I was fortunate enough to get invited to join a food photography class with the Shutterclub.  The class was taught by Steve Adams at his studio.  Steve has been photographing food for many years and really knows his stuff!  

We got to tour his studio first and see how he operates.  He has a kitchen in the studio where chefs can come create culinary masterpieces for Steve to photograph....and then later eat. :)  He then presented a very informative slideshow for us to enjoy that answered many of my questions about getting a photo into a magazine format.

His setup for the food shots really showed his attention to detail and how important light was in the finished product.

He had a back room for storage that contained dozens of various cutting boards, plates and other props that he uses for his photographic creations.

Last but not least, we got to try out our skills with fruits and vegetables using various lighting and props that Steve set up.  It was so fun and really challenging for me.  I photographed some radishes and even a cupcake (that really took all my willpower not to eat after).

 I know that I now have a much greater appreciation of the food photos that I see in the future since I know how much went into getting that shot.