What Equipment Do You Really Need for Restaurant Content Shoots
What I Bring to Content Shoots and What Your Restaurant Actually Needs
One of the questions restaurant owners often ask is what equipment I bring to a content shoot.
The answer is simple. It depends on the shoot.
Every restaurant is different and every brief is different, so I always bring what makes sense for the space, the food and the end goal.
When a Shoot Needs a Bit More Setup
Some shoots do need extra equipment. This is usually for brand campaigns or content that needs a very clean and polished look.
For those shoots I might bring a camera, light reflectors and a clear backdrop so I can control the lighting and keep everything consistent.
Most Restaurant and Café Shoots Are Much Simpler Than You Think
Here is the bit that surprises most people.
The majority of restaurant and café shoots can be done with just three things.
a good iPhone
a ring light
a tripod
That’s it.
Most restaurants already have good natural light, especially near windows. Newer iPhone cameras are incredibly good and with a ring light to soften shadows and a tripod to keep shots steady, you can get really strong content without a complicated setup.
Simple Equipment Does Not Mean low quality Content
Just because the gear is simple does not mean the shoot is rushed or thrown together.
There is still a lot that goes into a good content shoot. Planning shots, understanding your brand, styling dishes, capturing the atmosphere and knowing what will work well on social media.
That is where experience comes in.
The equipment supports the work but it is not what makes the content good.
The Takeaway for Restaurant Owners
You don’t need a full studio or expensive equipment to show your food and space in the best light.
With the right planning and a simple setup, you can create content that feels natural, inviting and professional and most importantly makes people want to book a table.
Sometimes keeping it simple really is the best approach.
