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Top 10 Lists of Canadian Food Photographers and Prop Stylists

Picture of Charlotte Leung

Charlotte Leung

By “Charlotte Leung, Contributor” on April 25, 2023

www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-leung-pr

youtube.com/@lctxcharlotte

Canada is home to a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, and the art of food and prop photography plays a significant role in capturing and showcasing the essence of its gastronomic delights. The following list presents ten exceptional Canadian food and prop photographers who have made a lasting impact in the industry. With their keen eye for detail, creative vision, and skillful execution, these photographers bring to life the colours, textures, and flavours of the dishes they capture. From established professionals to emerging talents, this compilation celebrates the creativity and dedication that these photographers bring to the table, elevating the art of food and prop photography across the Canadian culinary landscape.

1. Ryan Szulc @ryan_szulc

https://www.instagram.com/ryan_szulc/

Photographer & Director
Inquiries: [email protected]  647-347-7121

https://www.ryanszulc.ca/

Address: 15 Adrian Avenue, Suite 162, Toronto, Ontario Canada M6N 5G4

Ryan Szulc is a Toronto-based commercial and editorial photographer, specializing in food, interiors, and travel photography. With an exceptional eye for detail and a penchant for capturing the essence of his subjects, Ryan has worked with renowned clients such as McDonald’s, Nestle, Loblaws, and Unilever. His photography has also been featured in various publications, including Food & Drink, Bon Appétit, and Canadian Living.

 

Specializing in food and its surrounding culture, Ryan has shot over 50 cookbooks many of which have gone on to win numerous awards. His work has been featured prominently in the Communication Arts and Applied Arts photography annuals over the past 10 years. Based in Toronto, Ryan is married to a longtime collaborator, and prop stylist Madeleine Johari. They have two little budding photographers, Willow and Ivy. When not in the studio, Ryan can be found wandering about shooting his work which you can see here.

Photography style

Ryan Szulc combines natural light with well-composed, vibrant, and clean images. His skill in creating beautiful and delicious food shots makes him a sought-after photographer in the industry. By collaborating with talented food stylists, Ryan ensures that each photograph tells a compelling story and evokes an emotional connection with the viewer.

Services

Ryan Szulc Photography provides flexible creative services for a diverse professional community. Specializing in commercial photography and video with a strong focus on food and food culture, the studio offers production services ranging from large-scale motion projects and still photography to social media content.

 

Leveraging a talented team of post-production assistants, stylists, producers, and studio staff, in-studio or on-location, Ryan consistently meets the unique needs of his clients by producing powerful content and rich visuals.

Clients

Freshii, McDonald’s, HarperCollins, Penguin, Tim Horton’s, EnRoute Magazine, New York Magazine, Boston Pizza, Campbell’s, Kraft, Loblaw’s, The Food Network, The Drake, Chatelaine, Canadian Living, The Walrus, Whitecap Books, Longo’s, McCain, Toronto Life, Best Health, Schneider’s, Mott’s, Kellogg’s, Quaker Oats and Canadian Tire

Awards & Recognition

Applied Arts Photography Award Winner: 2003, 2008-2018 Communication Arts Photography Award Winner: 2015-2017

2. The Food Group @thefoodgroupto

https://www.instagram.com/thefoodgroupto/

Digital creator
http://thefoodgroup.ca/

Contact: +1 (647) 347-3680

Address: 173 McCormack ST., UNIT 9, TORONTO, ON M6N 1X8
Email: [email protected]

The Food Group is a full-service creative agency specializing in food and beverage marketing. Founded in 1979, the agency is based in New York City, with additional offices in Canada and Europe. They work with diverse clients in the food and beverage industry, offering services such as brand strategy, creative development, social media management, content creation and public relations.
The Food Group’s team of experts includes culinary professionals, food stylists, photographers, videographers, writers, and designers who work together to create compelling content and campaigns. They aim to help brands communicate their unique stories and create memorable customer experiences. By understanding current food trends and consumer preferences, The Food Group helps clients in the food and beverage sector create successful marketing campaigns that resonate with their target audience. Their work has earned them a reputation for excellence and innovation in the industry.

