Hey everyone, it’s Dani! Today, we’re covering how to select, cut, and style avocados to keep them fresh and vibrant for photos. Avocados can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get that perfect, creamy look every time. Let’s dive in!

Tip 1: Choose Firm, Not-so Ripe Avocados

When styling with avocados, choose firm ones:

• Unlike when making guacamole, super ripe avocados aren’t ideal for food styling since they’re more likely to brown and become mushy.
• Look for avocados that are firm to the touch and don’t give under pressure, ensuring cleaner cuts and slices. Firm, slightly underripe avocados hold their shape better and are easier to work with for beautiful presentation.

Tip 2: Avoid Cutting Until the Last Minute

To keep avocados looking fresh, don’t cut them until you’re ready to shoot:

• Avocados begin to brown quickly after slicing, so it’s best to wait until your scene is fully set before cutting.
• This reduces the risk of browning, keeping your avocado slices looking fresh and vibrant. Timing is everything with avocados, so prep them right before shooting to avoid discoloration.

Tip 3: Use Lemon Juice to Prevent Browning

Lemon juice is a simple and effective way to keep avocado slices green:

• Drizzle a bit of lemon juice over the cut sides of the avocado to slow down the browning process.
• This adds a slight shine while preserving the color, making avocados look even more appetizing. Lemon juice not only keeps the avocado from browning but also enhances its appearance with a fresh, glossy finish.

Tip 4: Try Fruit Fresh or Vodka for Extended Shoots

If you need avocados to stay fresh for an extended time:

• Fruit Fresh is a commercial product often used in canning that helps prevent browning. Mix a bit with water and dip the avocado slices in for a longer-lasting green color.
• Vodka can also work as a preservative for avocado slices, although it may affect the taste, so use this only if the avocados won’t be eaten. These methods are perfect for shoots that require extra time, helping to keep avocados looking fresh and photo-ready.

Tip 5: Master the Perfect Slice and Fan Technique

To create clean, even slices that come out beautifully:

• Use a sharp spoon to cut around the pit, twist the halves apart, and carefully remove the pit.
• For fanning, make thin, even cuts without slicing through the skin, then use a spoon to gently scoop out the slices and fan them on your set. This technique gives you uniform slices, making the avocado look polished and professional.

Thank you for joining today! I hope these tips help you style avocados like a pro. If there are other topics you’d like covered, please leave a comment below. Don’t forget to sign up for messenger alerts to stay updated on each training session—these time-sensitive videos will eventually move to our Patreon, so be sure to watch while they’re live!

See you tomorrow—happy styling!