Wallkill Valley students learn art of food photography

Digital photography students at Wallkill Valley Regional High School were treated to a hands-on learning experience that fused creativity, business and culinary delight Jan. 3.

Dan Larco, owner of Quarry Grill in Franklin, gave a presentation on the art of food photography.

He brought professional-grade equipment, including backdrops, high-quality lighting setups and top-tier cameras, as well as insights on the vital role of food photography in modern marketing.

The students, who had been studying the technical aspects of photography, were able to experiment with lighting and composition, observing how even the smallest changes, such as the angle of the light or the distance from the subject, could drastically alter the photo.

Larco also took time to explain the real-world implications of food photography, pointing out that images of food not only tell a story but also serve as powerful marketing tools on social media.

Images serve as ambassadors for a restaurant’s identity, telling potential customers what to expect, creating an atmosphere and evoking a sensory experience long before the first bite is taken, he said.

“It’s all about making that first impression count. The way we present our food visually can make or break someone’s decision to try it. That’s why having the right photo is crucial, especially when you’re trying to build an online presence.”