Photographing the vibe of a Winery: Moody Lighting and a Delicious Menu

Photographing a winery is more than just snapping pictures of bottles and barrels. It’s about capturing the atmosphere, the story behind the space, and the appeal of the food and drink offered. When tasked with photographing the winery’s spaces alongside new menu items, the challenge was to create images that feel moody yet well lit. This balance brings out the depth and character of the cellar and highlights the textures and colours of the dishes. Here’s how the process unfolded.

This is how the cellar was set up for the shoot.

And with some adjustment to the light and focus on the product we created some moody lighting for the shoot.

We moved upstairs to the dining area and set up the same style of lighting to keep the look of the images cohesive.

Highlighting Menu Items with Depth and Color

The new menu at the winery deserved some thoughtful treatment. Food photography often relies on bright, even lighting to show freshness and all the detail. But here, the goal was to keep the moody aesthetic consistent while making the dishes look inviting and delicious.

Using just one video light, we created strong shadows and deep colours on the plates. This technique brought out the richness of ingredients and added a sense of depth. For example, a close-up of a charcuterie board showed the glossy sheen of the honey and the texture of cheese and nuts, all enhanced by the interplay of light and shadow.

Tips for photographing food with moody lighting:

• Use side and back light to bring out texture and shape.

• Avoid harsh overhead light that flattens the image.

• Watch your shadows and direct them to add drama and focus.

• Choose backgrounds and props that complement the food without overpowering it.

  
  

This style invites viewers to imagine the flavours and aromas, making the food almost tangible.

Combining Space and Menu for a Cohesive Story

The final images combined the moody cellar environment with the new menu items to tell a cohesive story. The lighting style linked the space and food visually, reinforcing the winery’s identity. Visitors can almost feel the cool air of the cellar and taste the flavours on the plate.

This approach also helps the winery stand out in a crowded market. Instead of generic photos, these images convey a unique mood and personality. They invite potential guests to experience more than just wine — they offer a glimpse into a place where craftsmanship and quality come together.

For anyone looking to photograph similar spaces or menus, consider these points:

• Plan lighting carefully to match the mood you want to convey.

• Use shadows and highlights to add depth and interest.

• Think about how space and food images can support each other visually.

• Experiment with angles and close-ups to capture details that tell a story.