Food styling isn’t just about making things look pretty on a plate- it’s a serious skill that blends culinary chops with visual artistry. Whether you’re a restaurant owner, brand manager, or just curious how that gooey cheese pull looks so perfect, here are five behind-the-scenes facts about food styling you should know.
1. Food styling roots often grow in culinary school. 👨🍳
Many food stylists start their journey in professional kitchens. That foundation in technique, plating, and flavor combinations is what helps them make dishes look delicious and believable on camera.
2. Sweet or savory? You need to master both. 🍬🍖
Stylists must know how to handle delicate pastries and hearty mains. Understanding how each type of food reacts under lights, in prep, and in camera-ready moments is essential.
3. Freelance hustle is part of the gig. 💼
Most food stylists work as freelancers, managing their own schedules, clients, and projects. A flexible, business-minded approach is key.
4. A food stylist wears a lot of hats. 🎩🛒🍽️🧼
Shopping, prepping, cooking, plating, propping, cleaning- yes, even dish duty. It’s not all glamour, but it’s all part of the magic.
5. Sometimes food stops feeling like… food. 🧠🍔🎭
When your brain shifts into “prop mode,” even a juicy burger becomes a puzzle of textures and colors. But hey, if it makes the viewer drool, it’s worth it.
✨ Pictured: Grilled Summer Vegetable Stack with fresh mozzarella, topped with a bold, flavor-packed Calabrian Chili Pepper Romesco Sauce
📸 www.LivWellFoods.com
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Let’s cook up some magic together- email info@jessieleephotography.com to get started.
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