Hello, I'm Rob Cooper, a food photographer based in the vibrant town of Blackpool.
I thought it would be fun to share a typical day in my life, giving you a glimpse into the world behind those mouth-watering food photos you see online.
My day usually starts early with a strong cup of coffee and spending time with my daughter, Isla. Staying organised is key, so I make sure to respond to any client queries and confirm the details of the day’s shoot. I’m typically heading to a local restaurant to photograph new menu items or specials.

I pack my gear – camera, lenses, tripod, and a few essential props/lighting if needed – and head out. Arriving at the restaurant, I take some time to chat with the owner. Understanding their vision is crucial for capturing the right shots. We discuss the dishes, their ingredients, and the overall vibe they want to convey.
Once we’re on the same page, it’s time to set up. Lighting is everything in food photography. I usually prefer natural light, so I find a spot near a window. If the light isn’t quite right, I’ll use a reflector or an additional light source to enhance the setup.
Styling the food is the next step. This part is both an art and a science – arranging elements to make the dish look as appetising as possible without it appearing staged. A sprinkle of herbs here, a drizzle of sauce there, and we’re ready to shoot.
The actual photography can take anywhere from 1 hour up to a few hours (depending on the shoot). I experiment with angles, close-ups, and different compositions to ensure we capture the dish at its best.

Once satisfied, I pack up and head back to my home office.
The day doesn’t end there, though. Post-processing is a critical part of the process. I spend several hours editing the photos, adjusting colours, and ensuring each image tells the story we envisioned.
By the time evening rolls around, I’m ready to relax, maybe jot down some notes for my next blog post or tomorrow's plan.
Being a food photographer is challenging yet incredibly rewarding. I really feel like its the best type of photography to be able to curate every shot and really create art!
Included are a few shots from a recent shoot at Aven Restaurant in Preston, with incredible Chef Oli Martin =]
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