6 Main Points

Sales Photography at Restaurants: Quick Guide for New Photographers

Review the key points below to build strong photography habits and maximize your sales potential.

🎯 1. Master the Sales Phrasing

Use this script every time, and never alter the phrasing:
“Hey guys! Today at [Restaurant Name], we are giving out a FREE photo postcard and offer optional photos to all guests today. So let's take a few quick photos!”
Do not ask permission to take photos—confidently invite them.

📸 2. Take Separate Shots & Move Fast

• Always take multiple shots of the group and individual subsets (e.g. just kids, just parents, couples).

• Plan your sequence before approaching a table.

• Keep transitions fast: “Now you guys—click-click-click.”
  
  

🧠 3. Understand Your Audience

Different demographics prefer different styles and poses:

• Couples: Easy to pose. Use hugging, kissing, and shoulder-to-shoulder shots. Aim for 4 photos unless elderly.

• Families with Kids: Capture group shots, just kids, and just parents. Prioritize high-quality shots away from cluttered tables.

• Women: Suggest holding drinks, forming hearts, or posing back-to-back.

• Men: Best approached when drinking. Encourage cheers, fist bumps, or funny faces.

• Large Parties (6+): Snap group photos, then smaller subgroups. Ask if they’re celebrating.

• Business Groups: Group shots, individual shots of 2-3 people sitting together.

• Pets: Always include pets! Get a group shot, owner+pet, and solo pet photos.
  
  

⚙️ 4. Take High-Quality Photos

• Shoot from a straight-on angle and avoid cropping people out.

• Bright, clear photos sell better—avoid shadows and underexposed shots.

• Move around the table to get the best shot.

• Watch for visual distractions like messy tables or background staff.
  
  

⏱️ 5. Manage Your Time

• Cover 3–4 tables per print round. Avoid taking tables one at a time.

• Be alert—shoot new tables as others wait or wrap up.

• Prioritize speed during busy times, but never sacrifice photo quality.
  
  

👔 6. Dress & Act Professionally

• Arrive polished and in proper uniform.

• Smile and be confident. Your attitude affects tips and sales.

• Handle rejection professionally and move on gracefully.
  
  

💵 7. Sell With Confidence

• First, hand out the free photo postcard as promised.

• Then, personally hand framed photos to each guest—do not keep them in your hands.

• Highlight your favorite photo to spark interest: “This one’s my favorite!” or “I love how this one turned out!”
  
  

🧠 Bonus: Technical Tips

• Take multiple shots to ensure everyone’s smiling.

• Adjust angles.

• Fill the frame to eliminate empty space and highlight your subjects.
  
  

You're not just taking pictures—you're creating memorable experiences. Good luck! 🎉