I'm a food photography artist based in Charlotte, North Carolina. I recently shot a behind-the-scenes video of my creative process, and I wanted to share a deeper look into how I approach a photoshoot. From testing new gear to problem-solving on set, this session was all about experimenting with light, reflections, and motion.
The Vision & Setup
This shoot was inspired by a new toy—a 10-stop ND filter. I love the way it softens motion and was eager to explore its effects in a controlled studio setting. My gear for the day included my Sony A7 IV, two AD600 Pro strobes, and some makeshift snoots (more on that later). I also used my rolling monitor setup, which acts as a giant iPad on wheels, allowing me to see my live view in real-time.
The initial concept revolved around a black mirrored reflection, but as I soon discovered, the setup wasn’t giving me the look I envisioned. This is the beauty of photography—it’s a moving target, constantly evolving. Instead of forcing the reflection, I pivoted and leaned into a different approach.
The Lighting Process
Perspective is everything. What I see with my eyes isn’t always what the camera sees, so I took test shots to adjust angles and refine the lighting. I started with a red backdrop but ended up lowering it to create a seamless swoop effect—eliminating the horizon line for a cleaner look. However, as the shoot progressed, I realized the color wasn’t working for me, so I decided to convert the final images into black and white, a medium I adore but rarely get to explore in food photography.
To create a focused light effect, I used black aluminum foil (also known as photography foil) to craft my own snoots, securing them with blue tape. This method helped direct the light exactly where I wanted it, reducing unwanted spill and enhancing the shadows. I also adjusted the positioning of my lights—one angled slightly upward to highlight the bottom of the glass, and another providing a subtle glow on the side.
The Magic of Motion & Texture
The heart of this shoot was motion. I wanted to capture a dynamic splash while maintaining a crisp, refined look. To add texture, I mixed simple syrup into the water, making it slightly heavier to create a more dramatic effect. Dropping the lemon slice into the glass was a challenge—I needed to time the shot perfectly while ensuring my hand stayed out of the frame.
As I played with angles and settings, I noticed a red “V” reflection in the glass from the backdrop. Rather than fight it, I embraced the creative solution of switching to black and white, which ultimately elevated the image. The final composition emphasized the shadow as an essential part of the scene, filling the frame in a way that made the entire shot feel more intentional and artistic.
The Finishing Touches
The last step was making the glass glisten. I used a combination of glycerin, water, and photography spray to achieve a natural condensation effect. At one point, I even tried hairspray—sometimes unconventional techniques yield the best results! My goal was to create a “clean messy” look, a balance between controlled chaos and refined aesthetics.
Before wrapping up, I removed the camera from the tripod and switched to my 105mm macro lens for close-up shots. Free-shooting allowed me to capture more intimate details, giving the final series a well-rounded perspective.
The Final Result
This shoot was a reminder that photography is as much about problem-solving as it is about creativity. While my original vision didn’t go as planned, the final images exceeded my expectations. The ND filter smoothed out the motion beautifully, and the transition to black and white gave the series a timeless, high-impact feel. My favorite shot? The last one, where all the elements came together seamlessly.
I can’t wait to experiment more with black and white in my food photography. Let me know if you enjoyed this behind-the-scenes breakdown, and stay tuned for more creative explorations!
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