Overview

A food stylist designs, prepares and styles food for photography or on-air demonstration.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Stylize food items for photography and videography
• Go through a recipe step by step for on-air or video food demonstration
• Maintain and clean test kitchen or demonstration area as well as cooking equipment and utensils
• Consult with marketing and food production staff as to which foods or recipes should be photographed or presented
• Purchase food and recipe items needed for presentation
• Utilize props such as silverware, plates and fabric to stylize the food
• May at times conduct live demonstrations at industry or private events; organize supplies and ingredients needed to do so

What education and training is required?

A minimum of an associate’s degree in culinary arts, baking arts, nutrition or a related field is required to become a food stylist.

To pursue a career as a Food Stylist:

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, home economics, family consumer sciences, and art.

Where can I work?

Food companies and manufacturers, restaurant chains as well as meat and produce advocacy organizations employ food stylists. You may also be self-employed.

Future Job Market / Outlook

The future outlook for a food stylist will be fair over the next five years.

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• International Association of Culinary Professionals
• American Culinary Federation