In this powerful and practical interview, we sit down with commercial food photographer Yessica Duque to talk about building a thriving photography business, mastering your craft and the role tethering plays in delivering high-end professional work. Yessica shares how she got started, what shaped her creative voice, and the tools and techniques she relies on when shooting for major brands.
We dive into workflow, branding, pricing, client relationships, mentorship, and the mindset required to grow as a photographer today. Whether you’re just starting out or already working professionally, this conversation is filled with actionable insights and industry wisdom that will sharpen your skills and inspire your next chapter.
HOW TO BUILD YOUR CAREER AS A FOOD PHOTOGRAPHER
There’s something incredibly grounding about hearing from a photographer who has built their career with intention – one project, one lesson, and one creative breakthrough at a time. In this episode, we talk with Yessica Duque, a commercial food photographer whose work blends technical precision, artistic depth, and a true passion for storytelling. She takes us back to the beginning of her journey, sharing what drew her into photography and how she entered the commercial world with curiosity, courage, and an eagerness to keep learning.
A thriving photography career isn’t built on skill alone, so we dive into the business side: how Yessica built her brand, found her clients, and learned to balance creative vision with client expectations without losing her artistic identity. She shares honest advice on pricing, standing out in a competitive industry, and what most photographers get wrong when presenting themselves professionally.
By the end of the episode, you’ll feel deeply inspired by her resilience, her generosity, and the lessons she’s learned from challenges, burnout, and moments of reinvention.
WHAT YOU’LL TAKE AWAY FROM THIS EPISODE:
Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:
- How Yessica began her food photography career and what shaped her early growth
- What her commercial workflow looks like from planning to execution
- Why tethering is a game-changer for professional shoots
- Her favourite tools for consistent, high-quality results
- How she built her brand and attracts new clients
- How to balance creativity with client needs
- Pricing insights for photographers wanting to level up
- The most common mistakes beginners make
- How to stay motivated and navigate challenges in the industry