Food Stylist Secrets: How Much Grocery Do You Need?

"You need how many cases!?"

Don't be alarmed when your stylist asks for what may seem like a ridiculous amount of product.  This may not always be the case, but if the product being shot is fragile, or has ice cream or melted cheese, a few extra would not hurt.  Remember, the photo you are creating will serve your company for a long time - start with the right product and enough of it to get the best results!

8 carts of groceries for a live television segment, don't worry it is not usually so much

It often benefits to get a bit extra product because it can get damaged in shipping, or we need to sort through and find the perfect shape and size of a particular item.  Also keep storage in mind when ordering product. You want to be able to keep it fresh and stored properly for the best results.  Consult with your stylist about ordering product. He or she will be able to help gauge what is an appropriate amount.  If possible it may be beneficial to have the product shipped in component pieces.

Example: Pizza
Purchase blank crusts or dough, then the correct amount and type of sauce, cheese and toppings can be assembled in the studio for the perfect shot!

The amount of product needed can also be dependent on how the photo is going to be set up.  Here are some situations that can affect the amount of product ordered:

* If someone will be eating it
* If a scoop or slice will be taken out
* If the project is more recipe-focused rather than as an individual product


In some of these situations, the stylist will buy for roughly three times the recipe - one set for practice and to learn about how to best handle the food, one for the photographer to get the lighting on set correct for the shot, then one for the final perfect beauty shot.

Again, there are many variables that can factor in with how much product to order.  Consult with your stylist before the shoot to make sure you can get the right foods for the job!

If you are looking for a food stylist, please contact Impressions Food Styling at (612) 636-1994 or visit http://impressionsfoodstyling.com.