Food Photography | For an Effective Visual Communication

Photography is a visual language and mastering it enables an effective communication of a brand's message.

Developing visual language fluency is the key to reaching people with a compelling message.

Some brands use the same visual language wherever they broadcast their message; while others mix and adapt their visual language based on the media. Overall, let's see what is the message intent through different examples.

For demonstration purposes, the same subject matter -an orange- is represented in various ways to illustrate each technique.

1.Approachable

The idea is to create an environment that feels familiar and communicates from that place that is welcoming, reassuring and inviting.

Here, the vibrant orange sits nestled amongst a colourful array of citrus fruits, enticing you to reach out and pluck it from the display. The presentation emulates a real-life situation - it could be someone's home. The orange and fruits are shown in a way that goes beyond their edible nature, they double as ornamental elements. The purposeful lifestyle display wants the viewer to be inspired and eventually reproduce it similarly.

The intent is to make it approachable yet aspirational and trigger that emotion and desire.

Lifestyle photography has a similar approach and effect. The human presence helps the viewer relate to the situation presented and connect to the product.

2. High value

The concept is to showcase the product in such a way that it is perceived as valuable. The product does not need to be pricey -though it can be.

Compared with the first photo, this image and the feeling it triggers, are starkly different. The orange is singled out as the main focus and depicted in a bold, highly produced manner with a sharp rendering. The orange is out of context and stands on its own. The fruit is objectified, almost glorified. The intent is to perceive the high value of the product and call on the rational mind of the viewer. This photographic style is a typical advertisement look. Here, the value perception is communicated in different ways: The green leaves and water droplets want to convey freshness associated with premium quality; while the background colour reinforces and matches the orange to express energy, rejuvenation and vitality also associated with the vitamin C contained in the fruit. These few elements help emphasise the health benefits and, therefore the product's value.

3. Differentiator

The idea is to point out the product's specificity and make it front and centre.

Here, the orange is observed through a spyglass that reveals a new level of information and details. From a general view and easily recognisable product, the perspective shifts to a very tight focus that highlights the attributes and characteristics. The immersive experience almost feels abstract. The intent is to bring the focus to a particular feature or component. This approach works well to support educational content. The velvety texture of the orange segment or the juicy vesicles -the orange pulp- both offer an unusual closeup view of an otherwise common fruit and aim to trigger curiosity, interest and a shift of perception in the viewer's mind. It is best used to underline your point of difference from similar products or the specificity, and uniqueness of your product itself. It can also help position your brand as an authority by demonstrating your level of knowledge.

These are some ways photography can help you communicate visually with intent. With visual communication, it is important to know your message and target audience, so you can use the best-suited language at your disposal. Just like a presentation aims to persuade an audience using a series of arguments, your visual assets should span through many languages for an effective reach and connection with your audience.

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Food And Drink Photography | The Benefits of Using Motion

In today's fast-paced digital world, where attention span is fleeting and competition is fierce, capturing and holding the interest of your audience has never been more critical. As visual content continues to dominate the online space, it is increasingly evident that incorporating motion into your visual assets is essential. First, let's see where it best fits and second, the benefits of having motion as part of your product photography assets.

The media

Unlike photos that can be used both in digital and print media, motion is a purely digital asset. Nonetheless, the range of media where motion can support your brand message is wide. From an interactive welcome feature on your website, an attention-grabbing advertisement, or a scroll-stopping social media post, motion can take different shapes and seamlessly integrate with the rest of your visual assets.

Engagement

One of the most substantial advantages of incorporating motion is its ability to captivate and engage your audience on a deeper level. Motion has the incredible power to sustain attention and create a lasting impact. When we introduce movement, whether, through a captivating video or a simple animation, we tap into the innate human curiosity that craves dynamic and interactive experiences. Our brains are hardwired to notice movement, and by leveraging this human tendency, we can effectively hold the viewer's attention for a longer duration.

Educational

Incorporating motion into your visual assets is a good way to enhance the user experience. By introducing elements of motion, you can create interactive and visually captivating content for your audience, enabling them to immerse themselves in the content. Motion serves as a powerful tool for illustrating and educating users on how to use your product, facilitating a better understanding of the features or process. Indeed, 72% of people prefer to use video to learn about a product or service. (Source, 2019)

Brand’s Voice

Like photographic assets, motion helps set your brand's voice and can highlight and reinforce your brand's values. It may be playful stop-motion or GIFs that give a sense of lightness and liveliness to your brand or long-form lifestyle videos that add an inspirational factor to your brand. The style or type of motion should match your brand identity.

