How We Plan Our Step-by-Step Recipe Photoshoots
Every time someone asks how we pull off those clean, consistent, story-driven recipe shoots, I smile, because it looks effortless, but it’s anything but. At The Chelfdom, we treat every photoshoot like a well-choreographed dance: structured, beautiful, and always with a hint of chaos (the good kind).
We don’t just photograph recipes. We we dtrive to do is build experiences, visual stories that feel alive, authentic, and timeless. Here’s how we do it.
1. The Creative Direction
It all starts with the story. Before we touch a camera or preheat an oven, we dive into your brand, its tone, textures, and the emotions we want people to feel when they see your images.
We create a mood board to lock in the look: light or moody, minimalist or rustic, polished or intentionally imperfect. Once we’re aligned, we know exactly what we’re cooking (pun fully intended).
2. The Recipe Breakdown
Next, we study the recipe like a script. We highlight the moments that matter, mixing, folding, drizzling, garnishing, and decide which steps deserve their close-up.
This part is crucial. It’s how we make sure the photos feel natural, not staged, while still telling the full story from start to finish.
3. The Shot List
This is our visual roadmap, where we turn ideas into action.
We plan camera angles, lighting, props, and pacing so we can stay creative within structure. That balance between art and logistics is where the real magic happens.
4. The Prep Day
On prep day, our studio becomes a kind of creative kitchen. Ingredients are measured, surfaces are styled, and light setups are tested.
We iron out all the small details ahead of time so that when the shoot starts, everything flows. It’s calm, focused, and (mostly) flour-dust free.
5. The Shoot Day
Shoot day is pure energy. We move through each step with precision, but we also leave space for spontaneity, the splash of olive oil that catches the light just right, the swirl of steam that makes a shot come alive.
Every image is crafted to feel fresh, real, and on-brand.
6. Post-Production
Once the shooting’s done, we curate and retouch with care. We don’t believe in over-editing; we believe in enhancing what’s already beautiful.
Textures stay true, colors feel alive, and every image is delivered ready for print, web, or social, polished but still human.
Why It Works
Our process works because it’s built on experience, not guesswork. We know when to follow structure and when to improvise. Every shoot is personal, every detail intentional.
At The Chelfdom, we believe that beauty will save the world, and that starts with creating visuals that make people stop, feel, and connect.
Ready to bring your recipes to life?
If you’re building a cookbook, launching a brand, or reimagining your visual story, we’ll help you create timeless, meaningful content that feels like you.
