gemini prompts for realistic food photos

21 Google Gemini Prompts for Realistic Food Photography

ByMohammed Rashid Posted on

Food photography is one of those things that looks simple until you try it. The lighting has to be right, the angle needs to make sense, and even the smallest details like a drip of sauce or a sprinkle of herbs can make or break the shot.

Google Gemini’s latest image model, Nano Banana Pro, handles food photography surprisingly well. It picks up on textures, steam, reflections, and those tiny details that make a dish look like something you’d actually want to eat.

To get started, head over to gemini.google.com or open the Gemini app, start a new conversation, and select Pro from the model options. Then paste in any of the prompts below. You can also upload a reference photo of a dish or table setting to guide the output closer to a specific look.

Here are 21 copy-and-paste prompts that cover a wide range of food photography styles, from rustic brunch spreads to moody fine dining shots.

1. Overhead Brunch Spread on a Farmhouse Table

This one gives you that classic flat lay brunch aesthetic you see all over Instagram. Think weekend vibes, natural light, and way too much food for one person.

Create a realistic overhead flat lay photo of a brunch spread on a rustic light oak farmhouse table. The spread includes a stack of fluffy blueberry pancakes with maple syrup dripping down the side, a bowl of fresh mixed berries, a small jar of honey with a wooden dipper, a plate of crispy bacon strips, two slices of avocado toast on sourdough with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes, and a cup of black coffee in a white ceramic mug. There are linen napkins in muted beige, a small vase with dried eucalyptus, and scattered crumbs on the table for realism. Shot from directly above with a 35mm lens. Soft, diffused natural morning light coming from a window to the left, casting gentle shadows. Warm, inviting color palette with earthy tones. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic overhead flat lay photo of a brunch spread on a rustic light oak farmhouse table. The spread includes a stack of fluffy blueberry pancakes with maple syrup dripping down the side, a bowl of fresh mixed berries, a small jar of honey with a wooden dipper, a plate of crispy bacon strips, two slices of avocado toast on sourdough with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes, and a cup of black coffee in a white ceramic mug. There are linen napkins in muted beige, a small vase with dried eucalyptus, and scattered crumbs on the table for realism. Shot from directly above with a 35mm lens. Soft, diffused natural morning light coming from a window to the left, casting gentle shadows. Warm, inviting color palette with earthy tones. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

2. Steaming Ramen Bowl with Chopsticks

Ramen is one of those dishes that photographs beautifully because of all the layers and textures. This prompt nails that cozy, late-night noodle shop feeling.

Create a realistic close-up photo of a large ceramic bowl of tonkotsu ramen on a dark wooden counter. The bowl is filled with rich, milky pork bone broth, thin curly noodles partially lifted by a pair of black chopsticks held by a hand entering the frame from the right, a soft-boiled egg sliced in half showing a jammy orange yolk, sliced chashu pork with caramelized edges, fresh green onion rings, a sheet of nori, and a small pile of corn kernels. Steam is visibly rising from the broth. The camera is at a 30-degree angle, slightly above the bowl, with a shallow depth of field focusing on the egg and noodles. Warm overhead pendant light with a dark, moody izakaya-style background showing blurred shelves and bottles. Rich, warm tones with deep shadows. Shot with a 50mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic close-up photo of a large ceramic bowl of tonkotsu ramen on a dark wooden counter. The bowl is filled with rich, milky pork bone broth, thin curly noodles partially lifted by a pair of black chopsticks held by a hand entering the frame from the right, a soft-boiled egg sliced in half showing a jammy orange yolk, sliced chashu pork with caramelized edges, fresh green onion rings, a sheet of nori, and a small pile of corn kernels. Steam is visibly rising from the broth. The camera is at a 30-degree angle, slightly above the bowl, with a shallow depth of field focusing on the egg and noodles. Warm overhead pendant light with a dark, moody izakaya-style background showing blurred shelves and bottles. Rich, warm tones with deep shadows. Shot with a 50mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

3. Italian Pasta Twirl on a Fork

This is one of those hero shots that food magazines love. The focus is entirely on that perfect fork twirl with everything else softly blurred behind it.

