After starting as a chef many years ago, BOSS Creative Paul Dickson moved into the world of food styling. In this post, he tells us his top tips for aspiring food stylists and reveals the highlight of his career so far.
Did you always want to work with food?
I started as a chef many years ago and now my career has evolved into a nice mix of food styling, cooking and teaching.
How did you start out in food styling?
I have always naturally been drawn to great food images and I have a HUGE collection of cook books. My first food styling break was with Country Range.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a food stylist?
Start by snapping your own food and post it on Instagram, read cookbooks and if you can get the chance, shadow an experienced food stylist. Go for it!
What do you think would surprise people about food styling?
You never stop learning new techniques and the job is very varied. Things aren’t always as they seem in the final image!
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I like working with like minded creative people and the problem solving aspect of the job.
It’s national chocolate week! What is your favourite kind of chocolate and how do you like to eat it?
I love chocolate - particularly dark 85%. Luckily for me I’m the only one who likes chocolate in my house so I can eat just a few squares per night without the worry of people stealing the rest out of the fridge!
Are there any projects that have been a highlight of your career so far?
I loved working with Country Range on frozen fruit. We worked on a ‘5 Ways With Fruit’ shoot and I was given total freedom on both recipe development and images. I was really pleased with the summer pudding shot with a jug of cream that came out from the shoot – it’s so simple and the lighting works really well.
See more of Paul's work on our website
