Penny De Los Santos
"My goal as a food photographer is to capture not just the beauty of a dish, but the story and emotion behind it."
Penny De Los Santos (website) is an accomplished food photographer, known for her ability to tell captivating stories through her images. Her work has been featured in prestigious publications such as Saveur, National Geographic, and The New York Times. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for capturing the essence of the culinary experience, Penny De Los Santos has become one of the most sought-after food photographers in the industry.
Early Life and Career
Penny De Los Santos was born and raised in Texas, where her love for photography and storytelling began. She pursued her passion and earned a Bachelor of Journalism in Photojournalism from the University of Texas at Austin. Penny then went on to earn a Master's degree in Visual Communication from Ohio University.
After completing her education, Penny began her career as a photojournalist, capturing the lives and cultures of people around the world. It was during these travels that she discovered her passion for food photography, realizing that the stories behind the food we eat are just as important as the dishes themselves. This realization led her to focus on food photography and storytelling, a decision that would shape her illustrious career.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Penny De Los Santos has a unique approach to food photography, emphasizing the stories and cultural connections behind the dishes she photographs. By focusing on the people, places, and processes that make each dish special, Penny is able to create images that are not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful.
Her photographic style is characterized by a mix of documentary and editorial techniques, with an emphasis on natural lighting and authentic settings. Penny often shoots on location, capturing the true essence of a dish in its natural environment. This approach allows her to create images that are not only beautiful but also tell a story about the food and the people who create it.
Career Highlights
Throughout her career, Penny De Los Santos has had the opportunity to work with numerous renowned publications and clients. Some of her most notable accomplishments include:
Regular contributions to Saveur Magazine, showcasing her ability to tell culinary stories from around the world.
Features in National Geographic and The New York Times, highlighting her unique style and storytelling capabilities.
Collaborations with major food brands, such as Whole Foods and Chipotle, showcasing her ability to create captivating images for commercial purposes.
Photography Gear
Penny De Los Santos uses a variety of photography gear to capture her stunning images. Some of her go-to equipment includes:
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV: This full-frame DSLR is perfect for Penny's on-location shoots, offering high-resolution images and exceptional low-light performance.
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM: This versatile zoom lens allows Penny to capture everything from wide-angle scenes to close-up details, making it an invaluable tool in her kit.
Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM: This fast prime lens is ideal for capturing stunning portraits and food close-ups, with beautiful bokeh and sharp image quality.
Photography Books
"The Skinnytaste Cookbook: Light on Calories, Big on Flavor" showcases Penny De Los Santos' exceptional photography skills while providing readers with mouthwatering, healthy recipes. Her unique ability to capture the essence of each dish makes this book an invaluable resource for photographers seeking inspiration in food photography.
In "BraveTart: Iconic American Desserts", Penny De Los Santos' captivating photography elevates the presentation of classic American desserts. Her skillful use of lighting and composition offers valuable insights and techniques for photographers looking to hone their craft in dessert photography.
"The Malaysian Kitchen: 150 Recipes for Simple Home Cooking" features Penny De Los Santos' stunning photography, highlighting the vibrant colors and textures of Malaysian cuisine. This book serves as an excellent source of inspiration for photographers interested in capturing the diverse flavors of international cuisine.
"Asian Dumplings: Mastering Gyoza, Spring Rolls, Samosas, and More" demonstrates Penny De Los Santos' talent for capturing the intricate details of various dumplings. Her photography offers inspiration for photographers looking to convey the artistry and craftsmanship behind these beloved dishes.
Finally, "Gluten-Free Girl Every Day" showcases Penny De Los Santos' ability to make gluten-free dishes look as appetizing as their traditional counterparts. Her photography techniques and unique perspectives make this book a valuable resource for photographers seeking to excel in food photography, especially within the realm of specialized diets.
Quotes
"Food is a universal language. It's a way for us to connect and share our stories, our traditions, and our cultures with one another."
"My goal as a food photographer is to capture not just the beauty of a dish, but the story and emotion behind it."
"I believe that the key to great food photography is authenticity capturing the true essence of a dish and the people who create it."
"I approach each dish as a unique story waiting to be told, and I try to bring that story to life through my images."
"For me, photography is a way to explore the world and share the beauty and diversity of the culinary experiences I encounter."
Legacy and Influence
Penny De Los Santos has made a significant impact in the world of food photography through her unique storytelling approach and her ability to capture the essence of a dish. Her work has inspired a new generation of photographers to look beyond the mere aesthetics of food and focus on the stories and cultural connections that make each dish special.
