Food Photography - Elliot's at the Blackburn

Food seems to be the most misunderstood subject I have encountered in my professional career.   I know it can be hard to imagine, but there is no way to simply show up and snap an image of food and expect it to be passible–let alone a masterpiece.  So many elements must come together in order to have a successful photo shoot. A single recipe can take an entire day to have done right.  

Working with a competent chef, art director and food stylist really helps pull these various elements together.  Time is a factor, so working in sync with each member of a team is crucial.  In no other aspect of photography will you find such a demanding blend of art and science, mimicking the world of culinary arts.

Some sample shots viewed here.

Commercial Work - Mandarin Oriental, Boston

As 90% of my paid photographic work is architectural or commercial, it makes sense to have a bit about what I do in here.

Recently I had the opportunity to shoot the wonderful new Chef of Mandarin Oriental, Boston. After much planning, we decided the roof of the soon to open hotel was the best location, with the Boston skyline as a backdrop. We also made it down to Copley Square for a Farmer's Market. One of the stands at the market Sienna Farms, is actually a supplier of some of the fresh local fruits and vegetables the Chef will be using. Construction equipment was everywhere but we managed to pull off some fantastic shots of the Chef interacting with the farm owners and their produce. So while the weather did not cooperate, Chef Nicholas Boutin brought such fantastic personality and life to the images that the shoot overall was a great success. I very much look forward to dining at their signature restaurant, Asana as it opens later this month.

I also had a chance to photograph the exquisite Back Bay View and Corner Rooms at the hotel.

Check out my gallery here