Food photographers should understand the art of food styling, and have the ability to prepare, arrange, and touch-up food before photographing. However the best way for the food photographer to work is to hire a professional food stylist to prepare the food. That way the food photographer can concentrate on the lighting, set-up and photography of the food.

Most food photographers run their own businesses, and serve cookbook, magazine, and commercial clients. Besides the actual photographing, food photographers spend much of their time running their business. Food photographers need to organise photo shoots, prepare locations, liase with clients, and prepare copyright registrations. It's important for food photographers to have good business, marketing, and communication skills.