Other notable food photographers with similar style are:
Andrew Scrivani: Known for his work with The New York Times, Scrivani is a food photographer who also emphasizes storytelling and cultural connections in his images.
Marta Greber: A food photographer and blogger, Greber captures the beauty and stories behind everyday meals and ingredients.
Bea Lubas: Lubas' work showcases the art of food styling and storytelling, creating images that are both visually stunning and deeply meaningful.
Through her captivating images and dedication to telling the stories behind the food we eat, Penny De Los Santos has made a lasting impact on the world of food photography. Her work serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and sharing our culinary traditions and the stories that make each dish truly special.
Katie Quinn Davies
"Food photography is about making people hungry.”
Katie Quinn Davies (website) is an accomplished food photographer and stylist, celebrated for her ability to transform simple dishes into works of art. With a strong background in graphic design, her images exude a captivating visual language that has garnered her a dedicated following and numerous accolades.
Early Life and Career
Katie Quinn Davies was born in Dublin, Ireland, and developed a passion for art and design at an early age. She studied graphic design at the National College of Art and Design in Dublin before embarking on a successful career as a graphic designer. In 2009, after relocating to Sydney, Australia, Katie decided to shift her focus to photography and quickly made a name for herself in the food photography world.
Her unique style caught the attention of prestigious clients, including magazines, cookbook publishers, and advertising agencies, leading to collaborations with renowned chefs and food brands. In 2012, she started her award-winning blog, "What Katie Ate," showcasing her photography and original recipes, further cementing her reputation as a leading food photographer.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Katie Quinn Davies' style is characterized by her moody, atmospheric, and textured images. Her background in graphic design is evident in her strong compositions, attention to detail, and the way she plays with light and shadow to create depth and visual interest.
She often utilizes natural light and prefers to shoot in the late afternoon or early morning when the light is soft and diffused. Katie also experiments with various props, surfaces, and textures to enhance the story behind her images and add layers of visual intrigue. Her expertise in styling further elevates her photography, as she masterfully arranges ingredients and table settings to create a cohesive and captivating scene.
Career Highlights
Some notable highlights of Katie Quinn Davies' career include:
Launching her successful blog, "What Katie Ate," which received the 2011 Best Food Photography Award from Saveur Magazine.
Publishing two best-selling cookbooks: "What Katie Ate: Recipes and Other Bits and Pieces" (2012) and "What Katie Ate at the Weekend" (2015).
Being featured in major publications such as Delicious, Gourmet Traveller, Vogue Living, and Country Style.
Working with esteemed clients like Williams-Sonoma, American Express, and Qantas.
Photography Gear
Katie Quinn Davies relies on a combination of high-quality gear to create her stunning images:
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV – This full-frame DSLR camera offers exceptional image quality and a wide range of capabilities, making it ideal for capturing the intricate details and rich colors of food.
Lenses: Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM and Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM – These lenses provide sharpness and versatility, allowing Katie to capture everything from close-up details to wider compositions.
Tripod: A sturdy tripod is essential for maintaining stability during long shoots and ensuring tack-sharp images.
Reflectors and diffusers: These tools help Katie manipulate natural light to create her signature moody and atmospheric style.
Photography Books
In "What Katie Ate: Recipes and Other Bits and Pieces", Katie Quinn Davies shares her love for food through stunning photography and delicious recipes. The book highlights her unique style, offering valuable insights into creating visually appealing food images that capture the essence of each dish.
"What Katie Ate on the Weekend" delves into Katie Quinn Davies' approach to capturing weekend culinary adventures. The book showcases her exceptional photography skills and provides inspiration for photographers looking to explore the art of capturing casual dining experiences in an evocative and engaging manner.
Quotes
Here are some notable quotes by Katie Quinn Davies that provide insight into her creative process and philosophy:
"Food photography is about making people hungry, so I always try to create images that evoke a sense of wanting to dive into the food."
"I'm drawn to the moodiness and atmosphere that comes with shooting in natural light, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon."
"Styling is an essential part of food photography; it's about creating a story and a mood that complements the dish and draws the viewer in."
"I believe that attention to detail is crucial when it comes to capturing beautiful food images; from the choice of props and surfaces to the arrangement of ingredients."
"Food is an art form, and as a food photographer, it's my job to showcase that art in the most visually appealing way possible."
Legacy and Influence
Katie Quinn Davies has left an indelible mark on the world of food photography, inspiring countless photographers to experiment with mood, atmosphere, and storytelling in their work. Her innovative approach has paved the way for a new generation of food photographers who are redefining the genre.