Create a realistic photo of a fork twirling spaghetti aglio e olio, captured mid-twist with strands of pasta elegantly wrapped around the tines. The fork is held by a hand just above a white rimmed ceramic plate that holds the remaining pasta tossed with golden garlic slices, red chili flakes, and fresh parsley. A few drops of olive oil glisten on the pasta surface. The camera is at table level, shooting slightly upward at the fork with a very shallow depth of field so only the fork and twirled pasta are sharp. The background shows a blurred rustic Italian trattoria setting with a checkered tablecloth, a glass of white wine, and a breadstick in a small ceramic holder. Warm, golden natural light from a side window. Shot with an 85mm lens, food editorial style. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of a fork twirling spaghetti aglio e olio, captured mid-twist with strands of pasta elegantly wrapped around the tines. The fork is held by a hand just above a white rimmed ceramic plate that holds the remaining pasta tossed with golden garlic slices, red chili flakes, and fresh parsley. A few drops of olive oil glisten on the pasta surface. The camera is at table level, shooting slightly upward at the fork with a very shallow depth of field so only the fork and twirled pasta are sharp. The background shows a blurred rustic Italian trattoria setting with a checkered tablecloth, a glass of white wine, and a breadstick in a small ceramic holder. Warm, golden natural light from a side window. Shot with an 85mm lens, food editorial style. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

4. Moody Dark Chocolate Cake Slice

Dark and moody food photography creates a completely different mood. This prompt is perfect for desserts where you want that rich, dramatic feel.

Create a realistic photo of a single slice of layered dark chocolate cake on a matte black ceramic plate. The cake has three moist layers with dark chocolate ganache between each, topped with a glossy ganache drip running down the side and a few fresh raspberries and a small gold leaf as garnish. A fork rests on the edge of the plate with a small bite already taken from the tip of the slice, showing the dense, fudgy interior. The surface is a dark slate countertop with cocoa powder lightly dusted around the plate. The camera is at a low angle, almost table level, shooting slightly upward. Dramatic side lighting from the left with deep shadows on the right creating a chiaroscuro effect. Dark, moody color palette with deep browns, blacks, and pops of red from the raspberries. Shot with a 90mm macro lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of a single slice of layered dark chocolate cake on a matte black ceramic plate. The cake has three moist layers with dark chocolate ganache between each, topped with a glossy ganache drip running down the side and a few fresh raspberries and a small gold leaf as garnish. A fork rests on the edge of the plate with a small bite already taken from the tip of the slice, showing the dense, fudgy interior. The surface is a dark slate countertop with cocoa powder lightly dusted around the plate. The camera is at a low angle, almost table level, shooting slightly upward. Dramatic side lighting from the left with deep shadows on the right creating a chiaroscuro effect. Dark, moody color palette with deep browns, blacks, and pops of red from the raspberries. Shot with a 90mm macro lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

5. Fresh Sushi Platter on a Bamboo Board

Sushi is all about precision and color. This prompt focuses on the clean, minimal presentation that makes sushi photography pop.

Create a realistic overhead photo of a sushi platter arranged on a rectangular bamboo serving board placed on a clean black stone surface. The platter includes six pieces of nigiri featuring salmon, tuna, shrimp, and yellowtail, along with an eight-piece California roll sliced to show the cross-section of avocado, crab, and cucumber. A small ceramic dish of soy sauce sits beside it with a dab of wasabi on the edge, along with thin slices of pickled ginger. A pair of dark wooden chopsticks rests diagonally across the corner of the board. The camera is directly overhead. Soft, even natural light with minimal shadows for a clean, editorial look. Cool, fresh color palette with vibrant pinks, oranges, and greens against the dark surface. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 1:1.

Create a realistic overhead photo of a sushi platter arranged on a rectangular bamboo serving board placed on a clean black stone surface. The platter includes six pieces of nigiri featuring salmon, tuna, shrimp, and yellowtail, along with an eight-piece California roll sliced to show the cross-section of avocado, crab, and cucumber. A small ceramic dish of soy sauce sits beside it with a dab of wasabi on the edge, along with thin slices of pickled ginger. A pair of dark wooden chopsticks rests diagonally across the corner of the board. The camera is directly overhead. Soft, even natural light with minimal shadows for a clean, editorial look. Cool, fresh color palette with vibrant pinks, oranges, and greens against the dark surface. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 1:1.

