Flan is a classic Cuban dessert, and Vicky Bakery is a Miami institution that has been serving up delicious flan for over 50 years. As a photographer based in Miami, I recently had the opportunity to work with this beloved local institution to capture the beauty and deliciousness of their flan, and I want to share some of the techniques and tips that I used to create mouthwatering images that will make your audience crave a bite.
First, I recommend using a big umbrella and diffuser to create a broad, even light source that mimics the soft, diffused light of a cloudy day. This will help to avoid harsh shadows and create a more natural and flattering effect.
In addition to your main light source, you can also use reflectors or bounce cards to fill in shadows and add dimension to the image. These can be made from simple materials like white foam board or silver foil, and can be placed strategically to direct light back onto the subject.
When it comes to composition, a minimalist approach can be just as effective as a more elaborate one. By keeping the focus on the flan itself and avoiding distracting elements in the background or foreground, you can create a clean and simple image that highlights the beauty and deliciousness of the dessert.
Timing is everything when it comes to capturing dripping caramel. You'll want to time your shots so that the caramel is dripping in a visually appealing way, rather than just looking messy or awkward. It can take some practice to get the timing right, so don't be afraid to take multiple shots and experiment with different angles and setups.
Pay attention to the placement and direction of the caramel drip. Depending on the angle of your shot and the placement of the spoon, the caramel drip may fall in different directions. Experiment with different spoon placements and angles to find the most visually appealing drip pattern.
Use a shallow depth of field to create a blurred background that helps the caramel drip stand out. This will also help to draw the viewer's eye to the main subject of the photo - the delicious Vicky Bakery flan!
Don't be afraid to get in close and capture the details of the caramel drip. Macro photography can be a great way to showcase the intricate details of food, and can add a lot of visual interest to your images.
Finally, in post-processing, you can use editing software to adjust the brightness, contrast, and color balance of the images to create a consistent and cohesive look. Pay attention to the Vicky Bakery brand and style, and aim to create images that reflect their aesthetic and values.
With these photography techniques and tips, you can capture stunning images of the Vicky Bakery flan using artificial light and a minimalist approach. Whether you're a beginner photographer or an experienced pro, there's always something new to learn about capturing the beauty and deliciousness of food through the lens.