Other notable food photographers with similar styles are: Ditte Isager, Nicole Franzen, and Beatrice Peltre. These photographers share a common aesthetic, characterized by their use of natural light, moody atmospheres, and meticulous styling. Like Katie Quinn Davies, they have made a significant impact on the food photography world and continue to inspire fellow photographers with their evocative images.
Deb Perelman
“Photograph food the way it looks when it's served, not overly styled or manipulated.”
Deb Perelman (website) is a renowned food photographer, blogger, and cookbook author who has gained widespread recognition for her stunning photography and approachable recipes. Her warm and inviting images, coupled with her ability to make seemingly complicated dishes accessible, have earned her a dedicated following of home cooks and photography enthusiasts alike.
Early Life and Career
Deb Perelman was born and raised in New York City, where she developed a passion for food and cooking from an early age. After completing her education, she pursued a career in the arts and graphic design. In 2006, Perelman started her food blog, Smitten Kitchen, as a way to share her recipes and love for cooking. Over time, her blog gained traction, and her photography skills played a significant role in her success.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Deb Perelman's photographic style is characterized by its authenticity and warmth. She focuses on showcasing the beauty of food in its most natural state, without relying on excessive styling or manipulation. Perelman often shoots in natural light, which lends a softness and depth to her images.
Her approach to food photography is grounded in her love for cooking and sharing recipes. She aims to make her photos as approachable as her dishes, focusing on the deliciousness of the food rather than creating overly stylized or staged scenes.
Career Highlights
Deb Perelman's career took off with the success of her blog, Smitten Kitchen, which has garnered numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Saveur Blog Awards. Her work has been featured in prominent publications like Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and The New York Times.
In 2012, Perelman published her first cookbook, "The Smitten Kitchen Cookbook," which quickly became a bestseller. She followed up with her second book, "Smitten Kitchen Every Day," in 2017, which was also well-received.
Photography Gear
Deb Perelman's photography gear includes:
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV: A versatile full-frame DSLR camera that offers excellent image quality and performance, making it a popular choice among food photographers.
Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens: A fast prime lens that delivers sharp images with beautiful background blur, perfect for capturing the intimate details of food.
Tripod: Perelman often uses a tripod to ensure stability and sharpness in her images, especially when shooting in low light conditions.
Reflectors and diffusers: These essential tools help control and shape the light in her images, creating the soft, natural look that is characteristic of her work.
Photography Books
In "The Smitten Kitchen Cookbook: Recipes and Wisdom from an Obsessive Home Cook", Deb Perelman combines her passion for cooking with her talent for food photography. The book showcases a variety of recipes accompanied by visually stunning images, providing inspiration and insights for photographers looking to capture the essence of home-cooked meals.
"Smitten Kitchen Every Day: Triumphant and Unfussy New Favorites: A Cookbook" highlights Deb Perelman's expertise in creating everyday recipes while capturing them beautifully through her photography. This book serves as a valuable resource for photographers aiming to portray the simplicity and elegance of everyday dishes.
"Smitten Kitchen Keepers: New Classics for Your Forever Files: A Cookbook" presents a collection of timeless recipes, accompanied by Deb Perelman's captivating food photography. The visuals in this book inspire photographers to explore different techniques in capturing the perfect shot of these classic dishes.
"Cookies Are Magic: Classic Cookies, Brownies, Bars, and More" showcases Deb Perelman's ability to create and capture mouth-watering baked goods through her photography. This book offers inspiration and insights for photographers looking to hone their skills in capturing the textures and colors of various sweet treats.
"Hot Air Fryer Low Carb Cookbook: 150 Recipes for Quick Weight Loss Success" features Deb Perelman's expertise in creating healthy, low-carb recipes while showcasing her talent for food photography. This book is a valuable resource for photographers seeking inspiration in capturing delicious yet health-conscious dishes.
Quotes
"Food should be inviting and approachable. My goal is to make people feel like they can recreate these dishes in their own kitchen."
"Photograph food the way it looks when it's served, not overly styled or manipulated. That's the beauty of food."
"Light is everything in food photography. Learn to work with natural light, and you'll see a world of difference in your images."
*"Don't be afraid to get close and show the details. That's where the magic happens in food photography.”
"Cooking and photography are both about sharing stories and emotions. When you can capture that in an image, you've created something truly special."
Legacy and Influence
Deb Perelman has had a significant impact on the world of food photography and blogging. Her emphasis on authenticity and approachability has inspired countless aspiring photographers and home cooks to embrace their own unique style and share their passion for food with others.