6. Rustic Sourdough Bread Being Sliced

There is something deeply satisfying about a freshly baked loaf being cut open. This prompt captures that exact moment with all the texture and warmth you would expect.

Create a realistic photo of a hand holding a serrated bread knife mid-slice through a round rustic sourdough loaf on a wooden cutting board. The crust is deeply scored with a beautiful ear and a rich golden-brown color with flour dusting. The interior crumb is visible where the slice is separating, showing large, open, airy holes. A few slices already cut sit fanned out beside the loaf with a small dish of salted butter and a butter knife nearby. The scene is set on a linen cloth draped over a dark wooden table. The camera is at a 45-degree angle from the side, focused on the cutting point. Warm, soft natural light from a window behind and to the left, creating a backlit glow through the bread’s airy crumb. Warm, rustic tones with golden highlights. Shot with a 50mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of a hand holding a serrated bread knife mid-slice through a round rustic sourdough loaf on a wooden cutting board. The crust is deeply scored with a beautiful ear and a rich golden-brown color with flour dusting. The interior crumb is visible where the slice is separating, showing large, open, airy holes. A few slices already cut sit fanned out beside the loaf with a small dish of salted butter and a butter knife nearby. The scene is set on a linen cloth draped over a dark wooden table. The camera is at a 45-degree angle from the side, focused on the cutting point. Warm, soft natural light from a window behind and to the left, creating a backlit glow through the bread's airy crumb. Warm, rustic tones with golden highlights. Shot with a 50mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

7. Colorful Smoothie Bowls Side by Side

Smoothie bowls are basically made for Instagram. This prompt gives you that bright, colorful, wellness-inspired shot that performs well on social media.

Create a realistic overhead photo of two smoothie bowls placed side by side on a white marble countertop. The left bowl is a vibrant deep purple acai blend topped with sliced banana, granola clusters, chia seeds, and a drizzle of honey. The right bowl is a bright pink dragon fruit blend topped with kiwi slices, shredded coconut, fresh blueberries, and cacao nibs. Both bowls are in smooth white ceramic dishes. A small wooden spoon rests in each bowl. Surrounding the bowls are scattered ingredients including loose granola, a few blueberries, and a half-cut passion fruit. The camera is directly overhead. Bright, clean natural light with soft shadows, giving it a fresh and airy feel. Vibrant, saturated color palette. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 1:1.

Create a realistic overhead photo of two smoothie bowls placed side by side on a white marble countertop. The left bowl is a vibrant deep purple acai blend topped with sliced banana, granola clusters, chia seeds, and a drizzle of honey. The right bowl is a bright pink dragon fruit blend topped with kiwi slices, shredded coconut, fresh blueberries, and cacao nibs. Both bowls are in smooth white ceramic dishes. A small wooden spoon rests in each bowl. Surrounding the bowls are scattered ingredients including loose granola, a few blueberries, and a half-cut passion fruit. The camera is directly overhead. Bright, clean natural light with soft shadows, giving it a fresh and airy feel. Vibrant, saturated color palette. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 1:1.

8. Burger with Melting Cheese and Dripping Sauce

A great burger shot needs to look messy in a controlled way. This prompt gets you that indulgent, craveable look with all the right details.

Create a realistic close-up photo of a gourmet smash burger on a sheet of brown parchment paper on a dark wooden tray. The burger has a toasted brioche bun, two thin smashed beef patties with crispy laced edges, melted American cheese oozing down the sides, caramelized onions, shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and a tangy special sauce visibly dripping from the bottom. A few sesame seeds are on the top bun. The burger is slightly compressed as if just pressed together, with the cheese pull visible between the patties. The camera is at table level, shooting straight on at the burger’s cross-section. Warm, directional light from the upper left highlighting the cheese melt and sauce drip. Rich, warm, slightly desaturated tones with a fast-food editorial vibe. Shot with a 50mm lens, shallow depth of field. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic close-up photo of a gourmet smash burger on a sheet of brown parchment paper on a dark wooden tray. The burger has a toasted brioche bun, two thin smashed beef patties with crispy laced edges, melted American cheese oozing down the sides, caramelized onions, shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and a tangy special sauce visibly dripping from the bottom. A few sesame seeds are on the top bun. The burger is slightly compressed as if just pressed together, with the cheese pull visible between the patties. The camera is at table level, shooting straight on at the burger's cross-section. Warm, directional light from the upper left highlighting the cheese melt and sauce drip. Rich, warm, slightly desaturated tones with a fast-food editorial vibe. Shot with a 50mm lens, shallow depth of field. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

9. Pour-Over Coffee in Morning Light

Coffee shots are a staple in food photography. This one focuses on that quiet morning ritual with beautiful light doing most of the work.