Services

They offer turn-key service and can assist clients with everything from recipe development right through to perfecting and delivering those incredible final images. With every plate of food, every image, and every project they undertake, their goal is always to make it look so good that people want to start eating immediately. Whether perfectly capturing a simple packaging shot or producing your content end to end, their team of photographers, videographers and stylists know how to make magic happen! With decades of experience in the industry, they are deftly able to transform a table into a story, and dinner into a design worthy of a standing ovation. Their comprehensive studios located in Toronto’s Stockyard District provide the perfect venue for any stills session, motion shoot or food photography event.
They offer their own studio to rent with 10 ft wide sliding barn doors of interior style. It is available to host social events, and orchestrate fashion shoots and is an ideal setup for anything and everything related to food photography.

Packages

Seamlessly combining our individual services, these packages are crafted to simplify your creative projects and give your budget some breathing room.

3. Dylan Swart @dylan_swart

https://www.instagram.com/dylan_swart/

Commercial Food & Beverage Photographer
https://www.dylanswart.com/
https://www.dylanswart.com/bookings

Dylan Swart is a talented commercial food and beverage photographer and stylist based in Edmonton, Canada. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for food and culinary arts, Dylan’s work captures the essence and beauty of his subjects, creating visually appealing and mouth-watering images. His photography style combines natural light with well-composed and vibrant shots, showcasing the textures and colours of the dishes he photographs.

In addition to his work in food photography, Dylan Swart also has experience in lifestyle, portrait, and product photography. His diverse skillset and creative approach have led him to collaborate with various clients in the food and hospitality industry, from restaurants and cafes to food brands and publications. His day-to-day includes working with talented creative professionals, premium brands and celebrated advertising agencies to develop beautiful food imagery.

Dylan’s dedication to creating stunning visual content and his ability to tell compelling stories through his images have made him a sought-after professional in the food photography and styling world. His style of work centers on creating bold visuals by combining beautiful food and interesting light. He has been fascinated by light and the way it plays off subjects in everyday life – so photography was a medium I felt naturally drawn to. His interest in food was sparked while travelling and exploring different cultures, but it was only a few years later while studying towards my degree in photography that it all really fell into place. He realized that I could combine my love of food and the technical aspect of creating an image; so pursued a career specializing in food photography.

Experience

During his career as a professional photographer, he has captured over 100 magazine covers for leading magazines, as well as worked on a wide variety of editorial content and travel assignments. His experience in food photography is extensive with regular projects including photographing commercial advertising campaigns for well-known brands, agencies, local businesses and start-ups. He has also received several awards including several Sony Profoto Awards.

Behind the Lens

He loves running a roll of film through his ever-growing camera collection. He finds the entire process therapeutic; from capturing a frame to processing the film by hand – it’s a very special thing to be able to step away from his digital day-to-day and remind himself why the art of photography is so magical.

4. Jeff Wasserman @jrwasserman

Toronto-based commercial/editorial photographer https://www.jeffwassermanphoto.com/


Contact: [email protected] 1.647.987.4330183


Address: Geary Ave., Toronto, Ontario, Canada M6H 2C1

Jeff Wasserman is a seasoned professional commercial photographer with a focus on food, beverage, and still-life photography. Based in Toronto, Canada, Jeff has been in the industry for over 20 years, developing a unique and sophisticated style that brings out the beauty and artistry in his subjects. His work has appeared in various publications, advertisements, and commercial projects, showcasing his exceptional talent for capturing stunning and visually appealing images. He has picked up a few awards along the way, including 100+ Society for News Design awards and a recent Applied Arts award.
Jeff Wasserman’s photography style is characterized by careful attention to detail, creative lighting and strong composition. He collaborates with food stylists, prop stylists, and art directors to create captivating images that tell a story and evoke an emotional connection with the viewer. His extensive experience and expertise in food and beverage photography have made him a sought-after professional in the industry.
Some of his notable clients include McDonald’s, Unilever, Nestle, PepsiCo, and President’s Choice, among others. Jeff’s work has been recognized for its high-quality, innovative approach, and ability to bring a fresh perspective to the world of food and beverage photography.