Other notable photographers with similar style are: Joanie Simon, Rachel Korinek, and Bea Lubas. These talented photographers also focus on capturing the natural beauty of food and making their images accessible to viewers, highlighting the importance of storytelling and emotion in food photography.
In conclusion, Deb Perelman's work continues to influence the world of food photography, with her warm and authentic images inspiring others to share their love for cooking and photography. As her career continues to flourish, Perelman remains a beacon for those seeking to create beautiful, approachable food photography that resonates with viewers and captures the essence of the culinary experience.
Helene Dujardin
"Never underestimate the importance of styling and composition.”
Helene Dujardin (website) is a French-born food photographer and stylist known for her minimalist and elegant approach to food photography. With her exceptional talent for capturing the essence of food in simple yet striking images, Dujardin has become one of the most sought-after food photographers in the industry. Her distinct style has set her apart from her contemporaries, making her a true inspiration for practicing photographers around the world.
Early Life and Career
Born in France, Helene Dujardin's love for food and photography began at a young age. She studied photography and graphic design, which laid the foundation for her future career in food photography. After moving to the United States, Dujardin began to explore the world of food photography more seriously, starting a blog called "Tartelette," where she shared her stunning images and recipes. The blog quickly gained popularity, and her work caught the attention of clients, leading her to work on various projects, including cookbooks, magazines, and advertising campaigns.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Helene Dujardin's photographic style is characterized by simplicity, elegance, and a focus on natural light. She often uses minimal props and neutral backgrounds, allowing the food to take center stage. Her compositions are carefully crafted, with every element having a purpose and contributing to the overall harmony of the image. Dujardin's skillful use of light creates depth and dimension in her photographs, enhancing the texture and colors of the food.
Career Highlights
Over the course of her career, Helene Dujardin has worked with numerous high-profile clients, including The New York Times, Food & Wine, and Bon Appétit. Her work has been featured in various publications and exhibitions, showcasing her unique approach to food photography. In addition to her commercial work, Dujardin has published a successful cookbook, "Plate to Pixel: Digital Food Photography & Styling," which offers valuable insights and tips for aspiring food photographers.
Photography Gear
Helene Dujardin uses a variety of photography gear to achieve her signature style, including:
Canon EOS 5D Mark III: This full-frame DSLR offers excellent image quality and dynamic range, making it a popular choice among professional photographers. Its impressive performance in low light conditions allows Dujardin to capture stunning images using only natural light.
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM Lens: This macro lens enables Dujardin to capture the intricate details and textures of food, bringing her subjects to life with incredible clarity and depth.
Reflectors and diffusers: These essential tools help Dujardin manipulate and control natural light, creating the perfect lighting conditions for her food photography.
Photography Books
"Basic to Brilliant, Y'all: 150 Refined Southern Recipes and Ways to Dress Them Up for Company [A Cookbook]": In this book Helene Dujardin features captivating food photography alongside delicious Southern recipes. The book provides practicing photographers with insights into capturing the essence of these delectable dishes.
"Deliciously Organic" showcases Helene Dujardin's skill in food photography as she captures the beauty of organic meals prepared with wholesome ingredients. This book offers inspiration for both photographers and food enthusiasts alike.
"Marmalade: Sweet and Savory Spreads for a Sophisticated Taste" is a delightful exploration of different marmalade recipes, accompanied by Helene Dujardin's stunning food photography. The visuals in this book serve as an inspiration for photographers looking to enhance their skills in capturing the textures and colors of various spreads.
In "Tart Love: Sassy, Savory, and Sweet", Helene Dujardin demonstrates her expertise in food photography by presenting an array of mouth-watering tarts. The book is a valuable resource for photographers who want to learn how to capture the intricate details of these exquisite desserts.
"Food Photography Bible" is a comprehensive guide for photographers aiming to improve their food photography skills. Helene Dujardin shares her knowledge, techniques, and experience in this essential resource, offering valuable insights and inspiration for both beginners and seasoned professionals.
Quotes
"Simplicity is often the most powerful way to convey the beauty of food."
"Light is the key ingredient in food photography – it can make or break an image."
"The best food photographs tell a story, evoking memories and emotions."
"Never underestimate the importance of styling and composition – they can transform an ordinary dish into a work of art."
"Trust your instincts and experiment. That's the only way to grow as a photographer."