Create a realistic photo of a pour-over coffee setup on a light wooden kitchen counter near a window. A gooseneck kettle with a matte black finish is pouring a thin stream of hot water into a glass Chemex brewer with a paper filter, and the dark coffee is dripping down into the lower chamber. A white ceramic mug sits nearby, already half-filled with brewed coffee. There is a small digital scale under the Chemex showing numbers, a bag of specialty coffee beans with a minimalist label, and a few loose beans scattered on the counter. Soft, golden morning light streams in through the window from the right, casting long warm shadows across the counter. The camera is at counter level, slightly to the side, with a shallow depth of field focused on the pour. Warm, calm, lifestyle aesthetic with natural tones. Shot with a 50mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of a pour-over coffee setup on a light wooden kitchen counter near a window. A gooseneck kettle with a matte black finish is pouring a thin stream of hot water into a glass Chemex brewer with a paper filter, and the dark coffee is dripping down into the lower chamber. A white ceramic mug sits nearby, already half-filled with brewed coffee. There is a small digital scale under the Chemex showing numbers, a bag of specialty coffee beans with a minimalist label, and a few loose beans scattered on the counter. Soft, golden morning light streams in through the window from the right, casting long warm shadows across the counter. The camera is at counter level, slightly to the side, with a shallow depth of field focused on the pour. Warm, calm, lifestyle aesthetic with natural tones. Shot with a 50mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

10. Wood-Fired Pizza Fresh from the Oven

Pizza is one of those universally appealing subjects. This prompt goes for that artisan, wood-fired look with the charred crust and bubbling cheese everyone loves.

Create a realistic photo of a freshly baked Neapolitan margherita pizza on a round wooden pizza peel, just pulled from a wood-fired oven. The pizza has a puffy, charred, leopard-spotted crust with bright red San Marzano tomato sauce, melted and slightly bubbling fresh mozzarella, scattered fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil glistening on the surface. A pizza cutter with a wooden handle sits beside it, and one slice is being pulled away with a long cheese stretch visible. The background shows the blurred mouth of a brick pizza oven with glowing embers inside. The camera is at a 45-degree angle from slightly above. Warm, rustic lighting from the oven and overhead pendant lamp. Rich, appetizing color palette with reds, greens, and golden crust tones. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of a freshly baked Neapolitan margherita pizza on a round wooden pizza peel, just pulled from a wood-fired oven. The pizza has a puffy, charred, leopard-spotted crust with bright red San Marzano tomato sauce, melted and slightly bubbling fresh mozzarella, scattered fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil glistening on the surface. A pizza cutter with a wooden handle sits beside it, and one slice is being pulled away with a long cheese stretch visible. The background shows the blurred mouth of a brick pizza oven with glowing embers inside. The camera is at a 45-degree angle from slightly above. Warm, rustic lighting from the oven and overhead pendant lamp. Rich, appetizing color palette with reds, greens, and golden crust tones. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

11. Ice Cream Cone with a Drip

Ice cream shots need to look like they were captured at just the right moment before everything melts. This prompt focuses on that urgency and color.

