Whenever I’m in a new city, I love to find a great cafe to get a cup of coffee. To discover the best place to go to get my drink of choice (an iced latte!), I look at the photos Local Guides like you share on Google Maps.
So, next time you’re visiting your favorite coffee shop, take some time to help others like me and brush up on your photography skills. (You may even learn more about coffee in the process!)
Here are some of my best photo tips for taking great photos to help guide coffee lovers.
Capture the counter and the coffee-making process
Getting an overall shot of the counter area can help others learn what equipment the cafe has. You may even want to get a closeup shot of the barista making a latte art or pour over coffee. Before you do, make sure to ask for permission first.
Shoot near natural light
One of my top tips is to shoot using natural light, especially when photographing food. Soft, natural light will beautifully illuminate the scene while using a flash can create harsh shadows and make food look unappetizing. In a coffee shop, look for a window to place your food and drink next to. Then, you’re ready to snap a few great pics!
Keep it simple and try different angles
Are there some dishes or napkins on the table where you’re planning to take a photo of your coffee? If they’re distracting from your main focus, remove them from your camera frame. Then, try different angles until you get the perfect shot. If your barista created an eye-catching design, try capturing the coffee from above to show it. You can also try shooting the coffee cup from the side along with any pastries to show a bit more depth.
Capture the seating and the signage
Another helpful tip is to photograph what the seating area is like. For people who like to take their time enjoying their coffee, having comfortable seating is important. It’s also helpful to capture the signage and menu on a wall so people know what to expect when they come to the cafe.
Have you tried putting these photo tips into practice? Share your pics with us in the comments below and on Google Maps. We’d love to see them!