5 Steps To Prepare For Delivery Platform Foods Photoshoot
So your restaurant is looking to start using online ordering services or you already use them but want to up-level your current pages? Whether it is Door Dash, Uber Eats, Grub Hub, Postmates, or Toast having mouth-watering visuals is key!
My first job out of college was running marketing for a famous Burrito Shop/Tequila bar. As many of you have experienced, we adapted our marketing plan because of the pandemic. Online ordering grew and it grew fast! As I grew in my career, I captured marketing assets for various restaurants. Door Dash has hired me to photograph local restaurants for their marketing. I have learned how to create a strategy for these platforms that can set you apart from the competition. These steps with lead you through the process of having a successful food photography photoshoot.
Step 1: Create Your Menu
This seems easy but it’s crucial. Before you hire a photographer, have a great menu that will not change. Get every little thing. Sides, drinks, desserts. People are more likely to purchase extras when they see how delicious they look.
Step 2: Plan Out Your Menu Shoot List
What bundles do you offer? What specials do you have?
For example, you offer pizza by the slice but you also offer a lunch special with a slice, a bread stick and a drink. You will write a list to capture each slice but while the slices still look fresh, you watch to put in a breadstick and soda so you have content to market the lunch special. This list will make it, so you don’t have to do the same thing twice.
Step 3: Determine What Marketing Assets You Need.
Group shoot of food.
Social media.
Google My Business.
Email marketing.
Rewards programs.
Print ads.
Blogs content.
Step 4: Schedule The Photographer
Here are some things to consider when hiring a photographer
Do they have a marketing background?
Can they capture video content you can use for Reels and Tik Tok?
Do you like their style? Look at their portfolio if that’s the look you are going for, you’re set!
Step 5: Set Your Photographer Up for Success
Schedule your shoot at a time that isn’t busy. It is best to shoot while you are close.
Have space near windows available to shoot - photographers will bring the necessary lighting but there is nothing better than natural lighting!
Stay organized. The photographer will be shooting 30+ plates, depending on the restaurant. No one wants to miss dishes. It’s your job to make all the required dishes so make sure you have a list to stay organized, so no one has to come back when you realize you forgot to make something. Printed checklists are great!
If you follow these steps, your photographer will love you! And everyone will be far less stressed on the day of the shoot. This also sets up your kitchen for success. If you are looking to hire a photographer to shoot content for your restaurant, fill out the form below and we can help you determine the best assets for your marketing and walk you through the entire prep process.