5. Food Photographer & Stylist | Kevin $ Bryna @ thefoodstudio.ca

Kevin & Bryna
Creative Photography, Videos, StopMotion & Social Media
https://linktr.ee/kevinbraganza


Contact: +1-(437)-216-9520
[email protected]
[email protected]

Kevin and Bryna are a food photography and styling duo with a shared passion for creating visually stunning, mouth-watering images in Toronto. They collaborate to create beautiful and compelling photographs that showcase the artistry and allure of food. With a focus on using natural light, their photography style emphasizes the colours, textures and details of each dish, producing images that are not only appealing but also tell a story.
Kevin, the food, product and portrait photographer, has a keen eye for composition and an ability to capture the essence of the food he shoots. His background in photography and design provides him with the skills to produce outstanding images that resonate with viewers. The past three years of his journey as a visual artist have been focused on people and product photography. He partners with reputed brands as well as family-owned businesses for food, restaurant and product photography projects. In addition to these projects, he freelances with Canadian lifestyle websites such as Taste Toronto and It’s On Village. He also dabbles in portrait, wedding, maternity, corporate and event photography. His passion for visual storytelling has presented him with the opportunity to work with some great people and brands across Toronto, the GTA and Mississauga as well as other cities in Canada and the United States. His editing and retouching skills have helped him expand his creative boundaries. His photography work published on popular websites including BlogTO, Toronto.com, Destination Toronto, Tdot Shots and Daily Hive. He was recently featured on Giggster’s list of ‘Top Food Photographers in Toronto’. In 2021 he was ranked among Toronto’s Top 10 Food Photographers according to PeerSpace Canada and has been featured among Shutterturf’s top food photographers in Toronto. Bryna, the food stylist, has a deep understanding of food presentation and culinary techniques. She uses her knowledge to create dishes that are both visually appealing and true to the essence of the ingredients and recipes. Her attention to detail and creative flair help bring each dish to life, resulting in images that are both delectable and visually stunning. Together, Kevin and Bryna have worked with various clients in the food and hospitality industry, from restaurants and cafes to food brands and publications. Their combined skills in photography and food styling create a dynamic team capable of producing high-quality, captivating content that showcases the beauty and artistry of food.

6. Dexter @Thedexterousvegan

https://www.instagram.com/thedexterousvegan/

Dexter | Vegan Food & PhotosPhotographer, Food Photographer, Vegan chef & Recipe Creator

The Dexterous Vegan is a food blog and Instagram account run by Rebecca Coleman, a passionate foodie and culinary enthusiast based in Vancouver, Canada. She focuses on plant-based and vegan recipes, sharing her creative and delicious dishes with her audience. As a talented food stylist and photographer, Rebecca creates visually stunning images that showcase the beauty and appeal of vegan food.

In addition to sharing her recipes and food photography on her blog and social media channels, Rebecca also provides valuable insights into the vegan lifestyle, sustainable living, and healthy eating habits. Her work aims to inspire and educate others about the benefits of a plant-based diet and the endless possibilities it offers in terms of taste and presentation.


Rebecca’s photography style is characterized by the use of natural light, vibrant colours and appealing compositions. Her attention to detail and her ability to capture the essence of each dish make her work stand out in the world of food photography and styling.


Through The Dexterous Vegan, Rebecca Coleman has successfully combined her love for plant-based cuisine with her skills in food styling and photography, creating a platform that not only entertains but also educates and inspires others to embrace a healthier and more sustainable way of living.

7. Florence @bonjourtasty

Florence | BonjourTasty
Vegan baking recipes on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@bonjourtasty

Florence, the creator behind BonjourTasty, is a talented food photographer, stylist and recipe developer based in Montreal, Canada. Her passion for food, combined with her keen eye for detail and creative flair has led her to create a beautiful and inspiring platform where she shares her love for cooking and photography.

On her blog and social media channels, Florence showcases an array of delicious and visually stunning recipes, with a focus on French and Canadian cuisine. Her photography style features natural light, vibrant colours, and well-composed shots that highlight the textures and flavours of each dish. Florence’s work captures the essence of each recipe, creating images that are both mouth-watering and visually captivating.

In addition to her work as a food photographer and stylist, Florence also shares tips and insights on cooking techniques, kitchen tools, and ingredients, making BonjourTasty a valuable resource for food enthusiasts and home cooks alike. Through her work, Florence aims to inspire others to explore their culinary creativity and discover the joy of cooking and sharing food with others.

Overall, Florence’s BonjourTasty is a testament to her passion for food and her talent as a photographer and food stylist, offering a unique and inspiring perspective on the culinary world.