Create a realistic photo of a hand holding a waffle cone with two scoops of ice cream, one strawberry pink and one pistachio green, with the strawberry scoop starting to melt and a single drip running down the side of the cone onto the fingers. The waffle cone has a deep golden-brown color with a crisscross pattern. A few crushed pistachios and a small strawberry slice sit on top of the scoops. The background is a blurred pastel-colored ice cream shop storefront with a striped awning on a bright summer day. The camera is at eye level, focused tightly on the cone and scoops with a shallow depth of field. Bright, warm sunlight from above and slightly behind, creating a soft glow around the melting ice cream. Cheerful, vibrant pastel color palette. Shot with an 85mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of a hand holding a waffle cone with two scoops of ice cream, one strawberry pink and one pistachio green, with the strawberry scoop starting to melt and a single drip running down the side of the cone onto the fingers. The waffle cone has a deep golden-brown color with a crisscross pattern. A few crushed pistachios and a small strawberry slice sit on top of the scoops. The background is a blurred pastel-colored ice cream shop storefront with a striped awning on a bright summer day. The camera is at eye level, focused tightly on the cone and scoops with a shallow depth of field. Bright, warm sunlight from above and slightly behind, creating a soft glow around the melting ice cream. Cheerful, vibrant pastel color palette. Shot with an 85mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

12. Charcuterie Board for a Dinner Party

Charcuterie boards are all about abundance and arrangement. This prompt gives you that beautiful spread that looks like it took hours to put together.

Create a realistic overhead photo of a large round wooden charcuterie board on a dark linen tablecloth. The board is overflowing with thinly sliced prosciutto, salami, and coppa arranged in rosettes and folds, alongside wedges of aged cheddar, brie with a slice cut out, and crumbled blue cheese. Scattered around are clusters of red and green grapes, dried apricots, fig halves showing their seedy interior, Marcona almonds, cornichons, olives, honeycomb with honey dripping off the edge, artisan crackers, and small breadsticks. Two small ceramic bowls hold grainy mustard and fig jam. A wine glass with red wine and a linen napkin sit at the edge of the frame. The camera is directly overhead. Warm, ambient candlelight mixed with soft natural light, creating a rich and inviting glow. Deep, warm, luxurious color palette. Shot with a 24mm lens. Use aspect ratio 1:1.

Create a realistic overhead photo of a large round wooden charcuterie board on a dark linen tablecloth. The board is overflowing with thinly sliced prosciutto, salami, and coppa arranged in rosettes and folds, alongside wedges of aged cheddar, brie with a slice cut out, and crumbled blue cheese. Scattered around are clusters of red and green grapes, dried apricots, fig halves showing their seedy interior, Marcona almonds, cornichons, olives, honeycomb with honey dripping off the edge, artisan crackers, and small breadsticks. Two small ceramic bowls hold grainy mustard and fig jam. A wine glass with red wine and a linen napkin sit at the edge of the frame. The camera is directly overhead. Warm, ambient candlelight mixed with soft natural light, creating a rich and inviting glow. Deep, warm, luxurious color palette. Shot with a 24mm lens. Use aspect ratio 1:1.

13. Tacos on a Street Food Tray

Street food photography has a raw, vibrant energy to it. This prompt captures that authentic taqueria vibe with all the toppings and mess.

Create a realistic photo of three soft corn tortilla tacos arranged on a metal tray lined with wax paper at a street food stand. The first taco is filled with carne asada topped with diced white onion and fresh cilantro. The second has al pastor with a thin slice of grilled pineapple on top. The third is carnitas with pickled red onion and a squeeze of lime. Beside the tacos are small plastic containers of green salsa verde and red habanero salsa, lime wedges, and a few radish slices. Some filling has spilled onto the tray for a realistic, lived-in look. The background is a blurred street scene with colorful signage and warm string lights. The camera is at a slight angle, just above table height. Warm, golden late afternoon light mixed with the glow of overhead bulbs. Vibrant, saturated street food aesthetic. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of three soft corn tortilla tacos arranged on a metal tray lined with wax paper at a street food stand. The first taco is filled with carne asada topped with diced white onion and fresh cilantro. The second has al pastor with a thin slice of grilled pineapple on top. The third is carnitas with pickled red onion and a squeeze of lime. Beside the tacos are small plastic containers of green salsa verde and red habanero salsa, lime wedges, and a few radish slices. Some filling has spilled onto the tray for a realistic, lived-in look. The background is a blurred street scene with colorful signage and warm string lights. The camera is at a slight angle, just above table height. Warm, golden late afternoon light mixed with the glow of overhead bulbs. Vibrant, saturated street food aesthetic. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

14. Matcha Latte Art from Above

Matcha has become its own visual category in food photography. This prompt nails that clean, minimal, slightly zen aesthetic.

