Hello Local Guides! I am “JAPAN Street Lab” from Japan.
When you take photos of restaurants, what do you focus on? I prioritize “Facts” over “Art”. My goal is to ensure that when a user visits the place, they feel relieved that “it looks exactly like the photo.”
To achieve this, I follow a “3-Photo Rule” to ensure users have all the information they need.
1. Exterior:
For Discovery and Confirmation First, the face of the shop. Even with GPS, it can be hard to find the entrance. I capture the sign, the curtains (noren), and the overall atmosphere of the building. This assures the user, “Yes, this is the right place.”
2. Interior:
For Comfort Next, inside the shop. Street View cannot see inside. This is where Local Guides shine. “Is there counter seating (good for solo diners)?” “Is the aisle wide enough (for strollers)?” This information is just as important as the taste. I try to capture the spaciousness when there are fewer customers.
3. Food:
Volume and Texture Finally, the food itself. I recommend posting two types of photos here. First, the “Whole View” to show the volume. Users need to know, “Is this enough for lunch?”
Second, the “Close-up” using proper lighting. This clarifies the “Fact of Texture.” For example, with Tempura, the crispiness of the batter cannot be conveyed in dark photos. By using lighting, users can simulate exactly what they will get. ＝
Summary For me, being a Local Guide is about filling the “Last One Mile” of information that Street View cannot reach. * Exterior identifies the location. * Interior removes anxiety. * Food photos turn expectation into conviction. Only when these three are aligned can a user visit a shop with peace of mind. I hope this helps your photography style!
The three essential angles for restaurants are really helpful, thanks for sharing these practical insights! 
, thanks 
