Do you have what it takes to launch a successful food blog? If you have the following skills it’s possible.

1. Simple Food Photography

You don’t need a degree in photography to start a food blog but it helps to know the basics. Your first investment should be a quality SLR camera to capture beautiful, delicious food photographs that you (and others) will want to share. Most cameras come with an operation manual and while it might seem time consuming, it will be essential –  great photographs rarely come from a camera set to automatic.

If you really want your photos to shine, photo editing tools are useful. Take a look at software, such as Photoshop, to hone your skills.

2. WordPress (Or Other Platform) Basics

If you don’t have the budget to hire a website designer your best option is to create your own. Website-building platforms like WordPress and Blogger make it (relatively) easy to set up a blog. Be prepared to embark on a steep learning curve as you take on the tutorials involved in getting your blog ‘publish’ ready.

3. Write Clear, Engaging Content

If you have no formal qualifications in writing for the web, it’s not impossible to get started. But it helps to have some knowledge on how writing for the internet is different to writing for print publications. A short, online course such as The Creative Writing Program or the Certificate of Freelance Writing with Australian Online Courses is the perfect way to ensure your content is both engaging and effective in building your audience.

4. Digital Marketing Know-How

Creating a successful food blog is more than writing creative content and sharing beautiful photographs, because no matter how awesome your blog – if no one knows about it, it doesn’t exist. This is where social media and digital marketing skills are a must. You can learn a lot from studying how other successful bloggers operate but to escalate your skillset consider a course in social media marketing with the Certificate of Social Media and Engagement with Australian Online Courses.

5. Network (Share the Food Love)

Networking is especially important for new bloggers. You can network with other bloggers by guest posting on their site. If you provide valuable content you’re more likely to be promoted. You can also connect through social media platforms, such as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to build your following.

6. Motivation and Self-Discipline

If you create a content strategy and set goals for your blog you’ll be more likely to stay motivated. Keep in mind that quality trumps quantity when it comes to content, as valuable information builds a regular following.

7. Creative, Original Ideas & Recipes

Depending on the type of food blog you create, posting unique recipes encourages shares on social media. You could enrol in a cooking class for a little inspiration. Check out the Certificate of Commercial Cooking Operations with Australian Online Courses.

If you’re writing restaurant, café and bar reviews, find a unique angle or niche market to capture attention. The review and food blogging space is busy, so you need to find ways to stand out.