Need Tips on Finding a Food Photographer

[BettyPC]

I have tried to take my own food product shots of steaks, hamburger, etc for a family farm using tips on this site. Some photos have turned out ok but nothing at the level of a professional food photographer.

Food photographers have to have a lot of creativity to stage their shots. I have run out of creative staging ideas rather quickly.

Anyone have suggestions for finding an affordable but great food photographer which would make original product photos? Also, what is a reasonable rate for this type of work? How do I assure the photos are just licensed only for this farm's use?

Since it is a family farm . . . they need some affordable solution. Should I contact an art school or maybe a place that teaches photography?

There's plenty of folks here willing to do it, I'm sure.

I'd be one of those folks willing to make a bid if you'd like.

~Eric

[andyw]

Good food photography is a pretty spe******t field and not something that photography students are likely to be expert in.

Neither does it come cheap when done properly.

If you say where you are based then maybe people could make some suggestions or even bid for the work themselves.

[BCampbell]

Originally Posted by andyw

Good food photography is a pretty spe******t field and not something that photography students are likely to be expert in.

+1

Not only is it spe******t, but it requires just as much gear, experience, and skill as studio portraiture, weddings, etc., and doesn't quite have the same flash as those. So there aren't that many people doing it at a high level.

But, most photographers these days, at least the ones I'm guessing you're prepared to fit in your budget, handle multiple genres. They will probably not advertise themselves primarily as food photographers because it's not in demand as much as weddings or pets or whatever. Look for photographers in your area and check their portfolios; you'll probably find one or two with some food shots. Lacking that, look for those who do product photography and ask them if they have experience with food.

Also, most areas have regional magazines, either for mid-sized metro areas or multi-county regions, whatever. Look through your regional publications, and see if there are any devoted to food -- if not, find ones that have regular food columns. See who shoots for them and get in touch.