The future of food photography & content creation on Instagram: What’s shifting in 2026

Welcome to season 15! In today's episode (173) of the EAT, CAPTURE, SHARE podcast, I'm reconnecting with food photographers and educators Joanie Simon and Lauren Short to take a peek into the New Year. We explore what’s shifting in the food blogging, food photography, and content creation space, share how we’re personally navigating change, and get real about which food photography trends are a total MUST this season! Here's what else you can expect from today's episode:I share some exciting announcements to ensure your 2026 is off to a gorgeously creative and successful start!Lauren and Joanie introduce themselves and share what’s currently shaping their work.We talk about the move away from “perfect” imagery and what 2026 trend is taking its place to create deeper connections with online audiences.We discuss which content format continues to dominate and influence the food space well into 2026.Lauren, Joanie and I unpack the growing role of AI in food photography and what that might mean moving forward.We share behind-the-scenes ways we’ve already experimented with AI in our creative businesses.A reminder that authentic storytelling still matters and how to balance it with strong professional standards.We identify the colour (and style) trend Pantone overlooked, yet is bang on trend for 2026, that may feel surprisingly familiar.We explore what’s happening with lighting trends right now, and whether long-loved approaches are on their way out.LINKS MENTIONED:Order my new book HOW TO MAKE YOUR FOOD FAMOUS HERE!My first book, Creative Food Photography is available HERE! Find out more about my online Reels Course HEREFind out more about my in-person workshops HERERecap: London food videography & styling workshop 2025Sign up to my Instagram Masterclass wait list HEREJoanie's website, Instagram and YouTubeLauren's food photography book, YouTube and Food Photography AcademyTech Tiff mentioned by Joanie Chef's Table on Netflix (see full show notes)AI & food photography: All you need to know – episode 130 (see full show notes)Re-release: Thoughts on Instagram, Beth Kirby and mental health – episode 84 (see full show notes)The biggest food photography and Instagram trends: 2023 episode 105, 2022 episode 77, 2021 episode 57 (see full show notes)See full show notes HEREFind my Instagram HERE 

In today’s episode (172) of the EAT, CAPTURE, SHARE podcast, I’m joined by interior designer and founder of the beautiful home textiles brand Nindyaa, Büşra Qadir. Büşra opens up about her creative journey on Instagram, sharing where she finds inspiration, how she navigates brand rejections with resilience, and the heartfelt story behind her much-loved kitchen.Büşra’s passion for interiors, food, and family all come together in this one meaningful space - so pour yourself a cup of tea, settle in, and enjoy this inspiring conversation.In this episode, you’ll discover:Büşra introduces herself.How Büşra found her voice as a designer and content creator.Her process for planning intentional, engaging content for social media.Why authenticity is a superpower and how she uses it to shine on Instagram.Büşra outlines exactly what steps she took to increase brand collaborations (so that you can too!)Büşra shares her top tip for pitching to brands to ensure you stand out! Her insightful interior styling advice for elevating your home.Her top tips for transforming any space — no matter the size — into a room you truly love.LINKS MENTIONED:Order my new book HOW TO MAKE YOUR FOOD FAMOUS HERE! It’s all about developing a social media strategy that works!My first book, Creative Food Photography is available HERE! It’s for food photographers who want to find their own unique style and up level their photographyFind out more about my online Reels for Food Content Creators Course HEREThe Arkon Remarkable Creator™ Pro+Plus Mount w/Ring Light camera stand. Use code TLPcreate at checkout for 20% off!Büşra’s Instagram and website (coming soon!)Beit Douma guesthouse in LebanonNindyaa websiteFind the full show notes HEREFind my Instagram HERE Büşra’s profile image is by Kira Duwenhorst

