Behind the Scenes: My Food Photography Process
Ever wonder how a simple dish turns into a scroll-stopping image? I believe in keeping things transparent. Take a look into my Navi Mumbai home studio to see how I use lighting, props, and creative problem-solving to bring your food story to life, from the initial setup to the final, edited shot.
This video is a little piece of my heart. It shares my journey and how the movie 'Tamasha' inspired me to follow my passion for photography, showing glimpses of me at work, styling products and finding my calling behind the camera.
Here’s a little peek into how the magic happens in my studio. This video shows the transformation from a simple setup with a waffle and some props to the final, moody, vintage-style photographs. It’s all about vision, styling, and the right light.
A fun behind-the-scenes look at a beverage shoot. This video shows me setting up the shot with my lighting and camera, and then reveals the final, polished images with different backgrounds.
This video shows how I turn a corner of my living room into a cozy tea-time scene. You can see the setup with a simple backdrop and props, and then the final, beautifully lit and styled photographs.
A behind-the-scenes reel showing the setup for a vintage tea still life. It reveals how I use simple props, a backdrop, and lighting to create a dark, moody, and atmospheric final shot.
A heartwarming behind-the-scenes video of a popcorn shoot featuring my best little model, my son. It shows the fun we had getting the shot and then presents the final, adorable photos.
This video demonstrates how I create a dynamic splash photography shot. You can see the simple setup with my camera and lighting, followed by the exciting, high-speed final images.
About My Process: From Setup to Final Shot
You won't find a sterile, high-end studio here. My workspace is an extension of my home in Navi Mumbai, where I turn kitchen corners into sets using basic lighting, old wooden boards, and items from my own kitchen. When you work with me, you see the full picture—cables, clamps, and all—because I believe the best shots come from creative problem-solving rather than expensive gear.
People often think you need a massive studio or high-end equipment to create appetizing food photography. My approach is built on the belief that your vision matters more than the gear. Whether I am shooting a levitation shot for a spice brand or capturing a cozy tea-time scene, I prioritize the story behind the image.
My Technical Setup
I shoot mostly with a Canon EOS M50 Mark II and a 50mm prime lens. For lighting, I keep it simple—a single Godox softbox or controlled natural window light. This setup is perfect for cafe owners, home bakers, and food brands that want clean, relatable content for Zomato, Swiggy, or Instagram without the high costs of a commercial production.
How We Work Together
When you book a session (usually 4-5 hours), you get full transparency. I show you how I position the props—like dog-eared books, fairy lights, or textured backdrops—to set the mood. I also integrate the human element, such as a hand pouring tea or a splash of liquid, to make the image feel alive.
If you are a cafe owner or a food brand in the Mumbai Metropolitan Area, my process is designed to be accessible and collaborative. We start with your brief, I set up the scene in my home studio, and we refine the lighting together until it clicks. No pretension, just honest, visual storytelling.
Similar work from other experts
Browse through Curated picks from other experts on mytribe
Behind the Scenes: The Real Food Photography Process
Behind the Scenes: The Art and Science of Food Photography
Behind the Scenes: My Studio Process & Styling
10Behind the Lens: My Process and Technique
8
Behind the Scenes of Professional Food Photography in Mumbai
4Behind the Scenes of My Food Photography Journey
Looking for something else?
Explore my other photography services and categories below.
More from Food Photography & Styling by Ayesha Ahmad
More services by Ayesha Ahmad