Photographing Drinks

When was the last time a photo made you thirsty?

You know the kind I mean, that perfectly chilled glass beaded with condensation, a slice of lime glistening on the rim, or a deep, rich espresso shot that almost makes you smell the aroma through the screen.

That’s the power of great drinks photography. It doesn’t just show the drink, it makes people feel it.

Discover how your drinks photos can communicate the flavour, mood and quality as well as tempt customers and stop the scroll. A delicate balance of lighting, texture and timing, where the tiniest details can make all the difference.

Lighting

Artificial lighting can be very helpful in drinks photography, both in terms of perfecting the direction of your light to illuminate your drink and to enable action shots to be taken at faster shutter speeds.

Your choice of lighting also helps to set the mood. Soft light gives a calming, relaxed feel whilst a harsher light creates drama and excitement through the stark shadows created.

Props

Every glass, napkin, garnish or supporting prop helps tell part of your brand’s story. Take the pale yellow bottled drink above, which would be completely unidentifiable without the surrounding elderflowers and lemon, which immediately make the drink relatable.

Your choice of props can also help set the scene for how this drink is to be enjoyed. Take this mango lassi, firstly styled in an elegant, dark and luxurious setting to be enjoyed at a premium bar or restaurant. The next with more of a fun, coastal theme to be drunk at an exotic beach bar.

Temperature

Look for temperature cues that help your viewers feel the drink. A steaming cup of cocoa has that warming winter feel against a cold refreshing drink filled with ice.

Action

A splash, pour or swirl adds life and energy into a shot. Adding a human touch also helps connect your customer with your brand and team.

Having seen how I designed and planned these delicious taco shoots, I hope you’re feeling inspired to create a culturally authentic scene for your food.

Behind the scenes

There are many tricks of the trade that can be used when photographing drinks, from fake ice and condensation tricks to the perfect (shaving) foam top on your cocktail. You want an irresistible looking drink but just remember that your customers expect to be presented with the same thing when they order, so don’t set the bar unbelievably high!

For your brand

If you serve or sell drinks, your visuals can make all the difference between just another product and the drink everyone craves. Whether it’s your signature chai, craft cocktail, smoothie range, or afternoon tea selection, let your photos tell the full sensory story.

Because when your drinks look that good, customers can almost taste them.