8. Owais @owais_rafique

Toronto’s top 10 food photographers by @peerspace
Staff Photographer – @curiocitytoronto
Corporate – @photoholicstudios

https://www.photoholicimagery.com/

Owais Rafique is a skilled food photographer, stylist and content creator. His social media presence, particularly on Instagram, showcases his passion for food and his talent for capturing beautiful, mouth-watering images. Owais’ work focuses on presenting dishes in a visually stunning way, using creative compositions, natural light, and vibrant colours to draw attention to the textures and flavours of the food.
His photography style is characterized by its attention to detail, clean lines, and the ability to create a connection between the viewer and the food. Owais has a strong understanding of how to use lighting, angles, and styling techniques to create images that are both engaging and appetizing. In addition to his work in food photography and styling, Owais Rafique often shares his experiences and insights about food and cooking on his social media channels. This can include restaurant reviews, tips on ingredients and even glimpses into his culinary adventures. By combining his love for food with his talent for photography and styling, Owais Rafique has been able to create a unique and inspiring presence in the world of food content creation. His work not only entertains but also encourages others to explore and appreciate the culinary world.
Phot-O-Holic Imagery founded by Owais Rafique in 2012 is an award-winning studio that specializes in Food branding & product photography, Event coverage, Executive portraits & Destination Weddings. With over 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Owais has always had an interest in telling a story with the use of images. What started as a hobby soon resulted in a growing business, working closely with some of the world’s largest brands including Tourism Toronto, Pernod Ricard, and numerous hotel chains. He was named one of the top 10 food photographers in Toronto for 2021. He and his team draw inspiration from food, architecture & travel to create stunning imagery to showcase their clients’ vision.

9. Dave @dave.r.roberts

https://www.instagram.com/dave.r.roberts/

Photographer
Greater Toronto Area

Dave R. Roberts is a talented food photographer and stylist who captures visually stunning and appetizing images of food. With a passion for food and an eye for detail, Dave’s photography showcases the beauty and artistry of culinary creations. His work emphasizes the texture, flavours and presentation of dishes. His social media presence, particularly on Instagram, features a collection of his work that highlights his creative vision and skill.
Dave’s photography style is characterized by the use of natural light, bold colours, and well-composed shots that emphasize the textures, flavours, and presentation of each dish. His attention to detail and ability to tell a story through his images make his work both captivating and engaging.

In addition to his food photography and styling work, Dave R. Roberts often shares his experiences, insights, and tips related to food, cooking and the culinary world on his social media channels. This can include anything from restaurant reviews to ingredient spotlights and cooking techniques.
Through his photography and content, Dave R. Roberts creates a unique and inspiring presence in the world of food and culinary arts. His passion and talent for capturing the essence of food and creating visually stunning images make him a sought-after professional in the industry.

10. Maya visnyei @maya_visnyei

Photographer
https://www.mayavisnyei.com/

Address: 86 Miller St. Toronto, ON M6N 2Z9
Studio: 416 656 6292
Mobile: 416 254 6744
[email protected]

Maya Visnyei is a talented Toronto-based food and lifestyle photographer known for her captivating and visually stunning work. With a strong passion for food, Maya has developed a unique and vibrant style that captures the essence of each dish, emphasizing colours, textures, and presentation. Her keen eye for detail and creativity has made her a sought-after photographer in the industry.
Maya has worked with a wide range of clients, including food brands, restaurants, and publications, earning bookings from some of the best names in the industry. She draws upon her depth of knowledge in shooting food, products, and people to create vibrant images that consistently resonate with the senses. With a depth of expertise in lighting, composition, and design techniques, Maya creates dynamic narratives, textures, and moods that go beyond the expected. She is also known for her innovative motion work, creating tantalizing visions of products, and connecting audiences to food and lifestyle brands through authentic, vibrant storytelling.
Her photography has been featured in numerous campaigns, editorials, and cookbooks, showcasing her ability to create mouth-watering images that connect with viewers and evoke an emotional response. In addition to her work in food photography, Maya Visnyei also specializes in lifestyle photography, capturing the stories behind the food and the people who create it. Her diverse skill set and genuine passion for her craft have made her a well-respected figure in the Canadian food and photography scene.

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