In today’s solo episode (171) of the Eat Capture Share podcast, I’m opening up about something I’ve been very nervous to talk about - my recent weight loss. Over the past 11 months, I’ve lost just shy of 16 kilos (that’s around 35 pounds). As someone who’s 1.52m tall, that’s quite a transformation - and it’s been a deeply personal journey.I’ll be sharing what worked for me, how my relationship with movement and food evolved, and the mindset shifts that helped me reconnect with my body in a healthy, sustainable way. If you're looking to start your weight loss journey in 2026 or simply are curious how best to navigate working in food whilst maintaining a healthy lifestyle, this episode is for you! Here's what else you can expect from today's episode...Why I was so hesitant to talk about weight loss publicly.How my lifelong relationship with movement shaped my body story.The three big turning points that led to gradual weight gain.The rock bottom moment I decided to make a change.How I approach movement as a busy entrepreneur.The surprising mindset shift that changed how I eat - for good.The quiet habits that made all the difference (spoiler: they had nothing to do with restriction).LINKS MENTIONED:Order my new book HOW TO MAKE YOUR FOOD FAMOUS HERE! It’s all about developing a social media strategy that works!My first book, Creative Food Photography is available HERE! It’s for food photographers who want to find their own unique style and up level their photographyFind out more about my online Reels for Food Content Creators Course HERERecommended podcast episode if you have a history of disordered eating or if you talk about food on your public platforms: Intuitive eating on Instagram + are food bloggers to blame for orthorexia, with Christy Harrison – Eat Capture Share podcast episode number 7Form Nutrition - Grab your 20% discount using the code KIMBERLY20 at checkout (applies to sales in the UK, US and EU)My blogMy fitness and weight Instagram story updatePip and nut barThe retreat I went to that changed everythingThe fitness app I useWithings scaleThe biggest food photography & Instagram trends for 2024 with Penny De Los Santos and Lina Jabbari – podcast episode 129The Reel with Lina JabbariCreative food photography is here! + how to write a book (part 3) – podcast episode 56Amy Porterfield’s episodes about her weight loss journey (links in full show notes)Find the full show notes HEREFind my Instagram HERE 

In today's episode (170) of the EAT, CAPTURE, SHARE podcast, I'm doing a deep dive into all things Instagram with the amazing Zach Spuckler, founder of marketing company Heart, Soul & Hustle and host of the Heart, Soul & Hustle podcast. This time, Zach is interviewing me in an episode originally recorded for his podcast.We dive into how often you really need to post on Instagram to grow your audience, why surface-level stats don’t tell the whole story, and I coach Zach through what’s been secretly holding him back from his own Instagram growth. Grab a pen — you’re going to want to jot down every one of my Instagram growth gems! Here's what else you can expect from today's episode...I chat about staying motivated to post on Instagram even when you don’t hit your posting targets.I break down why understanding both your strengths and your audience is the secret to creating scroll-stopping content.I talk about finding the perfect balance between hopping on Instagram trends and staying true to what resonates with your followers.I reveal the three must-watch Instagram metrics that will actually move the needle on your growth.I share my most actionable audience-building strategies.We chat about how we turn Instagram inspiration into our own original content.I walk you through how I plan my monthly content calendar (yes, it’s simpler than you think!).LINKS MENTIONED:Order my brand new book HOW TO MAKE YOUR FOOD FAMOUS HERE! It’s all about developing a social media strategy that works!My first book, Creative Food Photography is available HERE! It’s for food photographers who want to find their own unique style and up level their photographyZach's website, Instagram and FacebookAmy PorterfieldInstagram ad strategies for food photographers – Eat Capture Share podcast episode number 159Find the full show notes HEREFind my Instagram HERE 

In today's episode (169) of the EAT, CAPTURE, SHARE podcast, I'm talking with Hawaii based designer and food photographer, Alanna O'Neil. Alanna shares her food photography journey and evolution, her top trick for using Instagram to find paying food photography clients, and her thoughts on what it really means to tell a story through your photography. Alanna’s intuitive, down-to-earth wisdom will inspire you to trust your creative instincts and let your inner food photographer guide the way.Here's what else you can expect from today's episode...Alanna introduces herself.Alanna gives her best advice to food photographers struggling to find their visual voice.Alanna explains how to stay true to your own style while working with brands.Alanna gives her top tips for finding clients.Alanna gives step-by-step advice for how to cold pitch to clients.Alanna shares her strategies for incorporating visual storytelling into her food photography.We talk about how to balance food and lifestyle photography within our creative work.Alanna talks about why resisting the pressure to create videos has been the best choice for her creative voice.LINKS MENTIONED:Order my brand new book HOW TO MAKE YOUR FOOD FAMOUS HERE! It’s all about developing a social media strategy that works!My first book, Creative Food Photography is available HERE! It’s for food photographers who want to find their own unique style and up level their photographyAlanna’s website, Instagram and Visual Voices CollectiveHow to hone your food photography style – Eat Capture Share podcast episode number 134Find out more about my Food Photography & Food Styling Online Foundation Course HEREFind the full show notes HEREFind my Instagram HERE 