Create a realistic overhead photo of a matcha latte in a wide, shallow white ceramic cup on a round wooden coaster placed on a clean light gray concrete countertop. The latte has a vivid green color with delicate white latte art in a fern leaf pattern on the surface. Beside the cup is a small bamboo matcha whisk, a ceramic matcha bowl with a dusting of bright green powder on the rim, and a tiny wooden spoon with matcha powder on it. A single green leaf from a small potted plant enters the frame from the upper corner. The camera is directly overhead. Soft, diffused natural light with very minimal shadows for a clean, calming feel. Muted, earthy color palette with the vibrant green matcha as the focal point. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 1:1.

Create a realistic overhead photo of a matcha latte in a wide, shallow white ceramic cup on a round wooden coaster placed on a clean light gray concrete countertop. The latte has a vivid green color with delicate white latte art in a fern leaf pattern on the surface. Beside the cup is a small bamboo matcha whisk, a ceramic matcha bowl with a dusting of bright green powder on the rim, and a tiny wooden spoon with matcha powder on it. A single green leaf from a small potted plant enters the frame from the upper corner. The camera is directly overhead. Soft, diffused natural light with very minimal shadows for a clean, calming feel. Muted, earthy color palette with the vibrant green matcha as the focal point. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 1:1.

15. Stacked Pancakes with Butter and Syrup Pour

Everyone loves a good pancake stack, especially when there is syrup being poured. This prompt captures that indulgent, mid-action moment.

Create a realistic photo of a tall stack of five thick, fluffy golden-brown pancakes on a round white ceramic plate. A pat of butter sits melting on top, and a small ceramic pitcher is caught mid-pour, with a thick stream of amber maple syrup cascading down the side of the stack and pooling on the plate. A few fresh blueberries and sliced strawberries are scattered on top and around the base of the stack. A fork and knife rest on the side of the plate. The setting is a bright kitchen table with a blurred window and green plants in the background. The camera is at table level, shooting slightly upward at the stack with a shallow depth of field focused on the syrup pour. Warm, bright morning light from the window behind. Golden, warm, cozy color palette. Shot with a 50mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of a tall stack of five thick, fluffy golden-brown pancakes on a round white ceramic plate. A pat of butter sits melting on top, and a small ceramic pitcher is caught mid-pour, with a thick stream of amber maple syrup cascading down the side of the stack and pooling on the plate. A few fresh blueberries and sliced strawberries are scattered on top and around the base of the stack. A fork and knife rest on the side of the plate. The setting is a bright kitchen table with a blurred window and green plants in the background. The camera is at table level, shooting slightly upward at the stack with a shallow depth of field focused on the syrup pour. Warm, bright morning light from the window behind. Golden, warm, cozy color palette. Shot with a 50mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

16. Mediterranean Salad in Harsh Sunlight

Not every food photo needs soft, diffused light. This prompt uses direct sunlight to create bold shadows and a summer feel that works really well for fresh salads.

Create a realistic photo of a large white ceramic bowl filled with a Mediterranean salad on a terracotta tile surface outdoors. The salad contains chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes halved to show the juicy interior, sliced cucumber, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, thin red onion rings, and a generous drizzle of olive oil with dried oregano visible. A piece of warm pita bread torn in half sits beside the bowl, along with a small dish of hummus with a swirl of olive oil and paprika on top. The camera is at a 45-degree angle from slightly above. Bright, direct midday sunlight casting hard, defined shadows on the surface, giving it a raw Mediterranean summer feel. Warm, sun-bleached color palette with pops of red and green. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of a large white ceramic bowl filled with a Mediterranean salad on a terracotta tile surface outdoors. The salad contains chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes halved to show the juicy interior, sliced cucumber, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, thin red onion rings, and a generous drizzle of olive oil with dried oregano visible. A piece of warm pita bread torn in half sits beside the bowl, along with a small dish of hummus with a swirl of olive oil and paprika on top. The camera is at a 45-degree angle from slightly above. Bright, direct midday sunlight casting hard, defined shadows on the surface, giving it a raw Mediterranean summer feel. Warm, sun-bleached color palette with pops of red and green. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

17. Freshly Frosted Cupcakes on a Cooling Rack

Cupcakes are a classic subject for food photography. This prompt goes for that just-made, homemade baking aesthetic with messy charm.

