2. Each dish requires prior research.

Stylists should be informed in advance not only about what they will have to prepare but also about what other factors may influence the appearance or outcome of the dishes. For example, if the film has a historical setting, if it’s fantasy or science fiction, or if the dish is traditional to a certain geographical area and has a specific way of being prepared or presented, these things need to be noted.

“In front of a camera, everything has meaning, including food,” says culinary stylist Marta Cárdenas. “We have to have an art director’s mentality, look at pictures, photographs, and old cooking magazines to find inspiration.”