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Kelly Upson

Boston MA, USA
(617) 697-0281(617) 697-0281

I have been working as a food stylist for 17 years. I'm based in Boston, but travel throughout the country for both local and national clients.

My work ranges from print advertising, packaging, restaurant menus, product recipes to film and satellite media tours.

My background as a photographer helps me to see things from the photographers perspective.


How long have you been a food stylist? I have been a food stylist for 17 years

Who are some of your more recognizable clients? Keurig, Ocean Spray, Panera, Uno Restaurants, Smirnoff, Legal Seafoods, Dunkin Donuts, Hood, Au Bon Pain, Weight Watchers

What did you do before you were a stylist? I was a photographer

What initially attracted you to food styling? I love working with my hands, cooking, photography and design and the process of combining those elements to create a beautiful image.

How did you start your career as a food stylist? I had worked in a few photography studios and was always interested in watching the food stylists in the kitchen. One day during a photo shoot the food stylist cut himself and had to go to the emergency room. The photographer asked me to step in and finish the job! I was hooked.

What do you like best about being a food stylist? I like that each day is different and each product brings new challenges. I love that I have a career that is hands-on and allows me to be creative, problem solve and work with a creative team. There's never a dull moment.

Who are some of your favorite food photographers?  These are a few whose work I admire and would like to work with some day. Matthew Klein, Francesco Tonelli, Stephen Hamilton, Lisa Adams, Leigh Beisch

Do you have a specialty? Most of my work is advertising, packaging, restaurants and recipe shots.

What's the key to being a good stylist? Patience, creativity, good problem solving skills and working well with others as a team.