creative shadows
FOR FOOD & PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY
Shadows aren't a mistake. They're the goal.
The $37 mini class that teaches you to use shadow as a compositional tool — not something to edit away.
It wasn't that long ago when the goal of most food & product photographers was to create light, ethereal imagery with soft, barely-there shadows. Hard light was considered ugly.
Nowadays, though, shadows have become one of the strongest tools in creating narrative in my work, and one of my absolute favorite ways to shape a dynamic composition. And hard light is the only way you can actually achieve that.
You may have tried to create beautiful shadows yourself, yet struggled to achieve the desired effect-- moved your setup around, chased the window at different times of day. And it still doesn't look like what you want.
Here's the thing: those shadows aren't luck, and they don't require a lighting kit that costs more than your camera. They're a choice and an easily learnable skill. A compositional decision, made on purpose, by someone who understands what shadow actually does in a frame.
You can learn to make that same choice- in under an hour, with gear you probably already own.
"From soft, gentle light and subtle shadows to dramatic, deep shadows, she makes every technique easy to understand and apply. This class immediately transformed the way I approach photographing food, and I came away with a much stronger understanding of how to intentionally use light and shadow to create dreamy images!"
-Erica
@erica.klock
what's inside
• A focused video lesson, in just under an hour
• 5 real shoot demonstrations
• Summary slides to reference any time
• Practice prompts to apply what you've learned
• Lifetime access
"Clare’s mini course on using shadows in food photography, was a huge eye opener, even transformational! It saw how to use the shadows of objects (and fluids!) to create mood, interest, excitement, dimension and even in telling the story of time, season and place in a photograph."
-Wes
@whaphotos
this mini class is for you if...
- You've looked at photos with beautiful, dramatic shadows and wondered how to do it yourself
- You've been taught to "fix" shadows instead of use them
- You want a creative edge in your food or product photography without buying more gear
- You're curious, but not looking to commit to a huge course right now
- You learn best by watching someone show you, then trying it yourself
This class is not for you if you're looking for a comprehensive lighting system from the ground up — that's a different class, for a different day. This one has a single job: teach you to see and use shadow. It does that job well.
"One of the best things about this course is learning that the tools you need for beautiful and dramatic shadows are on hand or inexpensive, like glassware, plants, or a piece of foam core. I return to these lessons often when I need fresh shadow inspiration for my photos."
-Nancy
@hungryenoughtoeatsix
FAQ
Do I need a specific camera or lighting setup?
No. This class works with one, un-diffused light — whether that's sunlight, a speedlight, studio strobe or continuous light doesn't matter.
How long is the class?
Under an hour, and it's yours to keep — watch it once, or come back to it anytime.
Is this class right for beginners?
Yes. If you can take a photo, you can take this class. No prior lighting experience needed.
What if I already know some lighting basics?
This class isn't about lighting fundamentals broadly — it's specifically about shadow as a compositional tool. Your level of experience using lighting isn't really relevant.
your instructor
Hi, I’m Clare Barboza—professional photographer for over 25 years, with the last 15 focused on food.
I’m also the co-owner of Poppy Bee Surfaces (and yep, every single photo on this site? I took it).
Over the years, I’ve shot more than three dozen cookbooks and collaborated with brands, chefs, farms, and restaurants across the country.
Since 2008, I’ve been leading photography workshops, and they’ve become one of the most meaningful parts of my work.
Helping others uncover their creative voice—and actually trust it—isn’t just something I love; it feels like a big part of why I do what I do.
