Simple Lighting Setups for Tabletop Culinary Photography

Whether you're a food startup developing your first product line or an established brand refreshing your content, great photography begins with great lighting.

As a professional food photographer, I’ve worked with clients ranging from local restaurants to national names like McCormick and &pizza, and one thing remains true: the right light tells the right story.

In this post, I’m breaking down a few of my go-to simple lighting setups for studio product photography—ideal for culinary brands looking to elevate their visual identity without overcomplicating the process.

1. The Window Light Simulation (Soft Side Light)

This is a classic, clean look that works across editorial and advertising shoots.

Setup:
One large softbox (or shoot-through umbrella) at a 45° angle to the food, mimicking natural window light.

Why it works:
Creates soft shadows, dimensional highlights, and a “daylight” feel that’s universally appetizing.

Great for:
Cooked dishes, styled plates, beverages, and anything that benefits from a natural aesthetic.

Pro Tip:
Add a white bounce card opposite the light to soften shadows without killing depth.

2. Moody Top Light (Editorial Flair)

Perfect for brands with a darker, more atmospheric identity.

Setup:
A single overhead softbox or large modifier, directly above or slightly behind the product.

Why it works:
This lighting emphasizes texture and form, ideal for showing off glossy sauces, crispy edges, or delicate toppings.

Great for:
Fine dining dishes, baked goods, and stylized cocktail shots.

Pro Tip:
Use a black bounce (negative fill) on the sides to deepen shadows and add drama.

3. Hard Light Pop (Modern Branding)

Hard light has made a comeback in branding photography, especially for food products with bold packaging.

Setup:
A bare bulb or small reflector light source placed at a sharp angle.

Why it works:
Crisp shadows and bright highlights make products feel contemporary and eye-catching.

Great for:
Packaged goods, canned cocktails, condiments, and anything needing a punchy, graphic look.

Pro Tip:
Play with colored backdrops or shadows to add energy and reinforce brand palettes.

4. Two-Light Balanced Look (Advertising-Ready)

When you need balance and control for a polished, advertising photographer–grade shot.

Setup:
One key light from the side, one soft fill from the opposite side or overhead.

Why it works:
Gives you shape, detail, and even coverage while maintaining depth.

Great for:
Commercial shoots, plated restaurant dishes, and hero product shots.

Pro Tip:
Flag off problem areas with black cards to avoid unwanted reflections on glossy surfaces like glass or sauces.

Why Lighting Matters for Your Brand

Lighting isn’t just a technical choice—it’s a branding tool. Whether you’re a small-batch maker or a hospitality group, a consistent visual language reinforces trust and tells your story more effectively.

A professional lighting setup ensures your product doesn’t just look good—it aligns with your voice and vision.

As a culinary and brand photographer, my goal is always to craft lighting that speaks to your product’s identity. Clean or gritty, bright or brooding—each choice supports your message.

Ready to Elevate Your Visuals?

If you're looking for high-end studio product photography with simple, effective lighting tailored to your brand, let’s connect.

My studio is based in Baltimore, and I shoot for brands both locally and nationally.

View recent work at www.plaidphoto.com or contact me to discuss your next project.