For a striking cooking photograph, focus on a vibrant, well-plated dish in a well-lit, clean environment. Highlight the dish's textures and colors using natural light or soft, diffused lighting to avoid harsh shadows. Use a shallow depth of field to blur the background, drawing attention to the food. Incorporate relevant props, like fresh ingredients or cooking utensils, to add context without cluttering the shot. Consider capturing action, like a sprinkle of herbs or a sauce pour, to add dynamism and storytelling to the image.