was the only one to be constantly disappointed when I add another "decline" to my food gawker list :/ ha ha And I would have never guessed that YOU would have ever been turned down...geez! Thanks for reminding me that its okay to start at the bottom and with hard work, I am not a lost cause in photography!
xx, sam
Just found your blog today - Wow! Your photos have come a looooong way! Very nice - isn't improvement fun??? :)
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