581: How to Create Better Recipe Videos on Your Phone with Leslie Osborne

Eat Blog Talk

In episode 581, Leslie Osborne teaches us how to create high-quality recipe videos using a phone, including what settings to use while recording and how to use artificial lighting correctly.

Leslie started her food blog Bessie Bakes in 2015 after going to artisan bread and pastry school in Chicago, IL in 2012. She wanted to have a food-based business but after having her son, she realized that she needed to work from home but still share her recipes and passion for baking. After really struggling with food photography because she couldn't find affordable yet high-quality backdrops, Leslie started learning how to make her own. In 2019 she launched Bessie Bakes Backdrops and began selling her own line of lightweight, cleanable photography backdrops on her own website and Amazon. Along the way, Leslie has personally done all the photography and videography for her products and social media accounts and shares lots of tutorials and behind-the-scenes content on IG and Youtube!

In this episode, you’ll learn about video filming apps for your phone, using diffusers and bounce cards, making food look delicious and many other tips.

Key points discussed:

- Film in 4K 60fps: Filming recipe videos in 4K resolution at 60 frames per second can improve the quality and clarity of the footage.

- Use a video filming app: Using a dedicated video filming app, rather than the default camera, allows for better control over camera settings like white balance and exposure.

- Get close-up shots: Zooming in and positioning the camera close to the food can help make the recipe the star of the video.

- Use food styling techniques: Make your food look extra delicious and textured by adding extra sauce, oil, seasoning, dressing etc.

- Pay attention to lighting: Proper lighting, whether natural or artificial, is crucial for achieving vibrant colors and textures in recipe videos.

- Use diffusers and bounce cards: Using diffusers and bounce cards can help soften and balance the lighting for a more natural look.

- Tripods make filming easier: Different types of tripods, from tabletop to C-stands, offer varying levels of stability and flexibility for phone-based recipe videos.

- Embrace failure and practice: Mastering videography skills takes time and a willingness to experiment and learn from mistakes.

Guest Details

Connect with Leslie Osborne

Website | Instagram