The Gift Every Food Photographer Wants

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The gift every food photographer wants is simple.

It’s that unique prop that only a handful of others have. 

I know you. You’re that type of person who is so thoughtful, always puts others first and loves to give gifts. You’re interested in the people around you and supporting their hobbies and talents. You know a couple of foodies/ food photographers/ Instagrammers, cause let’s face it – we are everywhere. You’re the kind of friend I’d like to have, but let’s be honest here: that food styling ‘prop’ you just found, the one you gushed over and went ‘oh man, this would look soooooooo perfect in their pics’ isn’t as amazing as you think and the receiver wouldn’t be caught dead using it in their pics. I know, I know. It’s the thought that counts, but you’re better than that.

You could find that ultimate food photography prop that will have your friend talking for months and be the envy of Pinterest.

The secret lies with locally and handmade products. The kind that you laugh at when you read the price tag.

Recently my parents brought me back this handmade garlic board (above) from their 5 week road trip around Eastern Canada.  Locally made by Daryl Wasson in Halifax Nova Scotia, it features eight different types of wood (Maple, Birch, Walnut, Ayp, Oak, Ash, Mahogany, Purple Heart and Padouk) and is unlike anything I’ve seen before. Now that is a gift a food photographer wants!

So when you’re on your next adventure, whether it be 2 hours from your home, or the other side of the globe, find those local handmade tablewares and ceramics you can only source locally and in small quantities.

My Favourite Melbourne Food Photography Props.

Melbourne is a fantastic example for what I mean by handmade tablewares and ceramics. There is an abundance of talents creatives in this city producing some truly unique props that add volumes to an image.

Here is some local artists wares that do just that.