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5 top tips to take amazing food photos for Instagram

Up your Insta-game with these food styling secrets

food photography
Chloe Best
Lifestyle Features Editor
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Scrolling through Instagram it's difficult not to feel inspired (and hungry) by the huge array of tempting food photos on your newsfeed. And with the hashtag #foodporn being used over 126 million times, now's the time to get involved and master the art of food photography for yourself. We spoke to Ali Alt, the food lover and home chef behind Baliboosta, whose gorgeous, vibrant food images have earned her 65,000 Instagram followers and counting. Here are Ali's top five tips for Insta-worthy food pics...

1) Focus on the Food:

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"It's easy to get distracted by a gorgeous table layout but what you're focusing on is the tasty grub in front of you. This tip sounds basic, but when capturing your food - you need to focus on the food at hand. Avoid shaky hands and focus on the centre of the dish, or tempting details, like a shot of drizzled maple syrup, for added drama."

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2) Compose Your Shot:

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"Firstly, it's important to ensure the image is framed correctly and looks aesthetically pleasing. Secondly, it's time to channel your inner food stylist. Don't be afraid to let the food do its thing - let the ice cream drip or cheese ooze, and try experimenting with utensil placement."

3) Embrace Natural Light:

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"There's nothing like the flash of an iPhone to ruin an amazing dish; when taking snaps of your food embrace natural light for all of its glory. Don't be afraid to take your masterpiece to the nearest window for the most light."

4) Use a Buddy:

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"If you're out with friends and tempted to capture the moment, be sure to get your friends involved. As mentioned, the flash on your phone can ruin a shot, but if you get your friends to turn on their lights and point towards the dish, you'll be able to capture the shot without a flash in sight. Just be considerate to your fellow diners."

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5) Get Creative:

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"Don't be afraid to get creative when taking photos of your food! Stand up and take an overhead shot of your food, or try moving the plate around to get the best view of your tasty treat."