A Day in My Life as a Food Content Creator

People think being a food content creator means eating fancy meals all day. And while yes, there’s a lot of food involved (trust me, my camera roll is 90% close-ups of desserts), there’s so much more that goes into it. Behind every perfectly plated dish is a mix of strategy, lighting struggles, and at least one moment where I debate if I really need just one more angle. Luckily, most foods taste just as good cold. From ideating and filming to editing and engaging with my audience, here’s a real look at what my a day in my life as a food content creator.

Morning: Planning & Prepping

Before I even pick up my phone, I spend time planning. What restaurants am I featuring this month? Whats going on in the world? What kind of content do I need—short videos like Reels for Instagram, long form videos for YouTube, or high-quality photos for my website? I also check with my gut, asking: who is this for? Why does it matter? What action do I want my followers to take?

When I’m dining out, I research the restaurant, their menu, and any unique angles I can highlight. Food storytelling isn’t just about showing a meal—it’s about creating an experience for my audience.

Afternoon: Content Creation & Filming

This is where the magic (and sometimes the chaos) happens. When I’m at a restaurant, I have a strategy: capture wide shots of the space, get a chef or staff interview if possible (this really helps with captions), and then—of course—the food shots. I always film multiple angles, because once the food is eaten, there’s no going back! Capturing a mixture of photography and videography is a must in the current media climate we’re in.

When working with a restaurant it’s important to know their marketing goals for the quarter. Are they launching a new menu item? Trying to boost brunch sales? Showcasing their seasonal cocktails? Understanding their objectives helps me craft content that not only looks great but also aligns with their brand strategy.

That said, filming in a restaurant comes with its own set of challenges. Unlike a controlled home setup, I have to navigate dim lighting, background noise, and the hustle of a busy kitchen. Sometimes, I’m squeezing into a tight space to get the perfect angle or waiting for the sun to hit just right through the window. And let’s not forget the speed—chefs plate dishes quickly, and I have only seconds to capture that steam rising off a fresh dish before it disappears. It’s a delicate balance of respecting the restaurant’s flow while ensuring I get the high-quality shots I need.

Evening: Editing & Engagement

Once the content is filmed, the real work begins. I spend hours editing, adding captions, selecting the right audio, and making sure the final product is polished but still feels authentic. A 30-second video can take hours to edit—it’s all about making the visuals flow seamlessly and keeping the audience engaged.

But posting isn’t enough—I also spend time engaging with my community. Replying to comments, answering DMs, and staying active on different platforms are all part of the job. Building relationships is just as important as creating content, and I love connecting with people over a shared love of food.

The Reality of Food Content Creation

Is it fun? Absolutely. Is it work? 100%. Being a food content creator means wearing multiple hats: storyteller, videographer, editor, marketer, and community builder. But at the end of the day, I wouldn’t trade it for anything. There’s something special about sharing a meal—whether it’s through a screen or in person—and knowing that my content inspires others to try new flavors, explore new places, or simply find joy in food.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a plate of oysters waiting to be filmed.

Nami Kaze on Oahu, Hawaii