Flash Photography: Bringing Back the Bold
Why it works: Flash photography adds drama and texture, making dishes appear more tactile and crave‑worthy. It’s especially effective for dark, moody interiors and for highlighting glossy sauces, crispy edges, and sparkling beverages.
Data hook: Instagram posts that use high‑contrast flash photography see, on average, 30% more engagement than those with flat, evenly lit images. This is because the bold visual style stops the scroll and encourages longer viewing times.
How Perth venues can adopt it: Work with a photographer who understands how to balance flash with ambient light to avoid harsh reflections. The goal is to keep the food looking natural yet elevated—perfect for your website hero, menu thumbnails, and social‑media carousels.
”Messy” Plating: The Art of Authenticity
Gone are the days of perfectly symmetrical, sterile plating. The “messy” trend embraces intentional imperfection—sauces drizzled off‑centre, herbs scattered casually, crumbs left on the board. This style tells a story of handmade, approachable food that’s ready to be enjoyed.
Why it works: Today’s diners crave authenticity. A “messy” plate feels real, unfiltered, and trustworthy. It suggests the dish was just prepared, not staged for hours, which can increase perceived freshness and quality.
Local example: Several Perth venues in Northbridge and Fremantle have already adopted this style for their social‑media feeds, reporting higher click‑through rates to their online menus and an increase in customer comments praising the “real” look of their food.
Implementing “messy” plating: Collaborate with your chef and photographer to design plates that look casually composed but still photogenic. Use natural props (wooden boards, linen napkins, rustic cutlery) to enhance the laid‑back vibe. Remember, “messy” doesn’t mean sloppy—every element should still feel intentional.
Video‑First Content: Beyond Static Images
Short‑form video is no longer optional for hospitality marketing. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are where potential customers discover new places to eat. In 2025, video‑first content—created specifically for vertical, sound‑on viewing—will be the most effective way to showcase your venue’s atmosphere, dishes, and personality.
Why it works: Video captures motion, sound, and emotion in a way photos can’t. The sizzle of a steak, the pull of melted cheese, the steam rising from a fresh bowl—these sensory cues trigger appetite and urgency.
Data hook: According to recent social‑media studies, video posts generate 48% more views and twice the engagement of image‑only posts. For restaurants, that translates directly into higher profile visits and more website clicks.
How to integrate video into your digital presence: Start with simple, behind‑the‑scenes clips of your kitchen, quick plating tutorials, or slow‑mo shots of your signature dish being served. Embed these videos on your website’s homepage and menu pages to keep visitors engaged longer. If your site isn’t optimised for video playback, consider a Perth restaurant website redesign that prioritises media performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bringing It All Together: A Cohesive Visual Strategy
Adopting one trend is good; combining them is powerful. Imagine a flash‑lit hero image of a “messily” plated pasta, paired with a short video of the chef tossing it in the pan. That kind of multi‑format content covers every touchpoint—from your website to Google Business Profile to social feeds.
The key is consistency. Your visual identity should feel recognisable whether a customer sees a static photo on UberEats, a video on Instagram, or a gallery on your own site. That’s where a photographer who also understands web development becomes a unique advantage: they can ensure your images are not only stunning but also technically optimised for fast loading, SEO, and cross‑platform compatibility.
Want to dive deeper? Learn how professional photography impacts your bottom line in Eat With Your Eyes: The ROI of Professional Food Photography for Perth Venues, and discover why fast-loading images are critical for conversions in Speed Kills (Competition): Why Fast Websites Get More Bookings.
Ready to Update Your Visuals for 2025?
Staying ahead of visual trends isn’t about chasing every fad—it’s about choosing the styles that align with your brand and executing them professionally. If your current imagery feels dated or isn’t driving the engagement you want, it might be time for a refresh.
We help Perth hospitality venues create visually compelling, performance‑driven content. From food photography shoots that capture the latest trends to website builds that make your visuals load instantly, we handle both the art and the code.
Ready to elevate your visual presence? Explore our Perth food photography packages or request a free visual audit to see how your current images and website stack up against 2025’s trends.