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My inspiration was Simi’s steamy pictures. I consulted with a few food photographers, Googled a dozens of articles, tried with artificial and natural light — anything that would help me improve. I even tried the tampon trick: soak a tampon with water and microwave it for 2 to 3 minutes. Nothing worked out.
This is my first steam picture. I am sure you also hate it as much as I do.
One thing is certain: it won’t work without a lot of light. On a snowy weekday in January I tried to shoot a hot cup of tea next to my window. The cup was dark and I did not use a reflector. It did not come out so great but at least the steam showed.
A few days later I redid the shot with more sunlight this time, and loved how they came out.
Then I tried with chicken, cauliflower, soup, etc. Whenever I prepare food I set it aside on a plate and start clicking.
How can you capture steam in food photography?
Fast Shutter speed: Make sure it’s higher than 1/70.
Small Aperture: I keep it between 5 and 9.
Low ISO: Always keep it under 400.
Light: I only use natural light and you will need a lot of it.
Camera Mode: Manual
In addition to the above, you need a dark background. Steam is white so a dark background will make it look more prominent. I always use a tripod to shoot steam. I can’t vouch for not using one but, since the shutter speed will be fast, give it a try.
I use continuous shutter mode to shoot as quickly as possible. Remember, you have to shoot quickly otherwise the food will get cold and you’ll have to re-heat it. That’s fine with tea, but I do not like to re-heat “real” food unnecessarily.
Last but not least, be patient and keep practicing. You’ll eventually get there.
Love your tutorials 🙂
Thank you Anita 🙂
Thanks a lot dear. Will try this soon.
Let me know how it turns out.
Thank you Dolphia, I did try one last week, I didn’t use continuous shutter mode, which I should try
Also I sent you a bunch of instruction in your chat.
Very useful tutorial Dolphia. Thanks for sharing it.
Thank you dear 🙂
Loved this!
Thank you Manasi.
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This is fabulous , I like the very first picture too . Thanks for sharing .
Ahhhh, the day i catch that perfect steam!!! dreamy,dreamy dreamy clicks,thanks for sharing the trick!!!
Mesmerizing photos and thanks so much for sharing your techniques! I am tempted to try… 🙂
Which lens did you use?
Depends – mostly 50mm Macro
Dolphia, for the first time I am reading this post and wondered why the hell I am always late everywhere. I am really inspired by your dedication and awestruck by your talent
Loooove your photos and this article is great but i got a question, its probably too late but let’s give it a try haha!
How did u get a dark background if using back light? Or is it all side light?