Cafes are crying out for great coffee photography at reasonable prices, and what better way is there to showcase their products than to have coffee artwork featuring their team and drinks adorning the walls of the cafe?

This quickstart guide will help you achieve the perfect shot.

Choosing the right lens to shoot with is important. You need to get close to the subject, but in a cafe environment there are heat and moisture issues to contend with.

Equipment. Equipment choice is crucial. A Canon 60mm/f2.8 macro lens is ideal, allowing you to get within a few feet of your subject whilst having the ability to shoot portraits of the barista in action from the same spot.

Lighting. Lighting can be poor in cafes, with shadowing and movement often present. Some espresso machines have LED lights that can play havoc with your metering.Compensate by using a flashgun, offset from your subject (tip: shoot at the ceiling to create ambient light) or use a light diffuser to avoid sharp bands of light. Remember that most machines have metallic casings so reflections will show up in your photographs unless you take steps to avoid them.

Keep it natural. Avoid eye contact with the barista and leave them to work to their normal pace, shooting their workflow as they prepare the drink. This can give you a great sequence of shots that can be framed or used in their training manuals.

Use perspective. Photographing from a low angle will show objects in a different way than they are usually seen. This involves the viewer and places them in the picture, making them feel they are a part of the situation.

Work with the barista. Don't be intrusive or ask questions as this may cause them to lose their flow and look at the camera when answering the question.

Would you like to become a freelance coffee photographer?

5M Coffee Company is looking to expand its network and invites photographic submissions or links to your current portfolio. Send your photos or web links to shootme@5mcoffee.com