Food styling is an art form that uses creative composition to present food in a visually appealing way. It is a unique type of photography that involves crafting and arranging food so that it looks its best. With all the different types of food styling, the possibilities for presentation are endless. Here are some of the most common food styling styles.

Fresh and Natural Food Styling

In this style, food is presented in its most natural state. This means that it is not heavily processed, and instead looks like it is fresh from the garden or farm. Fresh and natural food styling seeks to emphasize the food’s natural beauty and avoid the use of unnecessary props or styling techniques that detract from the food’s true form. I like to use this type of food styling when creating family friendly dishes that I want to appear accessible and inviting, think 1 pot or pan dishes, sandwiches and finger or comfort foods.

Rustic Food Styling

Rustic food styling embraces the imperfect nature of some food. Vegetables and fruits, for example, may be slightly bruised but still completely edible and delectable. Food stylists consider the texture, colors, and imperfections when crafting a rustic plate. An example may be a bowl of mushroom soup or a loaf of crusty bread.

Chic and Modern Food Styling

When styling food in a chic and modern fashion, food stylists will combine sophisticated ingredients and modern presentation techniques to create a plate that’s absolutely stunning. This style emphasizes colors and bold flavors that spark curiosity and appetite. For example, if I am working with a luxury client like a high end seafood company or liquor brand, I seek a modern, clean and sophisticated aesthetic, integrating unique ingredients such as edible flowers, flaky salt, microgreens and rainbow produce.

Simple and Minimalist Food Styling

Simple and minimalist styling focuses on the food itself and does away with overly complicated plating techniques. By reducing the number of ingredients, food stylists are able to accentuate the food’s natural beauty. I use this type of styling a lot for commercial food photography and baked goods.

Traditional Food Styling

For this style, traditional recipes and classic presentations are used. This style is all about finding the perfect balance between old and new. The traditional approach to food styling embraces both the nostalgia of home cooking, as well as modern techniques to better portray the food. I love using this styling method for making rustic and comfort based dishes, like soups, pastas and pie.

Artistic Food Styling

In this style, food is arranged in a creative and artistic manner. Aside from making the food look delicious, food stylists also strive to make it look visually arresting. Food is often combined with decorative elements or placed against a backdrop of vibrant colors to capture the viewers’ attention. I don’t often have many clients request this food styling style, however, as an artist it's always fun to experiment and grow professionally by playing with this style.

Food styling and food photography go hand and hand. My food styling skills have allowed me to work with some of my favorite brands. It goes without saying that it's a skill that continues to mature and develop. By playing with different styling styles and techniques, food can be presented in a myriad of ways that will surely please your ideal brands and their audience. Whatever style you use, keep in mind that it doesn’t matter that your broccoli dish is tasty - it matters that it looks tasty too!