Picture-Perfect Dining: Restaurant Photo Etiquette

Taking pictures in a restaurant is normal whether you’re a food blogger or not. And while there are some oversabi restaurants that flash a “no photography” sign with waiters giving you bombastic side eyes when you try to bring out your phone, most restaurants don’t have a problem with sensible photography.

But you know, there are always those people who want to overdo it. They are the ones that will gear up with full photography gear to take pictures in a restaurant like it’s a photoshoot (what my eyes have seen, my mouth can’t tell it all). 

How to take pictures in a restaurant and not get thrown out

Respect the Vibe of the Place

Most restaurants don’t have a hard fast rule on photography because no one wants to be bossy, but they expect you to have some intuition and to read the atmosphere. If it’s a thriving and buzzing social atmosphere you are free to summon your inner TY Bello.
On the other hand, if it’s a cozy, intimate space, snapping away might feel intrusive to other diners. If you must, keep it quick and stealthy. 

Don’t Blind People

We should not have to say this, but please put off your flash. If the place is too dark, chances are that it’s intentional. Don’t let your snapping ruin another guest’s romantic ambiance. If you’re taking pictures for food blogging purposes, you should plan a daytime visit. Not only would you have great lighting, but the restaurant would likely be empty, giving you more freedom to snap away. 

Order Your Food First

While it may be tempting to start takin pictures in restaurants when you walk in, don’t do that. Take your seat and place your order with the waiter. That elevates you from a random walk-in photographer to a dining photographer. 

Also, waiters are less likely to be rude to you after you’ve placed an order, especially if you use that time to charm them into liking you.

Make it Sharp-Sharp Please

Keep your long photo sessions for your best friend’s engagement party. If you’re there to eat, then make your snaps quick. If your pictures turn out blurry, that’s good news. You get to go back there another time! 

Remember That Less is More

If you’re trying to take food shots, then you don’t need to take the entire table. Yes, you’re eating in a fancy restaurant, but your picture needs to tell more than that. A clear photo of your main dish or drink can often say more than trying to capture the whole table. It leaves much to be desired.  

Be Mindful of Sade

Yes, your picture of the restaurant looks great, but if you zoom in to the far left, you’ll see Sade struggling to devour her chicken like a wolf because she too left her etiquette at home. Now Sade is trending online because of your photo. Lesson: be mindful of other Guests 

Tag the Restaurant and Give Credit

Finally, show some love by tagging the restaurant. All you did was eat the food, so pay respect to the people who prepared your meal. It’s a nice way to support their business.
Also, if your picture trends, who knows if they’ll invite you for a free meal!

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