Legacy and Influence
Helene Dujardin's minimalist and elegant approach to food photography has had a significant impact on the industry. Her work has inspired countless photographers to embrace simplicity and focus on the natural beauty of their subjects. Dujardin's commitment to using natural light has also encouraged many to explore alternative lighting techniques, leading to more diverse and creative food photography.
Helene Dujardin's impact on the world of food photography cannot be understated. Her ability to capture the essence of her subjects in a simple yet striking manner has set a new standard in the industry, inspiring generations of photographers to follow in her footsteps. By celebrating the natural beauty of food and the importance of light, Dujardin's work continues to be a source of inspiration and a testament to the power of simplicity in photography.
David Loftus
"The magic of food photography lies in the ability to make people taste the food with their eyes."
David Loftus (website) is a renowned British food photographer who has been mesmerizing the world with his mouth-watering images for more than two decades. Known for his natural, rustic style and ability to capture the true essence of food, Loftus has been a go-to photographer for many celebrated chefs, restaurants, and food publications.
Early Life and Career
David Loftus was born in 1963 in England. He developed an interest in photography at an early age and pursued it with a passion, earning a degree in photography from the London College of Printing. Loftus began his career in the late 1980s, initially working in fashion photography. However, he quickly found his true calling in food photography, where he could combine his love for food and his extraordinary visual storytelling talent.
Photographic Style and Techniques
Loftus's photographic style is characterized by its simplicity, natural lighting, and an incredible ability to evoke the senses. He prefers using natural light and often shoots his images on location or near a window, harnessing the subtle nuances of sunlight to bring out the textures and colors of the food. By capturing the essence of the dish, Loftus creates a visual experience that transports the viewer to the moment of enjoyment.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, David Loftus has worked with some of the most prestigious names in the culinary world, such as Jamie Oliver, Nigella Lawson, and Heston Blumenthal. He has photographed more than 100 cookbooks, including many of Jamie Oliver's bestsellers, which have sold millions of copies worldwide. Loftus's work has also appeared in numerous international publications, including The New York Times, Vogue, and GQ.
Photography Gear
David Loftus is known for using a range of photography gear, depending on the situation and his creative vision. Some of his preferred equipment includes:
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV: A versatile and reliable camera, the 5D Mark IV offers excellent image quality and performance, making it an ideal choice for food photography.
Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens: This prime lens provides outstanding sharpness and beautiful background blur, enabling Loftus to capture stunning food images with a shallow depth of field.
Tripods and reflectors: Loftus often uses tripods to ensure stability and sharpness in his images. Reflectors help him manipulate and enhance natural light for the perfect shot.
Published Photo Books
In "Diary of a Lone Twin: A Memoir," David Loftus shares his personal journey as he navigates the loss of his twin brother, providing readers with a unique perspective on grief and healing. This heartfelt memoir serves as an inspiring resource for photographers who seek to capture the depth of human emotion in their work.
"Now & Again: Go-To Recipes, Inspired Menus + Endless Ideas for Reinventing Leftovers" showcases David Loftus's expertise as a food photographer. The book offers a treasure trove of recipes, menus, and creative ideas for repurposing leftovers, all accompanied by stunning photography. Aspiring food photographers will find invaluable inspiration and techniques in this beautifully presented cookbook, learning how to make every dish look as delicious as it tastes.
Quotes
"Food is a universal language that can evoke memories, emotions, and a sense of place."
"Capturing the essence of a dish is like painting a portrait – it's all about understanding the subject and finding the right angle and light."
"The magic of food photography lies in the ability to make people taste the food with their eyes."
"A great food photograph should not only be visually appealing but also make the viewer feel hungry and crave the dish."
"In food photography, simplicity is often the key to creating powerful and memorable images."
Legacy and Influence
David Loftus's impact on the world of food photography is undeniable. His natural, rustic style has become synonymous with contemporary food photography, and his work has inspired a generation of photographers to view food as an art form. Loftus has also played a significant role in popularizing cookbooks, helping to transform them into visually stunning works of art that appeal to a wide audience.
Other notable food photographers with similar style are:
Helene Dujardin: Known for her elegant and minimalist approach to food photography, Dujardin captures the beauty of food using natural light and simple compositions.
Matt Armendariz: With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Armendariz's food photography is characterized by its vibrant colors and enticing visuals.
Katie Quinn Davies: An award-winning food photographer, Davies combines her background in graphic design with her love for food to create striking and evocative images.
By capturing the essence of food in his photography, David Loftus has left an indelible mark on the culinary world. His ability to evoke the senses and transport the viewer to the moment of enjoyment has set a new standard in food photography and will continue to inspire future generations of photographers.