Behind the Scenes: A Day in a Professional Food Photography Studio
No two days are ever the same in my photography studio, which is what keeps me excited about the work I do at MisaHungry Media. Some days I’m shooting at a restaurant; other days I’m testing concepts for up-and-coming CPG brands. No matter what, my mission stays the same: help brands tell their story in a way that makes people stop scrolling and start craving.
So—what does a “day in the life” look like here at MisaHungry Media? Let me take you behind the lens.
My Pre-Shoot Prep
Before food ever hits the set, I start with the basics. I learn about the brand, what makes them special, and how they want people to feel when they see the final photos.
My inspiration comes from everywhere: Pinterest, magazines, even architecture or fashion. Sometimes I sketch ideas or use AI mockups to give clients a visual starting point. That way, we’re aligned before a single prop hits the table.
When I worked with Mila’s dumplings, I pulled cozy textures from Japanese home interiors. Suddenly, those dumplings weren’t just food—they felt like an experience. That’s the power of pre-production.
A Day in the Studio
Like a lot of people, I start with green tea or matcha—it sets my creative tone. Shoot days kick off around 8 or 9 a.m., and here’s how it goes:
1. Camera & Lighting Prep
I pick the right lens, test a few shots with stand-ins, and play with lighting until it feels right. My studio stand is my ride-or-die gear—it makes adjusting the camera smooth and saves me from fighting with tripod legs all day.
2. Styling & Shooting
This part is collaborative—I love bouncing ideas off other creatives. We review the shotlist, share moodboards, and finalize details before bringing in the real product.
On bigger shoots like Truff x Starbucks, teamwork is everything. Stylists adjust details, assistants handle props, clients share feedback, and I’m behind the camera making sure it all comes together. One time, someone suggested tilting a bottle to catch the light, and that small change made the hero shot pop.
3. Client Check-ins
Some clients love being hands-on, giving feedback as we go. Others prefer a more hands-off approach, checking in only when necessary. I’m comfortable with both—after all, my role as Creative Partner Guru is to adapt to each brand’s style.
Sometimes clients join me in person to walk through setups. Other times, we connect online. I remember one session when a client wasn't able to join us in the studio; they opted for a virtual photoshoot so they could see the products and arrangement as we were taking the photos. It felt like they were right there in the Seattle studio with us.
Communication is always my top priority. I use Notion for updates so clients stay in the loop. I want everyone to know what’s happening every step of the way.
4. Editing and Polishing
After the last plate is cleared and the lights are off, I head to my computer to start editing. I polish the best shots, adjust colors, and make sure every image fits the brand.
Behind the Fun
Let’s be real: not every moment is picture-perfect.
The trickiest part? Always the first shot. Once that’s set, the rest flows more smoothly.
And then there are the bloopers, like when my stylist, Tyler and I went overboard with a milk splash. Most of it landed on me instead of the backdrop. Lesson learned: apron first, splash second.
Or the food battles, like melting ice cream, wilting greens, and uncooperative drinks. Our trick? Prep everything with stand-ins so when the hero food arrives, it’s fresh and ready.
But it’s in these imperfect moments that creativity really shines.
My Free Time
When I’m not working directly with clients, I focus on continuous learning and experimentation.
Test shoots with other creatives (props, stylists, models—Seattle has so much talent!)
Renting new gear just to play and stretch my skills
Updating my portfolio with fresh work
Reading or taking courses to keep leveling up
Or simply doing nothing—my best ideas often appear in those quiet pauses.
Inside My Photography Studio
Working in a photography studio is equal parts strategy, creativity, and adaptability. Some days it’s a quick 4-hour shoot; other times, it’s a 13-hour grind to get the perfect shot. But the goal never changes: create professional food photography and video that makes people hungry and helps brands grow. And if I end up covered in milk splashes along the way? That’s just part of the fun.
You’ve seen what happens behind the scenes—now it’s your turn to step in front. Start your next project with us.