Storytelling

Beyond the attention-grabbing, educational aspects and the brand's voice setting, motion also enables storytelling in its own way. Through the artful use of video, animation can convey emotions and narratives. Moving visuals, like still photos can evoke emotions, driving viewers to connect with your brand and message. By harnessing the impact of motion in your visual assets, you can effectively communicate your story, making it more memorable and relatable for your audience.

The Results

In a more pragmatic view, the statistics show that 90% say video has helped them generate leads and 87% say it has helped them increase sales. (source)

And if these statistics are not persuasive enough, 89% of people say watching a video has convinced them to buy a product or service. (source)

In a crowded digital landscape, standing out from the competition is crucial. Motion in your visual assets provides you with a distinct advantage by creating a unique and impactful brand identity. The use of motion sets you apart, leaving a lasting impression on your audience. By embracing motion, you elevate your brand image and demonstrate your commitment to creativity while strengthening the connection with your audience.

✺

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Invest in Professional Photography Services for Brand Cohesiveness

Professional photography services are a great way to ensure brand cohesiveness no matter what type of business you are in. With an expert behind the lens, you will get access to years of experience that guarantees high-quality images, which will in turn boost your brand engagement online. Whether you are creating content for your website or looking to use the images in other marketing projects, investing in professional photography services can be invaluable.

In this blog post courtesy of Viviane Perenyi, we will look at some of the benefits of investing in professional photography services for your brand.

You Can Ensure Brand Cohesiveness

When you invest in professional photography services, you can ensure that all content produced is cohesive with the look and feel of your brand. Professional photographers have an eye for detail and will be able to capture the essence of your brand through photos that will help tell your story. They will also be able to create images that match the vibe of your business so that all visuals remain consistent with what you want to project.

Working with a Pro Saves You Time

When you work with a professional photographer, you save yourself time from having to take your own photos or searching online for stock photos that may not accurately portray what you are looking for. Professional photographers understand the importance of creating quality content on tight deadlines and will be able to provide you with finished images quickly so that you can focus on other things. They may also offer other services, such as professional photo editing, which will save you time and money.

Elevate Your Online Presence

Having high-quality pictures on your website or social media profiles can enhance your online presence and make it more appealing to potential customers. Professionally-taken pictures will show off the best aspects of your business while providing viewers with an image they can connect with when exploring different products or services offered by your company. Quality visuals can help attract more visitors as well as increase conversions when used on sales pages or product listings.

Professional Photos Enhance Your Reputation

High-quality imagery speaks volumes about any business’s reputation. It shows that you care about customer experience and want them to have a positive experience when engaging with any aspect of your brand. This type of professionalism leads people to trust what they see from you, which encourages them to purchase items from your store or take advantage of any services offered by your company, leading to increased sales down the line.

Use The Quality Finished Images For Different Marketing Projects

Adobe Express is an awesome tool that allows even those without professional design experience to create beautiful marketing materials. With the permission of your photographer, you can turn your finished images into social media posts or printed materials that can help you spread the word about your products or services. Here are just a few of the projects you can make with Adobe Express:

• Design a professional banner for LinkedIn and show potential employers what you’re all about. Make sure the finished banner is uncluttered and easy to read for maximum effectiveness.

• Make a brochure for your business that showcases your products. This is an excellent way to garner sales! It’s also helpful when your business is represented at a networking event.

• Create a gorgeous slideshow that showcases your products. This is perfect for a business website since it allows you to show off new items or services quickly. With Adobe’s tools, you can put together a stunning slideshow in no time.

• Have an Instagram shop? Make an eye-catching post with a gorgeous product image and clear text. You can customize your post using brand colours or your logo so that followers know immediately that it’s you.

Investing in professional photography services is one way your business can ensure brand cohesion, save time, enhance its online presence, and boost its reputation. With an expert photographer at your side, you can take your business to the next level and build engagement with your audience through quality imagery. No matter what your brand goals are, professional photos can help you bring them to life.

