I often get asked about the gear and equipment I use. So here is a list of all of the things I currently use in my photography:
My camera
I use a full-frame Canon EOS 6D. It has relatively small body, and fits very well in hand. This camera produces incredible quality images and has built-in wi-fi function which is very handy, especially when shooting on location!
Lenses
When I started my journey with food photography, I’ve been using only one lens, Canon EF 50 mm 1.8, aka ‘nifty fifty’. It’s a great ‘all-rounder’ , very affordable, small and light- weight lens, favoured by many photographers. It is great for simple overhead and straight-on angles.
Another lens in my kit is Canon EF 24-70 mm 2.8. It’s much bigger and heavier than 50 mm lens, but it’s also giving you a great range and it’s super versatile. I use it for most of my overhead shots, when I want to fit more into the frame. This one is also great for travelling (despite the weight!).
I also have Sigma 105 mm f2.8 OS macro lens, which I absolutely love. It allows me to take super-close-up shots, capturing even the tiniest of the details. Great for all the angles, but much tighter shot in comparison with the other two lenses. I personally think it’s a must-have for any food photographer.
Tripod
Good, sturdy and quality tripod is a must-have, if you want to capture sharp, fine images. It eliminates the possibility of any unwanted blur and allows me to shoot at slow shutter speed in low-light conditions. I have Manfrotto 055 and I use it 99.9% of the time. What’s great about this particular model is the fact that it has a horizontal column in the middle, which acts as an extension arm. Very handy, especially for overhead shots.
C-stand
Very recently, I have invested in a heavy-duty C-stand and I’m totally in love with it! It is a super sturdy, versatile and very reliable piece of equipment. Great for any overheads, as well as attaching lights and different clips to it. Very handy for making overhead-style videos! I use Neewer 3 meter c stand with 1.2 m holding arm. It’s worth mentioning that this is very heavy piece of gear. It also takes quite a lot of space, so it may not be suitable if you shooting in a tiny space.
Lights
As much as I love natural light, sometimes it’s simply not possible or not available. Occasionally, I shoot with artificial light. I use Yonguno YN560 IV YN-560IV Wireless Flash Speedlite with wireless flash trigger.
Anything else?
When shooting, almost 100% of the time I shoot tethered. It allows me to see the results on my screen immediately, and this way, I can ensure that my photos are looking exactly how I want them to look, in line with my vision.
I also have a selection of diffusers, which are another must-have, if you ask me. They allow me to block or bounce the light, as well as helping me to spread soft light all over my scene.
For post- production and editing my images, I use Lightroom and Photoshop.