Create a realistic photo of six freshly frosted cupcakes arranged on a wire cooling rack on a flour-dusted marble countertop. Each cupcake has a different pastel-colored buttercream swirl, including soft pink, lavender, mint green, pale yellow, baby blue, and peach. The frosting is piped in tall, textured swirls with a few rainbow sprinkles on each. One cupcake has a bite taken out of it, showing the fluffy vanilla interior. A piping bag with leftover frosting, a small bowl of sprinkles, and a whisk sit nearby, creating a messy but charming baking scene. The camera is at counter level, shooting slightly upward. Soft, warm natural light from a kitchen window on the left. Light, airy, cheerful color palette with pastel tones. Shot with a 50mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of six freshly frosted cupcakes arranged on a wire cooling rack on a flour-dusted marble countertop. Each cupcake has a different pastel-colored buttercream swirl, including soft pink, lavender, mint green, pale yellow, baby blue, and peach. The frosting is piped in tall, textured swirls with a few rainbow sprinkles on each. One cupcake has a bite taken out of it, showing the fluffy vanilla interior. A piping bag with leftover frosting, a small bowl of sprinkles, and a whisk sit nearby, creating a messy but charming baking scene. The camera is at counter level, shooting slightly upward. Soft, warm natural light from a kitchen window on the left. Light, airy, cheerful color palette with pastel tones. Shot with a 50mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

18. Whiskey Glass with a Cheese Pairing

This is more of a lifestyle food shot. It pairs a drink with food in a moody, editorial setting that would work great for a restaurant or bar’s social media.

Create a realistic photo of a crystal-cut old fashioned glass filled with two fingers of amber whiskey and a single large ice sphere, placed on a dark leather coaster on a polished dark walnut bar top. Beside the glass is a small slate board with three cubes of aged gouda, a few walnuts, a small cluster of dark grapes, and a thin slice of dried pear. A bottle of whiskey with a dark label sits blurred in the background alongside a warm, dim bar light. The camera is at table level, shooting straight on with a shallow depth of field focused on the glass and ice sphere. Warm, moody, low-key lighting with amber reflections in the glass and deep shadows. Rich, dark, sophisticated color palette. Shot with an 85mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of a crystal-cut old fashioned glass filled with two fingers of amber whiskey and a single large ice sphere, placed on a dark leather coaster on a polished dark walnut bar top. Beside the glass is a small slate board with three cubes of aged gouda, a few walnuts, a small cluster of dark grapes, and a thin slice of dried pear. A bottle of whiskey with a dark label sits blurred in the background alongside a warm, dim bar light. The camera is at table level, shooting straight on with a shallow depth of field focused on the glass and ice sphere. Warm, moody, low-key lighting with amber reflections in the glass and deep shadows. Rich, dark, sophisticated color palette. Shot with an 85mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

19. Hand Dipping a Chip into Guacamole

Action shots in food photography add life to the image. This prompt captures that satisfying moment of a chip about to meet the dip.

Create a realistic photo of a hand dipping a thick, triangular tortilla chip into a stone molcajete bowl filled with chunky fresh guacamole. The guacamole has visible pieces of diced tomato, red onion, cilantro leaves, and a squeeze of lime juice glistening on top. The chip is half-submerged, scooping up a generous portion. Around the molcajete on a rustic wooden table are more tortilla chips in a woven basket, a small bowl of pico de gallo, lime halves, and a bottle of Mexican beer with condensation on the glass. The camera is at a slight angle above, focused on the dipping action with a shallow depth of field. Warm, natural light from a window with a casual, relaxed cantina atmosphere in the blurred background. Vibrant, warm color palette with greens, reds, and golden tones. Shot with a 50mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of a hand dipping a thick, triangular tortilla chip into a stone molcajete bowl filled with chunky fresh guacamole. The guacamole has visible pieces of diced tomato, red onion, cilantro leaves, and a squeeze of lime juice glistening on top. The chip is half-submerged, scooping up a generous portion. Around the molcajete on a rustic wooden table are more tortilla chips in a woven basket, a small bowl of pico de gallo, lime halves, and a bottle of Mexican beer with condensation on the glass. The camera is at a slight angle above, focused on the dipping action with a shallow depth of field. Warm, natural light from a window with a casual, relaxed cantina atmosphere in the blurred background. Vibrant, warm color palette with greens, reds, and golden tones. Shot with a 50mm lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

20. Fine Dining Plated Dessert

Fine dining photography is all about precision, negative space, and dramatic lighting. This prompt creates that Michelin-star presentation style.

