Why I Quit Food Photography (And What I Learned)

I recently launched my YouTube channel to share insights from my journey as a commercial photographer here in Portland. My first video tells my story of how I transitioned from full-time food photography to specializing in headshots, product, and branding photography. This career pivot taught me more about running a photography business than any course ever could.

If you've ever been curious about what commercial food photography is really like, or if you're considering a career change in photography, this video covers the reality behind the scenes.

My Journey From Food Photography to Freelancer

After four years of shooting commercial food photography for a tech startup (and then getting laid off), I made the decision to start my own business and pivot to headshots, product, and branding photography. This became a learning experience that shaped how I approach every commercial shoot today.

The transition wasn't just about changing subject matter. It was about discovering what type of photography work truly lit a fire inside me and understanding the business side of commercial photography in a way that online learning never could have taught me.

What Food Photography Taught Me

Technical Understanding

Food photography doesn't forgive poor lighting or inaccurate colors. When you're creating images that need to elicit a physical reaction in viewers, every technical detail counts. This techincal undertanding has improved every type of photography I do now.

Teamwork on a Photoshoot

Working with stylists, recipe developers, and a marketing team taught me how to direct shoots and work effectively with clients. These soft skills often determine whether clients want to work with you again more than your technical abilities alone. After all, who wants to work with a jerk?

Understanding a Client's Business Needs

Food photography wasn't just about making things look pretty. It was about creating images that drive sales. That business-focused mindset now applies to every photography project I do.

When to Move On

I'm very grateful for my time in food photography, but I also don't regret moving on when I realized other genres of photography were what truly excited me.

What's Next for my YouTube Channel?

I'm planning to share more insights about the business and technical sides of commercial photography on my YouTube channel. Topics coming up include headshot lighting techniques, client communication strategies, and the practical realities of running a freelance photography business.

If you're a photographer considering commercial work or a business owner curious about what goes into professional photography, I hope these honest perspectives from my journey are helpful.

You can watch the full video above, and if you find this content valuable, I'd appreciate you subscribing to my YouTube channel for more insights from my journey.

-Chris