Cocktail Photography 101: From Cameras, Lenses To Tripods, Gathering The Essentials
If you are serious about cocktail photography, having the right camera gear can be the difference between creating an average photograph and a refined one. Let’s look at some of the basic and must-have photography equipment that will help you capture the beauty of your favourite cocktails.
Camera
Although smartphones come equipped with all the essential features to create stunning cocktail photographs, they can be limiting when it comes to offering precise control over features like aperture, shutterspeed and ISO. If you are a food and drink photographer, investing in a mirrorless camera or DSLR will allow you greater control over these features and will help you achieve a professional look. However, if you are just starting out, don’t be discouraged. By using a smartphone, you can practice and learn all the nuances of cocktail photography.
Tripod
A tripod is an invaluable tool for cocktail photography, especially if you have to work with a low-light setup or if you are experimenting with long exposures. By using a tripod, you eliminate any chances of blurry images, and it also allows you to set your camera on a self-timer mode to avoid any shake that can result from pressing the camera’s shutter. Tripods come in various materials and sizes, so choose one that is adjustable so that you can photograph your drink from various angles. Using a tripod is also beneficial in setting up your frame as opposed to the other way around, where you spend time finding the right angle to shoot from.
Lighting Equipment
Good lighting is the foundation of any great photograph, and this includes cocktail photography too. While natural light is ideal for cocktail photography, the chances of working with it may not always pan out. In such situations, consider investing in external lighting equipment which will offer you control over the intensity and direction of light. For instance, a portable LED light or a softbox can help you create soft, diffused lighting, and contribute to enhancing the colours and textures of your drink. You can also look at experimenting with coloured gels to add a different dimension to your drink.
Backdrops
What backdrop you choose will dictate the aesthetic of your photograph. If you are unable to find a good location to shoot at, consider investing in differently textured and coloured canvas or paper backdrops. In addition to this, you can also look at incorporating textured or marbled surfaces.
Colour Correction Cards
External lighting and the use of a variety of vibrant elements in the frame can confuse the camera into producing colours and casts that can make the image look less appealing. To achieve the right colour profile, opt for colour correction cards to ensure that the right hues of your cocktail are represented. By using colour correction cards, you can set the white balance in your camera and shoot colours that are true to life.
Reflectors
Whether you are working with natural or artificial light, using a reflector will help you manipulate your light source and achieve the desired lights and shadows in your photographs. By making use of a reflector, you can soften the shadows and enhance the overall brightness in your images by bouncing the light back onto your subject.
Lens
Since cocktail photography is all about capturing the intricate details of your drink, investing in a good lens is a must. A prime lens with a wide aperture, such as a 50mm f/1.8, is a great choice to have if you want to create a shallow depth of field. Alternatively, you can also look at using a macro lens to capture the extreme close-up looks that detail like the condensation on the glass or the texture of the garnishes.
Finally, to achieve crisp, clear photographs, ensure that your camera and lens are serviced and clean. Have your camera cleaning kit handy and well stocked with lens cleaning solution, a blower brush and microfibre cloths.
