Times Food Photography Contest: 4 lighting techniques to keep in mind for food photography

Taste the Lens: India on a PlateFood in India isn’t just about flavor—it’s culture, memory, and emotion on a plate. “Taste the Lens” is your opportunity to celebrate this rich diversity through photography. Whether it’s a steaming plate of momos or the colorful chaos of a chaat stall, your clicks could bring those flavors to life for thousands.And when it comes tofood photography, lighting plays a key role in defining the texture and colour of the food. Here are 4 essential lighting techniques to keep in mind for stunning food photography.Use Natural Light Whenever PossibleWhy: Natural light gives food a fresh, realistic, and appetizing look.How: Shoot near a window with diffused sunlight. Avoid direct harsh rays—use a sheer curtain or diffuser to soften shadows.Side Lighting for Texture & DepthWhy: Side lighting enhances the texture of food—ideal for dishes like pasta, salads, or baked goods.How: Position your main light source to the side of the food, at roughly a 90-degree angle.Backlighting for Mood & DramaWhy: Great for creating a dramatic, high-end look—perfect for drinks, soups, or glossy foods.How: Place the light source behind the food, slightly above. This highlights steam, transparency, and shine.Controlled Artificial LightingWhy: Essential when natural light isn’t available (e.g., in restaurants, at night, or for consistency).How: Use softboxes, LED panels, or strobes with diffusers. Adjust color temperature to match daylight for natural-looking results.This Month’s Theme – May 2025: Street Food ChroniclesFrom vada pavs in Mumbai to jhalmuri in Kolkata, street food tells the most authentic culinary stories. This May, we’re spotlighting the sizzle, spice, and soul of India's streets. Think:Sizzling tavasFlying parathasTangy golgappasChilli-smeared kathi rollsShow us your city’s street food spirit!Why You Should Participate- Get featured on Times Food’s Instagram, Facebook & Twitter- Win exciting e-gift vouchers- Share your food story with thousands of fellow foodiesContest InfoTheme: Street Food ChroniclesDuration: May 1 to May 31, 2025Submission Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM dailyWinner Announcement: June 5, 2025 (4:00 PM)Prizes:- E-gift vouchers delivered within 30 working days- Winners contacted via email & phone- Address details collected post-selectionHow to EnterSnap a photo of your street food experienceSubmit it [HERE]Wait & Win! Winners get featured and rewardedSo next time you’re savoring a piping hot dosa or juggling golgappas, don’t just eat—capture the magic. Turn your cravings into clicks and share the story that your plate is telling.Ready to Taste the Lens?Join now, click [HERE] for details.Want more food fun?Join our WhatsApp Food Community to explore recipes, stories & more—click [HERE]!Images Courtesy: iStock