Food photography and food styling may seem similar at first glance, but in reality, they are two distinct professions that together create breathtaking culinary images. In this article, I’ll explain the key differences between the two, who does what, and how they work hand in hand to make dishes not only delicious but also visually irresistible.

What is Food Photography?

Food photography is the art of capturing visually enticing images of dishes—at least if we want to be technical. But it’s much more than that: it’s a blend of visual storytelling and temptation. The right image can inspire you to start cooking in your own kitchen or to pick up the phone and book a table at a restaurant.

With a smartphone in hand, almost anyone can take a food photo—or can they? True food photography is far more complex than just snapping with your phone. It requires clever composition, proper lighting, and technical skills to present dishes in their most mouthwatering form.

A skilled food photographer carefully chooses angles, lighting, props, and backgrounds to build a visually compelling narrative—always keeping the client’s vision in mind.

A food photographer highlights the colors, textures, and intricate details of a dish, allowing viewers to appreciate the artistry behind the food itself.

To use a bit of jargon: depth of field, focus, and lighting adjustments are what truly bring food to life in a photograph.

In short, the main goal of food photography is to captivate and engage viewers—stirring emotions, awakening desire, and inspiring action.

What is Food Styling?

Now that we’ve covered what a food photographer does, let’s look at the role of a food stylist—and why their presence is crucial for a professional shoot.

Food styling is the process of arranging and presenting food for photography.

It involves carefully arranging elements on a plate, adding garnishes, and creatively playing with colors, shapes, and textures.

The goal of the food stylist is to create an aesthetic composition that the photographer can capture.

Food stylists often work alongside photographers to ensure the perfect balance between visual appeal and authenticity.

Food styling aims to enhance a dish’s visual appeal while staying true to its essence.

Techniques may include layering ingredients, using props or tableware, and applying different glazing methods to achieve the desired look.

The ultimate goal is to create an inviting composition that not only seduces the eye but also conveys the story and essence of the dish.

Is a Food Photographer also a Food Stylist?

Yes and no. Most photographers who don’t specialize in food don’t handle food styling themselves.

Their role is to photograph the plated dishes and handle post-processing. Conversely, not all food stylists are photographers.

In Western markets, these two fields are largely separate, and both a food stylist and a food photographer are typically present at a shoot. On larger projects, a prop stylist is also hired to design and build the visual environment around the dish.

If you’re looking for a professional result in a cost-effective way, choose a food photographer—like myself—who masters both food photography and styling.