In today’s mini solo episode (168) of the EAT, CAPTURE, SHARE podcast, I’m opening up and sharing some of the biggest mistakes I’ve made in my creative business this year.I love celebrating wins, but it’s equally important to reflect on what hasn’t worked to allow for further growth in the months and years to come. My hope in sharing where things went wrong in my business this year is twofold: I hope there are some mistakes here that you can learn from and avoid in your own creative business and I hope that you’ll see it’s not always smooth sailing, even 11 years into building a career within the food photography, content creation and educator space.Here’s what else you’ll learn in today’s episode:Final invitation: Apply for the Fearless Focus mastermind.Why prioritising one area of your business can make all the difference and what happens when you spread yourself too thin.How and why my Instagram strategy has held back and affected my bottom line.The key mistake I made as an educator (if you're looking to teach, create online courses and sell workshops this is a MUST LISTEN).How I overcame my resistance to creating online courses, and what finally helped me break through.I chat about the role of vulnerability in building a strong personal brand.I explain why storytelling matters just as much as value and strategy.If you’ve ever felt frustrated with your social media growth, or wondered how to grow any aspect of your creative business, this episode will give you practical ideas for moving forward.LINKS MENTIONED:Find out more and apply for my Fearless Focus Mastermind & Mentoring Program HEREOrder my brand new book HOW TO MAKE YOUR FOOD FAMOUS HERE! It’s all about developing a social media strategy that works!My first book, Creative Food Photography is available HERE! It’s for food photographers who want to find their own unique style and up level their photographyFind out more about my online courses HEREHow to create great reels! - Eat Capture Share Podcast episode number 132Vanessa LauFind out more about my Food Photography & Food Styling Online Foundation Course HEREWhy I made less money in my business this yearDon't become a food photographer or food content creatorFind out more about my free Instagram Food Photography Challenge HEREHow I overcame setbacks in my food photography business. Read more about it in this blog post HEREFind the full show notes and all my on-air mentoring session links HEREFind my Instagram HERE 

In today's episode (167) of the EAT, CAPTURE, SHARE podcast, you'll be listening in to the final creative business mentoring session of 2025.I’m working one-on-one with Audrey, a full-time New York–based food photographer who wants to book more (and better!) food photography clients. This episode is packed with practical tips to strengthen your pitching strategy, attract dream clients, and make the most of the content you’re already creating.Because the thing is, growing a successful food photography or content creation business isn’t always about inventing something brand new. Often, the biggest results come from doubling down on proven strategies, doing them consistently, strategically, and really, really well.Here's what else you can expect from today's episode...I share more information about the Fearless Focus Mastermind and Mentoring Program.A detailed review of Audrey’s cold pitching strategy — including the key areas she needs to improve to increase her success rate.Common blind spots in cold pitching (so you don’t make the same mistakes!).How to write more intentional and effective pitching emails that actually get noticed.Tips to fine-tune your follow-up schedule so brands are more likely to respond.One of my very best email subject lines to use when pitching food brands.The types of brands to avoid pitching and where to focus your energy instead.How to assess which marketing strategies to let go of — and which ones to double down on for real results.The surprising business superpower Audrey didn’t know she had (and how you might have one too!).Smart strategies to increase the lifespan of your content, so it works harder for you.Why SEO is worth your time and energy as a food photographer or food content creator.A hands-on review of Audrey’s Instagram profile, with practical tips to help her (and you!) attract more clients.LINKS MENTIONED:Find out more and apply for my Fearless Focus Mastermind & Mentoring Program HEREOrder my brand new book HOW TO MAKE YOUR FOOD FAMOUS HERE! It’s all about developing a social media strategy that works!My first book, Creative Food Photography is available HERE! It’s for food photographers who want to find their own unique style and up level their photographyAudrey’s website and InstagramHow to make money doing what you love, with Nikki Rausch – Eat Capture Share podcast episode 33What every food photographer needs to know about pricing! – Eat Capture Share podcast episode 97Sign up to my free 5-day food photography business challenge (includes a pitching template!)See how to use your photos in a reel hereFind the full show notes (& previous mentoring sessions) HEREFind my Instagram HERE

In today's episode (166) of the EAT, CAPTURE, SHARE podcast, you'll be listening in on another creative business mentoring session. I’m working one-on-one with Anna - a talented food photographer, recipe developer and content creator who is looking to take her career to the next level. It’s a raw and honest conversation about what it really takes to build a sustainable creative career - from landing more clients to creating reliable income streams. If you’ve ever felt stuck, second-guessed yourself, or longed to turn your food photography and content creation dreams into a profitable business, this episode is for you.Here's what else you can expect from today's episode...I share more information about the Fearless Focus Mastermind and Mentoring Program.A behind-the-scenes look at the magic wand exercise we start the session with — an inspiring way to dream big about the creative business you really want (you’ll want to try this yourself!).The truth about Anna’s current income streams — and the new monetisation opportunities that could transform her business.The single most important area Anna needs to focus on right now to increase her income (and how you can apply this too).A deep dive into what’s already working beautifully in Anna’s business — and how to build on it.Why the self-fulfilling prophecy could be holding you back more than you realise.Marketing strategies that actually work — including one that’s perfect for introverts.An honest discussion about the sacrifices involved in building a content creation business — and whether they’re worth it for you.How often you really need to market in order to see results.The mindset blocks standing between you and the business you dream of — and how to start dismantling them.A step-by-step pitching strategy (plus my #1 pitching tip you don’t want to miss!).How Anna could build out digital assets to create more consistent revenue.LINKS MENTIONED:Find out more and apply for my Fearless Focus Mastermind & Mentoring Program HEREOrder my brand new book HOW TO MAKE YOUR FOOD FAMOUS HERE! It’s all about developing a social media strategy that works!My first book, Creative Food Photography is available HERE! It’s for food photographers who want to find their own unique style and up level their photographyAnna's Instagram and website  Madrid food photography, styling and social media workshop 2018. Read more about it in this blog post HEREFind links to episodes and blog posts all about my journey in self-publishing, here (see “links mentioned”)Find the full show notes and links to all previous on-air mentoring sessions HEREFind my Instagram HERE 