UPDATE: Giveaway is closed and winner picked. Thank you !

How to Budget for a Product Photography Shoot | A Guide for Beauty Businesses

You are in that preparatory phase, planning all that needs to be done to put the words out about your new products. Part of that plan includes product photography for your content planning. Yet you are unsure how to evaluate and budget for a photoshoot. It may be your first time and unless you have been given or you have defined a fixed budget, there are chances you may wonder how much should you budget for a photoshoot. And the short answer is prices vary greatly depending on your needs and requirements and the photographer's experience. And asking potential photographers for quotes may get you prices as generic as your request.

So before jumping right into the content creation mode, you have to consider the following elements that can affect your budget. Even if they may not all relate to your needs, let’s talk about all that goes into producing your photos and how it impacts pricing and by correlation your budget.

Production

• Model

  Do you want to feature your product(s) with the warming presence of a model? Or do you want to focus on showing your product(s) and packaging by themselves? There is no right or wrong way, only how you want to show your brand and want it to be perceived. Adding model(s) is often a good idea to help customers better relate to the products. It helps trigger a connection to the product thanks to the human presence. A model can have an aspiration and inspiration effect on the viewer. A model is like a reference that helps gauge the product: The shade may look darker or lighter once displayed on a complexion or hand-holding a product helps evaluate its size. Featuring a model with your product is also a way to give a face to your brand and connect with your target audience. All these advantages come with a price and opting for a model will add to your product-only budget. 

• Location

  Are you planning to photograph your products indoors (in a photo studio or specific location) or outdoors? If you choose to shoot indoors, there is more control over the environment, and the photo shoot will not be affected by weather conditions. The cost of the studio will vary based on the location, equipment, and services provided. Alternatively, shooting outdoors is more cost-effective, as long as there is no permit request and associated fee for the public space. You can also use natural elements around you as props and background to enhance your product photography.

• Makeup artist and stylist

  I always recommend at least a makeup artist on set, even when the model(s) is supposed to have a natural look. The skin preparation of a model can be overlooked, but the visual result makes a difference. A stylist is also an option to consider if you need specific props or wardrobe pieces. The stylist not only sources these items but will style them on set. Both makeup artists and stylists, are important pieces of the puzzle depending on the creative outcome you want to achieve.

• Props

  Props can be important accessories that support your visual brand story. You can either source the props yourself or enlist the services of a stylist who has expertise in finding the appropriate items and styling them on set. Props can add that extra touch to your product photography, elevating the overall quality and reinforcing your brand's message. However, it's important to ensure that the props don't distract from the product itself, but rather enhance its value. 

Licensing

• Visuals

  It is necessary to have an idea about how many images or stop-motion/video you need and their purpose. Creating a handful of images is not the same as producing a whole bank of images. So you may want to take some time to define your needs and think about the objective of each photo and its versatility.

• Usage

  Where do you plan to use the visuals? Do you intend to focus on the online space/internet? Or do you want to print them? The same visual does not have the same reach if displayed, let's say, on your website only, in all your online marketing, or on a billboard. The impact is different and defines the value attributed to the content.

• Time frame

  You may have more return on investment from a visual that performs well over five years than a year. Once more, the value of the image is related to its impact. While it is common for some business owners to think they will use the same image forever, the truth is unlikely. Do you want your brand to be represented the same way in 2 or 5 year-time? To stay relevant with your audience and keep things fresh, you will probably need to renew your visual content before then.

Those are some of the main elements to consider when budgeting for your product photography photoshoot. The choice is yours for each of these components that will ultimately impact your budget. When requesting a quote, having a clear idea about your requirements will help you get better and more relevant pricing. Once you have defined a budget bracket that includes your needs, you are all set to find and a creative partner to help you portray your brand and execute your vision.

Food Product Photography | Storytelling

Instead of focusing on the techniques of using light, props, and angles to tell a story within a frame, let's consider the reasons for creating such a story in the first place.

If you have a food product and your product images accurately depict it, why include additional photos of the product in a setting? The reason is simple: viewers are more likely to remember images that show the product in a lifestyle or styled presentation. The initial product image gives the viewer an idea of what to expect, while the additional images make them want to try the product. The intent of these images is different - they may show an example of a dish that the viewer wants to try and cook, which can inspire them to purchase the product.

