Food photography at Burj Al Arab by Gerry O’Leary
Restaurants provide images of breakfast, lunch and dinner, but not all are taking advantage of the opportunities for seasonal advertising.
As the festive season approaches, restaurants everywhere are preparing to showcase their most sumptuous holiday offerings. In Dubai, and across the world, the competition is fierce for restaurants, and seasonal food photography should be one of the tools in the marketing arsenal to draw diners in.
Throughout my award-winning career, I’ve photographed at restaurants such as Toro Toro and Nobu and worked for celebrity chefs such as Giorgio Locatelli, so I understand how adding some seasonal food images can make a restaurant stand out, especially during Eid, Diwali and Christmas in Dubai.
Capturing the spirit of the season
Christmas is a time of warmth, joy, and celebration — a sentiment that should resonate through every visual aspect of a restaurant’s marketing. Seasonal food photography plays a crucial role in embodying these festive feelings. The glistening turkey, golden and perfectly cooked, sits proudly at the centre of the table, its skin crisp and inviting, glistening with herbs and spices. The inviting aroma wafts through the air, and a perfectly captured photograph can almost evoke the scent, transporting viewers to that festive dining experience.
When diners see stunning images of Christmas fare, they aren’t just looking at food; they’re experiencing the glow of the holiday season. Each photograph tells a story, it sparks nostalgia and makes the viewer long for the feeling that accompanies these meals. When it’s prepared by a top chef, they know they will be salivating over each morsel as they sit around the table.
For restaurants, these visuals not only capture the dishes but also the very spirit of Christmas.
Highlighting seasonal ingredients through commercial food photography
Whichever holiday is being celebrated, the key to the best imagery lies in its seasonal ingredients. Think pumpkin soup for Hallowe’en and jewel-coloured root vegetables at Christmas.
Commercial food photography allows restaurants to highlight the freshness and quality of these ingredients, creating a direct connection between the food on the plate and the local farms and markets that provide them.
Imagine a close-up of rich, smooth gravy cascading over fluffy mashed potatoes, showcasing not just the dish but also the high-quality ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Photographs that emphasize these seasonal elements can communicate a commitment to freshness and sustainability —values that resonate deeply with today’s conscientious diners.
Highlighting specific ingredients creates an opportunity to tell a story. Each dish can be accompanied by a narrative about its origin, preparation, and the chef’s inspiration. These stories are particularly compelling during the festive season when people crave connections to their food and the traditions surrounding it.
Food photography boosts seasonal promotions
As restaurants curate special Christmas menus, compelling food photography becomes indispensable for promotions. When announcing a holiday menu, well-executed imagery can grab attention across social media platforms, websites, and newsletters.
For example, imagine a promotional post featuring a beautifully arranged table filled with Christmas delights — a succulent turkey, crispy roast potatoes, and an array of colourful sides, all styled impeccably by the photographer or food stylist. The photograph not only highlights the dishes but also sets the stage for the dining experience, enticing guests to reserve a table.
Effective seasonal food photography can also promote special events like Christmas dinners, brunches, or holiday catering options. Eye-catching images create anticipation and excitement, driving bookings and encouraging guests to share their dining experiences online, further amplifying the restaurant’s reach.
Promoting brand identity
For many restaurants, food photography is more than just a marketing tool; it’s an integral part of their brand identity. Seasonal photography, particularly around holidays such as Eid, allows restaurants to highlight their culinary philosophy and style.
A restaurant known for its modern twist on traditional dishes can use photography to highlight its innovative seasonal offerings. For instance, a Spanish restaurant might showcase their black rice paella, as it is a festive dish for many from the east coast of Spain. The right presentation can create a distinct brand image that stands out in a crowded marketplace.
Consistency in seasonal food photography also reinforces a restaurant’s aesthetic and narrative. Whether it’s a cosy, family-oriented dining experience or an upscale, fine-dining atmosphere, cohesive visual branding during the festive season helps establish recognition and loyalty among diners.
An invitation to experience the season
As hotels gear up for the festive season, investing in high-quality seasonal food photography can significantly impact their marketing efforts and overall success. By emphasizing not just the food, but the joy and spirit of the holiday season, restaurants can create lasting impressions that inspire diners to celebrate with them.
As a Dubai-based food photographer, my images appear in glossy magazines, on billboards and websites. Get in touch if you wish to elevate your restaurant through professional photography.
