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How to Shoot a flatlay on a budget and no props

February 9, 2023

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How to Nail Food Flat-Lay Photography: Budget-Friendly Tips for Stunning Shots

Flat-lay food photography is where it all began for me. Years ago, when I first started sharing my food photography on Instagram, flat lays were my go-to. And even now, they’re still one of my favorite styles to shoot. Today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about creating professional, scroll-stopping flat lays—without needing an expensive setup.


Starting Simple: Flat Lays Without the Fuss

Let me be real: I love a good prop. Pottery, quirky cutlery, vintage glassware—you name it, I’ve collected it. But when I first started my photography journey, I didn’t have a huge budget for all those fancy props. Back then, I was scrolling through Instagram, drooling over stunning shots from other photographers, wondering how I could ever compete.

Then it hit me: I didn’t need a mountain of high-end props to create beautiful images. In fact, some of my favorite photos came from using just one or two key pieces. And guess what? Most of my clients didn’t want overly elaborate setups either.


Why Minimalist Flat Lays Work

The secret to a great flat lay isn’t in how much you use—it’s in what you use. Choosing the right elements can elevate your image without overwhelming it. The wrong plate or cluttered setup can distract from your star (the food!), but a thoughtfully minimal approach can let the dish shine.

So, if you’re on a tight budget or feeling stuck with styling, don’t stress. There are endless ways to create beautiful flat lays with minimal props. Sometimes, less really is more.


My Tips for Show-Stopping Flat Lays

1. Choose an Organic Background

Your background sets the tone, so pick one with subtle, interesting details. I’ve used @capturebylucy for years, and they’re fantastic. If you don’t have a backdrop handy, get creative! A linen scrap, tea towel, or even a wooden cutting board can double as a gorgeous surface.

2. Plan Your Colors

Start with analogous colors (those close together on the color wheel) to create harmony in your shot. Once you’ve mastered that, try adding depth with complementary tones or pops of contrast to make your food stand out.

3. Use Ingredients as Props

Fresh ingredients are affordable, accessible, and endlessly versatile. For example, if you’re shooting fruit, slice it in different ways to add texture and interest. Experiment with what you already have in your kitchen—herbs, spices, or nuts can bring an image to life.

4. Layer Textures

Texture is everything in food styling. Think creamy frosting against a crumbly crust or vibrant herbs over a rustic soup. Play with contrasts to create visual interest and depth.

5. Master the Light

Side lighting is your best friend for flat lays. It creates depth and dimension, making your food look mouthwatering and three-dimensional. Experiment with shadows to give your image a dramatic edge.

6. Shoot from Different Angles

Sometimes, the magic happens when you change your perspective. Don’t stick to just one shot—capture different sections or angles of the same setup. You’ll end up with multiple images from one styling session.

7. Try All-Over Patterns

All-over patterns are a fun way to mix things up. Cover your background with repeating items like doughnuts, cookies, or sliced fruit. It’s an easy way to create bold, eye-catching images that stand out on Instagram.

8. Get Creative with Props

If you do have props, use them in different ways to keep things fresh. Stack plates under your dish to add height, frame your subject with cutlery, or let props peek into the frame to create a sense of invitation.


Why Less Is More

Flat-lay photography doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few thoughtful choices, you can create images that feel polished and professional without overwhelming your budget—or your audience.

So, whether you’re just starting or looking to refresh your style, give these tips a try. I’d love to see what you create! Tag me at @silvia_bifaro so I can cheer you on.

And if you found this guide helpful, share it with your fellow photographers. Let’s inspire each other and grow together!

Stay creative,
Silvia B. xx

4o

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POST: 5 books that changed my life

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I'm Silvia — creating  visual stories so that you can evoke emotion and instantly stop the scroll