Work
About
Contact

Food Styling: The Art of Preparing Food for the Camera (book review)

There is much more to food aesthetics than merely placing ingredients on a plate. In her book Food Styling: The Art of Preparing Food for the Camera, Delores Custer—who has been creating food magic for over 30 years—reveals the level of thought and creativity required to combine ripe ingredients, balanced compositions, contrasting colors, just-right lighting, and an inventive approach. This book lifts the curtain on every aspect of the profession, illustrating the process from the first client call to final production.

It serves as both an insightful handbook and a reality check for anyone curious about what really happens behind the scenes of food styling. From describing day-to-day tasks and challenges, to highlighting the nuance of client communication, Custer’s guide covers the good, the bad, and the delicious.

Top 5 challenges and the solutions the expert provides

  1. Creating media-worthy food “chef-d’oeuvres”
    The author shares the low-down on the critical milestones for producing vibrant, eye-catching images that make viewers crave a bite. From concept to execution, discover how to design an exceptional, mouthwatering shot.

  2. Staying motivated and inspired
    Custer includes over 300 full-color photos that illustrate sophisticated design and new possibilities. Readers can use these visuals, plus her expert tips, to stay inspired and generate fresh, creative concepts that truly pop.

  3. Keeping up with ever-changing “food styling fashion”
    With a review of trends spanning 60 years, the author provides historical context while teaching you how to track new directions in the industry and craft your own unique styles. Learn to create meals that look flawless in photos—no matter your personal aesthetic.

  4. Balancing creativity with management responsibilities
    Food styling isn’t all artistry. Discover the logistical obstacles food stylists face, from coordinating with team members to securing the right supplies. Custer’s savvy advice keeps you organized and stress-free, while the built-in glossary clarifies critical industry terminology.

  5. Leveraging the best tools, resources, and connections
    From recommended suppliers and websites for inspiration to insider knowledge about props and cookware, Food Styling doubles as a catalog of go-to resources. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned pro, you’ll find your toolkit expanded with every read.

Why this book belongs on your shelf

No matter how long you’ve been honing your food styling and photography skills, new trends and techniques arise constantly. Delores Custer’s manual is a one-stop resource that you can consult time and again, ensuring you remain on the cutting edge of the field.

It seamlessly merges expert knowledge with systematic organization of essential information and tools, making it ideal for:

If you’re ready to take your food styling game to the next level or simply want a deeper understanding of the craft, Food Styling: The Art of Preparing Food for the Camera will become your trusted ally for years to come.