Use Shallow Depth of Field

• This image shows just the hands and mug in focus.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Shallow depth of field refers to a narrow range of focus. Experiment with images, such as precisely focused latte foam with gently blurred surroundings, or catch steam rising from a cup in front of a blurred background. If the depth of field is shallow enough and the lighting and composition are done correctly, the image can be very compelling.
  
  

Employ Juxtaposition

• The coffee cup is in juxtaposition to the water.Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
  
  Juxtaposition refers to positioning two different elements together in a photograph for the purpose of comparison or contrast. Examples include an old building next to a new one, or a dish of ice cream next to a can marked "diet" soda. In a coffee shop you could pair things such as a full cup next to an empty one, or an empty table in the foreground with one that is occupied in the background. Subjects do not have to be exact opposites to create juxtaposition, but they should compete for attention and in doing so, draw attention to each other.
  
  

People

• People make wonderful candid photograph subjects.Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Getty Images
  
  People are excellent photographic subjects that fit in well in coffee shop photos. Try and make your shots candid and relaxed. Arrive with a friend or two and photograph them as they enjoy their beverages. Never photograph other customers without asking permission first. Photographs that contain recognizable images of people may require model releases. Editorial photos generally do not need a release, but images for sale do. If your photo is for anything other than your own use, obtaining a release is prudent.
  
  

Tell a Story

• A properly composed image can tell a story.Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Getty Images
  
  The 1,000 words that a picture is said to be worth can describe so much more than the colors and subjects or composition and layout. Tell a story with your photograph. Catch a barista in conversation with a customer as money exchanges hands, or capture an abandoned table littered with pastry crumbs, an empty mug and a crumpled napkin.
  
  

Macro

• Coffee bean macro photos are a coffee shop classic.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Macro refers to extreme close-up. If you have a good macro lens, coffee shops are full of interesting macro possibilities. Look for subjects such as coffee beans, mug detail or espresso foam.
  
  

Still Life

• A table setting is an example of a still life.Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
  
  Think of a still life as objects posing for a photograph. Bring some small items with you to arrange on your table next to your coffee, such as an agenda and pen, or a stack of bills and a calculator.