Preparing dishes for photos
What camera and what lighting?   

With plate only set up your shots so you are not messing around when the food is ready.  

Light, camera, and backdrop make a world of difference.  Outdoor light unless you have a professional studio is the best.   

This is just a hack picture and I did not care about the backdrop but this is just a $100 camera and a free editor that only crops and auto contrast.  There is natural light above the sink.  Shoot the picture as fast as possible.  Cut the most delicate stuff last. Have spare garnishes behind to dress up the plate. If it serves with gravy or dressing take some raw shots first.

Your knife skills are very important.  Have a sharp knife and have a plan. 

Have a nice cutting board to get some shots before plating.  Plated is much harder. You cannot serve 8 and get a nice fresh photo plate. In the afternoon with natural light make a single serving.



Outside has more natural light. The fog is steam from the warm salad. You have to let food cool for good shots.