The impact of the storytelling image is twofold. It influences the viewer and reinforces the brand's identity.

Emotion

Visual storytelling is a powerful tool that transcends language barriers and captures a moment in time. It can be a social and friendly gathering, a nourishing afternoon break with the kids or an indulging solo midnight snack. The purpose is to invite and connect the viewer with that moment and to become part of the story. They may be familiar with the situation or inspired to get to that moment. A compelling visual narrative always aims to engage a range of emotions in the viewer (curiosity, interest...). And this emotional connection that lingers long after the images fade has the power to stimulate memories.

Playing with different creative levers, like photographic components such as light, colours and composition and styling with carefully chosen props and strategically placed ingredients cement the narrative in the viewer's mind.

The photo illustrating this post could be for a brand of crackers or savoury dips that expects to appeal to and connect with the viewer by creating an inviting setting with a sense of place. 

Brand identity

The styled or lifestyle images of the product are an opportunity to infuse the brand's identity in the message. These images go beyond the standard product images and reflect the values and essence of the brand. For example, they may highlight the use of fresh and organic ingredients or the convenience of the packaging for busy individuals on the go. 

The visual narrative aims to invite the viewer into the brand's world and resonate with its target audience. It allows brands to communicate their unique story in a way that is memorable, relatable, and deeply impactful. Brands can forge a meaningful connection, leaving a lasting impression to remain recognisable.

Ritz Crackers are a good example of visual storytelling and brand identity. They visually tell mini-stories that evoke moments of different styles of gatherings with a series of creative crackers with various toppings. The result is not just creative and inspiring it it is a way for the brand to illustrate and breath its tagline into each visual: a taste of welcome.

In conclusion, we all love stories. Food product photography goes beyond capturing visually appealing images. It is about telling a story, triggering emotions and connecting with the viewer. It is about sharing the essence of a brand, showcasing its personality and values and the craftsmanship that goes into creating each product. Supporting a product with visual storytelling is imperative for a brand to be remembered.

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Beauty Photography | Building a Creative Team

When I create still-life images it is a one-woman show. I approach this kind of work like meditation. It is a very personal conversation between me and the non-animated subject, where I try to give it a voice. On the other end working on food or beauty projects often require a team.

For beauty photography, you can think of a hair and makeup artist, a model, a stylist, or in food photography, the props stylist, or a food stylist, but no matter the type of project: food or beauty, each member of the creative team is like a piece of a puzzle that comes together to create the outcome.

The people part of the team may have different roles, but the criteria detailed below are what you might look for when building a team. As you will see, the focus is more on soft skills than anything.

Expertise

Let's first address the hard skill that is essential to the good delivery of the shoot. No matter your level of expertise you want to surround yourself with people of similar levels of knowledge and know-how in their field. And this relates to the expectations from each other. For example, a makeup artist who has previously worked on photoshoots is always a good thing as she will have experience with how to deal with makeup under artificial lights. You also want to pick the right creative partner who is especially good in a specific style and can help achieve the desired outcome: Like a makeup artist who is experienced or confident in creating the specific looks you aim for. For the talents, you may start with beginners when you are learning how to pose and give directions, and collaborate with more experienced ones as you are proficient.

Behaviour

After making sure that expectations can be met, attitude is a close second. It might be undervalued but the way everyone behaves during the shoot and approaches the project of the day is critical. It may be just a test shoot or a big campaign for a renowned brand, behaving professionally shows your commitment to give your best no matter what is the job. Of all the people I have worked with, I remember the most the ones who were dedicated to giving their best.

As part of the creative team (makeup artist and hair stylist or wardrobe stylist) someone with a problem-solving attitude, open to try new things, ready to help, and a good listener is always appreciated. On the talent part, someone who no matter the shoot gives it 100%. I appreciate when models take the time to have a look at the mood board and think of what is expected from them on the day. Attitude is like a transfer of energy that comes through your actions and interactions.

Energy

The best photoshoot is not just the one with a good outcome (such as good images) but the one where a synergy has operated during the photo shoot, induced a state of flow, and produced great outcomes while everyone had fun. This transfer of energy from one individual to another is so important.

