Times Food Photography Contest: 5 versatile props for food photography

Taste the Lens: India on a Plate
Food in India isn’t just about flavor—it’s culture, memory, and emotion on a plate. “Taste the Lens” is your opportunity to celebrate this rich diversity through photography. Whether it’s a steaming plate of momos or the colorful chaos of a chaat stall, your clicks could bring those flavors to life for thousands. And we all know that food photography is all about creating that perfect appeal and for that one needs versatile props, lighting, and the right angle. Take a look at these
5 versatile and effective props for food photography that can elevate your shots:

Textured Backgrounds & Surfaces
Examples: Rustic wooden boards, marble slabs, slate tiles, linen fabric
Purpose: Adds depth and contrast, helping food pop while creating mood (e.g., cozy, elegant, rustic).

Cutlery & Serving Utensils
Examples: Vintage forks, gold spoons, wooden spatulas
Purpose: Adds storytelling elements and scale; suggests action or invites the viewer to “dig in.”

Natural Elements
Examples: Fresh herbs, edible flowers, scattered spices, citrus slices
Purpose: Enhances freshness, adds pops of color and texture, and creates a more dynamic composition.

Ceramic & Artisan Dishware
Examples: Handmade bowls, textured plates, unique mugs
Purpose: Adds character and complements the style of the dish without overpowering it.

Linen Napkins & Cloths
Examples: Wrinkled cotton napkins, neutral-toned fabrics
Purpose: Softens the image, adds movement, and fills empty space with visual interest.

This Month’s Theme – May 2025: Street Food Chronicles
From vada pavs in Mumbai to jhalmuri in Kolkata, street food tells the most authentic culinary stories. This May, we’re spotlighting the sizzle, spice, and soul of India's streets. Think:

Sizzling tavas

Flying parathas

Tangy golgappas

Chilli-smeared kathi rolls

Show us your city’s street food spirit!

Why You Should Participate
- Get featured on Times Food’s Instagram, Facebook & Twitter
- Win exciting e-gift vouchers
- Share your food story with thousands of fellow foodies

Contest Info
Theme: Street Food Chronicles
Duration: May 1 to May 31, 2025
Submission Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM daily
Winner Announcement: June 5, 2025 (4:00 PM)

Prizes:
- E-gift vouchers delivered within 30 working days
- Winners contacted via email & phone
- Address details collected post-selection

How to Enter
Snap a photo of your street food experience
Submit it [ HERE]
Wait & Win! Winners get featured and rewarded

So next time you’re savoring a piping hot dosa or juggling golgappas, don’t just eat—capture the magic. Turn your cravings into clicks and share the story that your plate is telling.

Ready to Taste the Lens?
Join now, click [ HERE] for details.

Want more food fun?
Join our WhatsApp Food Community to explore recipes, stories & more—click [ HERE]!

Images Courtesy: iStock