The 7 Best Food Photographers in Detroit (2025)

Detroit is a lesser-known food hub in the nation’s Rust Belt. With Detroit-style pizza, cider and doughnuts, and pączki finally getting the recognition they deserve, local businesses are clamoring to find talented food photographers who can showcase their talent and brands in the best light possible. That’s why we at Peerspace have taken the time to find the top Detroit food photographers working today.

As the largest online marketplace for hourly venue rentals, we not only highlight local creatives, but we strive to connect them with the spaces that bring their vision to life. Head to our platform to book natural light photo studios with commercial kitchens, classy and creative luxury flex spaces, and so much more. Feel free to explore their work and let us know which dish you’ll try first!

1. Get the images you need to show off your amazing cuisine with the work of Michelle Gerard

Covering food preparation, presentation, and lifestyle images, Michelle Gerard is one of the top food photographers in Detroit thanks to her full coverage of every element of her chosen project. She takes on a documentary angle that encompasses smiling chefs prepping vegetables and sauteing meat, as well as people enjoying the fruits of their labors!

Michelle uses a bright, modern color palette ranging from slighty moody to cheery outdoor natural lighting, whichever is best for the project. Spreads range from busy tabletops showing multi-course spreads to minimalistic vignettes of a section of a fine dining experience.

2. Get to the heart of your message with amazing food portraits by Andy Greenwell

Award-winning commercial and advertising photographer Andy Greenwell works hard capture fine-dining experiences through food. He also runs workshops and private lessons on photography techniques and lighting, sharing his passion and expertise with novice shutterbugs. We love Andy’s to-the-point portraiture take on food photography. Instead of showing a chaotic spread of elements on a busy table or plate, we’re treated to the main course right off the bat: savory meats on a veggie pilaf, grilled chicken with a side of salad.

As such, there’s no need for distracting elements to take away from the simple message of each delightful dish. And the way he brings the viewer in close allows our other senses to be stimulated by cues such as texture, moisture, and even smell and taste.

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3. Create editorial-worthy food images when you work with Marvin Shaouni

https://www.instagram.com/marvinshaouniphoto/

Supremely talented photographer and videographer Marvin Shaouni covers editorial and advertising projects with a focus on portraits, food, and lifestyle surrounding these subjects. His work has been featured in publications including The New York Times, Wine Enthusiast Magazine, Food Network Magazine, just to name a few.

Marvin’s years of experience are obvious when looking through his portfolio. We’re treated to compositions ranging from documentary takes on the preparation of a dish to harvesting fresh ingredients, the dishes themselves, and various aspects of the venue, such as wall art, outdoor seating, and the chefs and bartenders. His ease of transitioning between genres and perspectives in food photography makes him one of the best food photographers in Detroit.

4. Score fine-art-worthy food images through the lens of Samantha Jo Food Photography

Unlike many of the other professional photographers on this list, Samantha Jo’s sole focus is on food and beverage photography. She is passionate about creative beautifully composed culinary vignettes that inspire viewers to want to try each dish.

With Samantha, you can get classic food portraits, modern flat-lays, and other food pictures, all of which have a moody, fine-art touch that is simply irresistible. Her goal is to “Making creations look as good as they taste!” and we think she succeeds each and every time!

5. Get a behind-the-scenes look at your favorite dishes courtesy of Joe Vaughn

If you’re a fan of shadows, deep earth tones, and classic takes on food photography, Joe Vaughn is one of the best food photographers in Detroit for your next project! He has collaborated with household names, such as Coca-Cola, Time Magazine, the Food Network, and many other noteworthy brands.

With nearly 20 years of experience in photography and cinematography, it’s clear just how well Joe can convey both the story and beauty of each dish he photographs. His work invites us to see the chefs at work, dicing fresh tomatoes for your salad and frying calamari for the appetizer. We get to see each aspect of the product as it comes together in a holistic, artistic fashion.

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6. Showcase food and the people behind the dishes with Chuk Nowak

https://www.instagram.com/chuknowak

Chuk Nowak covers food, people, and entertainment in the Detroit area and nationwide. He uses a classic matte color tone to give a vintage take to his images. Much of his work also has a minimalist feel, though some of his portfolio has a distinct fine art approach.

We especially enjoy how well Chuk showcases contrasting textures and dishes; viewers are treated to the interplay between soft fruit, herbal textures, and stone countertops, each providing its own visual cues for the viewer. Chuk uses his photography as a way of masterfully telling stories about food and the people who create it. All of these skills make him one of the best food photographers in Detroit right now.

7. Book a creative who loves all aspects of food with Sarah Fennel of Broma Bakery

Founder of the Foodtography School and Broma Bakery blog, Sarah Fennel brings years of expertise to her food photography projects. She started off in her college days, making batches of baked delights for her housemates. Sarah then graduated and worked as a catering director for local restaurants.

Sarah eventually realized she had what it takes to run the social media accounts for each, including food photography coverage. And from there, Sarah’s love of food photography only grew stronger. With over 1,500 successful students enrolled in her Foodtography School, Sarah Fennel is the real deal.

Detroit food photographers: conclusion

As you can see, there is no shortage of Detroit food photographers who are dedicated to showcasing the city’s finest restaurants. Their work captures the tastiest places in the city (while awaking serious hunger pangs in viewers!). If you’re looking to work with one of Detroit’s best food photographers, reach out to your favorites on this list. They can explain how their work can make a difference in your project.

And when you’re ready to start shooting, come back here to Peerspace. Our platform can connect you to Detroit’s most stylish and well-equipped creative spaces. From professional photo studios to gourmet private kitchens, you can find it all on our website!

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