I have to confess here that I am a reserved person and despite my calm demeanor, I can sense who is in front of my lens. From the confident model to the one that needs time to warm up or feels more comfortable once they get props and accessories, behind the lens the shift is noticeable. It then becomes like a dance, where we both follow the same tempo.

Alignment

Every team member has a reason to participate in the shoot, yet when comes the production day everyone needs to align to a common goal. The creative team supports and works together to make the creative idea a reality while its members have their specific objectives (from gaining experience to building a portfolio to expanding a network...). It is a balancing act between personal objectives and the common achievement of the photo shoot. This alignment is important because it reflects the energy and attitude listed above.   

For example, when building a portfolio you may ask if they have a similar intention and if they would consider an ongoing collaboration. Misalignment often leads to frustration and disappointment, so it is important that everyone formulates clearly their expectations and objectives.

It takes time to find the people you work well with, but the outcome and experience are nothing you can compare with. These human values make all the difference. So next time you are looking to build a creative team, think about how each member can contribute beyond their skillset to the project and how it's important to surround yourself with the right people on set.

Creative team

Model Alessia C. from Rebel Rebel Agency

Makeup artist Krystal Tamba

Food Photography | Texture Colour and Form

Like for any genre of photography light and composition are the essential elements to make a good food photograph. Light is important because it reveals textures and colours in food, while composition plays on forms. Let's see how the use of these features makes a good recipe for an appealing food photograph.

Textures

The overall idea is to appeal to the senses that can not directly engage with the subject matter. Because the taste of the food itself is not possible to translate visually, textures on the other end can be alluded to. The light can give a good idea to the viewer if that food would crunch, feel silky smooth, or gritty on the tongue. Here the smooth ribbons of carrot, on a bed of soft noodles, contrast with the garnish of fresh mint leaves, tiny sesame seeds, and crunchy slices of radish. Lighting food is a skillful technique to reveal the textures of food that can not be tasted. Here the backlighting highlights the contrast of textures in the dish, while the side light shows the radish's asperous skin in the second shot.

Colours

The light reveals the colours. The colours are so primordial to create appeal in food. In the world of food photography, the so-called brown food is known to be hard to photograph as it is not the most attractive colour and easily translates as visually dull. Here the salad with vibrant pink, orange, and yellow hues creates the main colour palette with hints of green (garnish and mint leaves). The natural pink and green hues of the radish are visual echoes of the dominant colour palette in the salad shot. And beyond the food itself, the props play within the same colour arrangement: the lilac backdrop matches the chopstick handles colour. 

In the black-and-white version, you may agree that, despite the forms, textures, and pattern being visually reinforced, the subject matter loses a lot of its appeal. And as a matter of fact, food is rarely represented in a monochromatic way. The purpose of the food photograph is to trigger a reaction from the viewer, therefore the choice of colours is important. You may not like salad, but the harmony of colours in the image makes it more attractive and pleasant to look at and could make you consider it.

Forms

The bulbous shape of the radish contrasts with the root which looks like a long wavy tail. Within the diptych, the shapes are mirrored and create a rhythm within the composition. The round radish is reflected by the circular shallow plate and the direction of the radish root is repeated by the placement of the chopsticks. Because random shapes and arrangements rarely appeal to the viewer, it is important to compose within the frame for a clear visual message. So here, the juxtaposition of circular and linear creates movements and a visual dynamic to initiate interest from the observer.

In food photography, texture, colour, and form are the main ingredients that aim to recreate a sensory experience. You may not get the taste and smell, but expert use of light and composition will manage to build interest even in the food you may have never experienced before. Ultimately the images that have successfully created a reaction in the viewer are the ones that are likely to lead them to try the recipe, purchase the prepared meal, or try that restaurant.

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Beauty Photography | Beyond Age

Last year I applied for a sponsorship program and I had to detail the projects I would like to work on if I were awarded the sponsorship.

While I was not selected, writing down these projects made me realise that I could to bring them to life anyway.

As a woman of colour, over forty and a multicultural background, my notion and perception of beauty is more nuanced than the one commonly represented.

Yet I have come to realise that after years of doing beauty photography and building a body of work along the way, my views were not completely reflected in my work. So here is my attempt to push myself and let self-expression be.

I am starting with Penelope. She exudes this natural warmth that just shines through the lens. Modelling since she is 17, she effortlessly poses and was a joy to work with. And models with a great attitude on set always have my preference.

