Do I need a tethered shooting setup?

For commercial food work, yes. Tethering to a large calibrated monitor lets you, the food stylist, and the art director evaluate each shot in real-time.

What about overhead shooting rigs?

A sturdy C-stand with an arm or a dedicated overhead rig is essential for flat-lay food photography. Budget $200-500 for a reliable setup that will not drop your camera.

Best Setup for Food Photographers 2026