Snapshot Spotlight – Paula from bell’alimento

September 2, 2009

Name: Paula Jones

Blog Name: bell’alimento (Italian for beautiful food)

Tell us how you started getting interested in food photography: I’ve always been fascinated with photography but did not get into food photography until I started my food blog earlier this year. After being “coerced” by a couple of friends into starting bell’alimento, it was sink or swim, and I’m seriously not one to go down without a fight.

What photography and editing equipment do you use? My camera of choice is my Canon EOS Rebel XS – mostly with my 55m lens. Our post processing is done with Adobe Photoshop Elements.

Please share with us one of your first food photographs.

Asparagus alla Paper Bag

Asparagus alla Paper Bag

What has been your absolute favorite food photograph you have taken (include link to blog post if it relates)? Why is this photo your favorite?
Oooo, that’s like asking me to choose which one of my children I like best. With every post I hope I’m learning more and expanding my food photography horizons. To be honest, I’m never completely satisfied with any of the photos I take, which keeps me on my toes and fuels my fire to continually improve.
Here are some of my current favorites:

Pineapple Fusion Scallops

Pineapple Fusion Scallops

Baby Banana Bread Bundts

Baby Banana Bread Bundts

What is your typical setup for your food photography? When possible I shoot outside on my deck. If I shoot inside & the light coming through the windows isn’t optimal I use a lightbox with 2 lights & also a foam board to bounce the light.

Share one or two tips that you think might be helpful to food bloggers when photographing food. I learned early on to never, ever, ever use a flash. Natural sunlight is best so use that when possible. Have all of your plating items ready to go when your food is ready. Also, never underestimate the power of post processing! It can turn a good photo into a great photo.

Thank you, Paula, for a great Snapshot Spotlight. If you are interested in being featured in an upcoming snapshot spotlight, please email us at admin <at> culinarysnapshot.com. We would love to have your contribution!

You can view the tips and tricks from our past Snapshot Spotlights:


{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }

1 Amy J September 2, 2009 at 4:36 pm

It’s so yummy looking. That’s the important thing about photographing food, if the color is off or something it can make a great, tasty dish look yuck. These look yum. I’m hungry now.
Amy J´s last blog ..A little nest giveaway. My ComLuv Profile

2 Katie @ goodLife {eats} September 2, 2009 at 7:58 pm

Admitting I’ve never even had scallops, but that picture makes me want them. YUM!
Katie @ goodLife {eats}´s last blog ..Garden Panzanella My ComLuv Profile

3 Calamity Anne September 2, 2009 at 9:45 pm

I’m fairly new with photographing food…and am in total agreement with you on no flash. Also, I’m pleased as punch that you said you use the Canon EOS Rebel…I’ve been in the market for a new camera and decided on the same one…except I have to wait till Christmas! By the way…beautiful blog with incredible recipes!
Calamity Anne´s last blog ..My Middle Name Ain’t Grace!!! My ComLuv Profile

4 ATigerInTheKitchen December 25, 2009 at 10:49 am

I love her site and photos! So glad you featured her… very nice post.
ATigerInTheKitchen´s last blog ..Panettone: The Seven-Day Bread My ComLuv Profile

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