Grateful as always for this shoot with this gorgeous lady, who shows that beauty knows no age.

Creative team

Model: Penelope S at Silverfox Management

Hmua: Nichole Lee

Beauty photographer: Viviane Perenyi

Food Photography | Mushrooms & Seeing Beauty

I think it's a gift to see beauty in the everyday: Subtle nuances gone unnoticed or details hidden in plain sight. It requires one to be present to pay attention.

When I make the conscious choice to be present, it's like having the senses open ready to surprise me.

We are all attracted to beauty. It's just that we don’t give that name to the same things. Beauty is not just the codified or limited representation defined by society. it doesn't have to be exceptional or grandiose. Beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder. So in that way, it's a conscious choice to tune yourself and your receptors and notice it any time and anywhere you happen to be.

These humble mushrooms pictured here, are the perfect example. From their neutral colour palette harmoniously packed in the box, to their soft textures and rounded shapes; there is something delicate yet rustic about these fungi. They are, for an instant, more than simple ingredients. They become a source of interest and inspiration.

It may be a fleeting moment, but it's enough to uplift the mood and feel grateful to witness this unassuming beauty. It triggers joy to notice and get a chance to capture it too.

And you, do you take a moment to appreciate something beautiful in your own surroundings regularly? It's a practice. And like any mindful exercise, we get better the more we do. I find it an important practice as it helps to fuel my inspiration. Truly beauty is everywhere for the ones who are ready to receive it.

Product Photography | Cosmetic Textures | Part 3

A recent test shot where I played with moisturizer and a transparent sheet. It feels good to freely create at times and go with the flow, without expectations. And the result can be surprisingly interesting.

After trying my hand at perfecting the nice looking cream smear, I just kept experimenting, using a transparent film and a comb. And those are the abstract patterns I got to capture. Not your usual cosmetic textures, I have to admit. And even though they are different from each other, the colour palette helps and makes for a compelling series.

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Product Photography | How Light Impacts Your Visual Message

After years of practicing my craft, there are some aspects I tend to take for granted: Like how to read the light and how it impacts our perception and emotions.

Photographers are thought to master their gear, but they truly have to master the light. After all, photography means drawing with light. 

When done correctly, the light in an image can convey a mood and trigger feelings in the viewer. The question is why would you want to evoke a feeling? Well, because when you resonate with a message (be it visual or not) you are more likely to be sold afterward.

• The setup

These two images represent the very same subject: facial oil, lightly emulsified, in a glass container. The point of view is similar but the photos were taken under different light conditions. And as we can see this single difference results in rather distinct visual outcomes. 

• Image comparison

Now let's look intently at each picture. The first one with its soft light -where shadows and light are both subtle- and subdued colours gives a romanticised view of the subject matter. The second image in contrast with its intense hard light -casting strong shadows, crisp contour, and almost monochromatic rendering- gives the subject an edge and a modern look. 

The viewer is likely to have a different reaction or feeling to each image even though they both represent the same subject matter and the only difference is the light condition.

• Why use one approach more than another?

It’s not uncommon to see photographers adopt one particular lighting that becomes part of their photographic style.

For brands, it is important to craft a visual message aligned with their values and identity. The photographer, with their expert use of light can help brands reinforce their intended message: Do you want to emphasise the glamour and glow of using the skincare oil (first image) or do you want to appeal to the young, active, and modern-day woman (second image)?

As technology and tastes evolve, so do visual trends. One of the current trends is using hard light (2nd photo). And as we are all influenced to a certain degree by trends, the challenge for brands is to be inspired by them while remaining faithful to their own values and message.

In conclusion, the next time you create new visual content, you may ask yourself these questions: Does the visual content accurately represent your brand? Does it correspond to your target market? And in what proportion the current trends have influenced your content?

Food Photography | How Diptych Can Help You Tell a Story

This food story came to be in the same way as the one there. First I shot a closeup of a cucumber thinking of adding it to my macro collection. After multiple shots capturing best the patterns, subtle colours, and textures, it felt like the idea had to be pushed further.

Diptych is based on the principle that two are better than one. It works like two pieces of a puzzle, completing each other. And the result outweighs the value of each image alone. For a diptych to work, the composition, colours, and light need to complement each other when put together.

