Phone food photos that look delicious
Restaurant and home food photos with a phone. Angles, light and editing tips for appetizing results on social media.
Food is one of the most photographed subjects on phones. A few techniques make dishes look as good as they taste.
Find side light
Sit by a window or move the plate toward the light. Side light shows texture; overhead restaurant lights flatten food.
Avoid flash
Phone flash makes food look greasy and flat. Use natural light or ask a friend to light the dish with their phone’s flashlight from the side, diffused through a napkin.
Choose the angle
- Overhead for tables, pizzas and bowls
- 45 degrees for most plates
- Eye level for burgers, drinks and layered desserts
Clean the scene
Move used napkins, phones and empty glasses out of the frame.
Use the telephoto lens
The 2x lens avoids distortion and makes plates look more natural.
Edit for appetite
Slightly increase warmth, exposure and contrast. Avoid oversaturating; neon colors look unappetizing.
Be considerate
In restaurants, shoot quickly so food stays warm and other diners are not disturbed.
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