Simulating Sunlight in Food Photography – A Cake Shoot in Zhuhai, China

Food photography is all about making viewers feel like they can taste what they see. During a recent shoot in Zhuhai, China, I set out to photograph a beautifully crafted cake—not in natural light, but by simulating sunlight with flash.

Why flash? In controlled indoor environments, real sunlight can be unpredictable or unavailable. So, I recreated that overcast sky glow using a powerful off-camera flash paired with a open silver grey umbrella. The result? A rich, directional light that mimicked late afternoon sun pouring in through a window.

To add more life to the cake, I introduced subtle highlights with a reflector and positioned the flash slightly behind and to the side. This setup gave the cake an irresistible sparkle—highlighting texture, color, and those tiny frosting details that make a dessert photo mouthwatering.

This approach not only gave me consistency across the shoot, but also allowed full control over shadows and mood—something natural light just can’t guarantee every time.

Whether you're a bakery owner or a brand looking to elevate your food visuals, remember: you don’t need sunlight, just the right tools and vision.

Looking for food photography in Zhuhai or beyond? Ken Tam Photography delivers high-end commercial food shoots with the artistry and lighting finesse your brand deserves. Get in touch to schedule your session.