If you’re a restaurant owner considering brand photography, you’re probably wondering what the process actually looks like. Is it just food photos? Will it feel like a production? Will your staff need to do anything different? The good news is: it’s not nearly as complicated as you might think, and it’s designed to work with the natural rhythm of your restaurant, not against it.
Over the years, I’ve photographed restaurants like Lewes Oyster House and One Coastal, each with their own vibe, pace, and personality. The goal is never to force your brand into a box — it’s to highlight the experience you already offer in a way that connects visually with your guests.
Here’s what you can expect when you book a restaurant brand photography shoot with me.
1. We start with a deep dive into your brand.
Before I ever lift my camera, I want to understand your space, your food, your values, and the atmosphere your guests feel the moment they walk in. We’ll have a pre-shoot planning session where I’ll ask about your story, your signature dishes, and how you want your photos to feel.
When I worked with One Coastal, they emphasized that their space should feel like home. Their food is elegant but approachable. That informed everything about how I composed and lit the photos — relaxed, warm, and full of texture.
2. I’ll create a detailed plan for shoot day.
Restaurant life moves fast, and I respect that. My job is to come in with a clear plan so I’m not slowing down your kitchen or distracting your team. Based on our planning session, I’ll put together a photo shot list, a general timeline, and a moodboard that keeps us aligned.
At Lewes Oyster House, we had a tight window before dinner service, so I mapped out every scene ahead of time — the dining room, signature cocktails, the raw bar, and the team in action. We moved efficiently and still captured images full of life.
3. Shoot day is collaborative, not chaotic.
I’m not here to stage your restaurant into something it’s not. I’m here to capture the heart of what you do, in a way that feels true to your brand. On shoot day, I’ll gently guide where needed (especially if we’re working with talent or staff), but I’m always observing and adjusting to your flow.
Whether we’re photographing your chef plating a dish or your guests enjoying a quiet corner of the bar, my goal is to keep things calm and authentic. Most restaurant owners are surprised by how smooth and natural it feels.
4. You’ll receive a curated gallery, ready for marketing.
Within two to three weeks after your shoot, you’ll receive an edited, curated gallery of high-resolution images you can use across your website, social media, press features, menus, and more. I’ll guide you on best practices for using the images to reinforce your brand online.
The team at One Coastal used their new imagery to refresh their homepage and highlight their seasonal menu on Instagram. It’s amazing what cohesive, story-driven visuals can do — they don’t just show what you serve, they show who you are.
Ready to elevate your restaurant brand?
Whether you’re launching a new concept or simply ready to show off your space in its best light, restaurant brand photography helps you connect with the guests you want to reach. If you’re curious about working together, I’d love to chat and see how I can support your vision.