One of the highlights of my Sunday is reading Jay Rayner’s restaurant review in The Observer. I have to say that the photography that illustrates the articles isn’t always fantastic, but that’s not what I’m interested in. In fact, I barely look at it. But Sunday 6 November’s review of Jaya in Llandudno, the photography generated quite a few reader comments. You see, the restaurant was outstanding, but because most of the food was brown, the photos didn’t do it any favours what so ever.

Brown food is notoriously difficult to photograph. It’s dull and comes across as unappetising. Consequently, many people recommend avoiding taking pictures of it at all. But, brown food is a reality and that means there will need to be photos of it. The good news is that all is not lost. It can be done, and done well.

The secret to photographing brown foods is very much in the styling. Yes, there are some photographic tips to be implemented, too, but before you get to your light and your lenses, it’s all about how the food is presented.

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