In today's episode (165) of the EAT, CAPTURE, SHARE podcast, I'm chatting with family photographer and host of This Can't Be That Hard podcast, Annemie Tonken, thereby continuing our business focused podcast episodes!Annemie shares how she created a recurring revenue business model for her photography business and how you can too! We talk about how recurring revenue can help you create a sustainable and profitable creative business without the overwhelm. Annemie is a fountain of practical wisdom, and her insights are bound to spark new ideas for your own food photography business journey. Here's what else you can expect from today's episode... I share more details about the Fearless Focus Mastermind and Mentoring Program.Annemie introduces herself. We chat about how Annemie developed a recurring revenue model and how you can too.Annemie explains why her photography subscription model became the key to saving her business.We dig into how a membership offer can be tailored for food photographers.We explore how to tell if a membership model is the right fit for your photography business.Annemie gives her top tips for a successful membership launch.Annemie shares practical strategies to make your food photography business more sustainable and profitable.LINKS MENTIONED:Find out more and sign up to the wait list for my Fearless Focus Mastermind & Mentoring Program HERE (signing up to the wait list gets you early access, before doors open in August 2025)Order my brand new book HOW TO MAKE YOUR FOOD FAMOUS HERE! It’s all about developing a social media strategy that works!My first book, Creative Food Photography is available HERE! It’s for food photographers who want to find their own unique style and up level their photographyAnnemie's website and InstagramInstagram strategies for photographers – Eat Capture Share podcast episode number 161Talking all things business with my coach, Rick Mulready – Eat Capture Share podcast episode number 98Find the full show notes HEREFind my Instagram HERE 

In today's episode (164) of the EAT, CAPTURE, SHARE podcast, you'll be listening in on another creative business mentoring session. I’m working one-on-one with Kerri — a food photographer and recipe developer at the very start of her career – to explore ways of monetising her content and finding paying food photography clients. If you're unsure how to get your food photography business off the ground, or feel lost when it comes to marketing your food photography or food content creation services, then this episode is for you!Here's what else you can expect from today's episode...I share yet more information about the Fearless Focus Mastermind and Mentoring Program.We dive into smart, sustainable ways Kerri can show up on social media consistently and build a thriving food content creation business — while still being fully present as a parent.I reveal the one crucial area of your food photography business to prioritise if monetisation is your #1 goal.We talk through simple yet powerful tweaks to optimise your blog or website so it naturally attracts high-quality, paying clients.We dig into what it really means to 10x your main marketing strategy — and why it’s a non-negotiable move if you want lasting financial success.I explain why delegating too early could slow your growth — and how to know exactly when to bring others on board.We explore how mastering the art of pitching can completely shift your trajectory as a food photographer.I share how to turn “free work” into real, paid opportunities.Kerri opens up vulnerably as we unpack the real blocks holding her back from monetising her creative work.LINKS MENTIONED:Find out more and sign up to the wait list for my Fearless Focus Mastermind & Mentoring Program HERE (signing up to the wait list gets you early access, before doors open in August 2025)Order my brand new book HOW TO MAKE YOUR FOOD FAMOUS HERE!My first book, Creative Food Photography is available HERE!Kerri’s Instagram and websiteSEO for food photographers and food bloggers – Eat Capture Share episode 74On-air mentoring session: Finding your brand identity on social media – Eat Capture Share episode 163Episodes with previous Fearless Focus mentees:How to go from 10k to 100k followers on Instagram! – episode 157Working with a food stylist – episode 135How this micro food influencer earned $10,000 a month! – episode 121How to turn food photography into a profitable side hustle – episode 119How to build a restaurant photography business – episode 112 How to perfect your food styling and iPhone photography – episode 89Zayne’s Plate Instagram and BookFind the full show notes HERE