Create a realistic photo of an elegant plated dessert on a large, round, matte white fine dining plate on a dark charcoal linen tablecloth. The dessert is a dark chocolate fondant with a molten center oozing out from where a spoon has broken into it, accompanied by a quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream with visible specks, a thin tuile cookie standing upright, a smear of raspberry coulis painted across the plate with a spoon, and three small dots of crème anglaise. A few edible gold flakes and a single mint leaf add final touches. The camera is at a low angle, slightly above table level, with a shallow depth of field focused on the broken fondant and molten center. Dramatic, moody side lighting from the right, casting soft shadows and highlighting the glossy textures. Dark, elegant color palette with deep browns, whites, and ruby red. Shot with a 90mm macro lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

Create a realistic photo of an elegant plated dessert on a large, round, matte white fine dining plate on a dark charcoal linen tablecloth. The dessert is a dark chocolate fondant with a molten center oozing out from where a spoon has broken into it, accompanied by a quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream with visible specks, a thin tuile cookie standing upright, a smear of raspberry coulis painted across the plate with a spoon, and three small dots of crème anglaise. A few edible gold flakes and a single mint leaf add final touches. The camera is at a low angle, slightly above table level, with a shallow depth of field focused on the broken fondant and molten center. Dramatic, moody side lighting from the right, casting soft shadows and highlighting the glossy textures. Dark, elegant color palette with deep browns, whites, and ruby red. Shot with a 90mm macro lens. Use aspect ratio 4:5.

21. Farmers Market Fruit Display

This last one is less about a single dish and more about the raw beauty of fresh ingredients. Farmers market shots work great as blog headers or opening images for recipe posts.

Create a realistic photo of a vibrant farmers market fruit stand display shot at eye level. Wooden crates and wicker baskets are stacked and arranged on a rustic table, overflowing with fresh seasonal produce including bright red strawberries, golden peaches with a soft fuzz visible, deep purple figs split open to show their pink interior, bunches of green and red grapes, plump blackberries, and stacks of ripe lemons. Small handwritten price tags on brown kraft paper are clipped to the crates. The vendor’s hands are visible in the background arranging a basket. The camera is at eye level, focused on the front row of fruit with a shallow depth of field that softly blurs the back rows and the market activity behind. Warm, golden late morning sunlight filtering through a canvas market canopy. Rich, natural, vibrant color palette. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 16:9.

Create a realistic photo of a vibrant farmers market fruit stand display shot at eye level. Wooden crates and wicker baskets are stacked and arranged on a rustic table, overflowing with fresh seasonal produce including bright red strawberries, golden peaches with a soft fuzz visible, deep purple figs split open to show their pink interior, bunches of green and red grapes, plump blackberries, and stacks of ripe lemons. Small handwritten price tags on brown kraft paper are clipped to the crates. The vendor's hands are visible in the background arranging a basket. The camera is at eye level, focused on the front row of fruit with a shallow depth of field that softly blurs the back rows and the market activity behind. Warm, golden late morning sunlight filtering through a canvas market canopy. Rich, natural, vibrant color palette. Shot with a 35mm lens. Use aspect ratio 16:9.

These prompts work best when you select the Pro model in Gemini. The more specific you are about textures, lighting direction, and small imperfections like crumbs, drips, or steam, the more realistic the output will be.

If you want to match a specific style or plating, try uploading a reference image alongside your prompt. Gemini’s Nano Banana Pro model responds well to visual references and will adjust the composition and mood accordingly.

I'm Rashid, an avid AI and tech enthusiast with a newfound passion for AI artistry. Through Imagine with Rashid, I explore the burgeoning world of digital creativity, sharing my adventures and insights at the intersection of technology and art.

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