When shooting this pumpkin and red lentil soup, as it was a personal food photography project, I decided to test this subject with different props and backdrops. The goal was to get three different stories out of the same recipe.

I first tested a warm and rustic setting, choosing a warm pink backdrop and terracotta bowls. Then I tested a dark and graphic look to make the orange of the soup pop, with black props and bakdrop. In the end I tested a light and airy shot, using light colored backdrop and props.

As you can see, these setups tell a completely different story.

I also tested few different garnish ideas: pumpkin seeds add crunchiness and visual interest, and suggest the viewer what’s the main ingredient of the soup. On the soup shot with light and airy mood I added a swirl of yogurt and a drizzle of spicy sauce, as well as dehidrated coconut.

What’s your favourite setup?