The diptych may play on similitudes and variations or juxtaposition and contrasts while keeping a visual coherence.

Here I decided to go for the second approach, which applies to:

• The perspective: To bring interest into the diptych frame, different points of view usually work best. In this case, a closeup shot is combined with a contextual shot. One frame focus on the subject details and the other shows a broader view of the subject as part of a larger scene. Ultimately the overall composition of the diptych needs to be well-balanced.

• Colours: They play an important role in tying together the two frames. Here the warm colour of the background in the second shot creates an interesting contrast with the cool colour (green) of the cucumber in the first shot. The orange background also represents the summer heat in contrast to the refreshing taste of the green cucumber. Also, the orange tomatoes are like little touches reminding the main background colour.

• The light: Soft on one side and hard (strong shadows) on the other.

Yet the diptych is coherent thanks to a shared main subject (food, cucumber) and other subtle elements present in each frame, like the honeycomb-like patterns and the different shades of green.

I enjoy building visual narratives and making a diptych is a playful exercise to do so.

Lifestyle Photography | Model Portfolio Photoshoot

Rocci contacted me again, some time after we did our initial beauty shoot together. She wanted some new shots for her portfolio and shared visual references of what she was aiming for. We shot outdoor in a small and quiet pedestrian laneway where we used the white painted brick wall as a backdrop. The light there was flattering and guided my choice for the location. Yet, I set up a flash through an umbrella and used a reflector as fill.

Usually, I like to have a clear idea of the creative direction when I shoot and this time the exercise was to trust and be guided by the creative flow. And the end result has this pleasing editorial look of a brand campaign.

The silver lining of this lockdown situation is that it pushes me to go through my archives and look at photos with a different perspective.

Creative team:

Model: Rocci Smit | Hmua: Nichole Lee | Photographer: Viviane Perenyi

Food Photography | Through the Macro Lens | Part 2

I recently curated an Instagram guide about textures and colour (mainly in food) that reminded me of this food macro series I started a while ago. Here’s part 2 of this ongoing project.

The subject: The underlying theme here is transparency. The thin slice of Meyer lemon or the glistening pomegranate seeds allow for this kind of play. After trying other options with what was available in the kitchen, those were my preference. The pomegranate seeds may not be well defined but the visual result has a similar vibe, looking fresh.

The setup: We are in lockdown right now and setting the lights is not the most convenient with the family around. So I played with the sunlight. I placed the slice in a transparent sandwich bag taped against the window to let the midday sunshine go through. This simple setup with the backlight lets the interesting details come through.

The styling: In macro food photography styling is minimal but details are important. The pattern of the lemon flesh is captivating in itself, yet pressed against the clear plastic bag, the lemon slice livens up with small air bubbles and juice showing. Similarly, the droplets of condensation from the pomegranate juice bring additional appeal while giving the illusion of a refreshing drink.

As the topic of food through the macro lens is a work in progress that needs further exploration, you can expect more coming soon.

View part 1 of this macro food photography series.

Beauty Photography | 80's Glam

Drafting this post led me to reflect on what guides my creative choices. How I came to do this shoot and chose this look over endless other options.

My conclusion is that the selection is right at the intersection of three elements:

• The inspiration, most of the time a visual that triggers the initial idea.

• The model, much like a canvas for the concept. I like to believe the model is the right fit and will wear the look so well, that it’s not only visually pleasing, but credible and can spark emotion in the viewer.

• The personal spin, made of my experiences, knowledge, tastes and views, like a layer that wraps around the other elements.

I had been in touch with Luisa for some time before the shoot came to be. The decisive time was when I could picture her in that look. Like a story unfolding in my mind. And you might agree that Luisa totally rocked in a blazer, with winged eyes and a bold curly hairstyle inspired by the 80’s glam.

View the first part of the shoot here.

Creative team model: Luisa Mariano | Hair & makeup: Nichole Lee | Photographer: Viviane Perenyi

Lifestyle | Motion

A recap in motion of the previous post. I shared this on social media and thought it might be nice to have it here too.

Lifestyle | New Perspective

From time to time I like to go through my archive and look at images with a new pair of eyes. It’s as if time creates the distance necessary to look at the same images from a different perspective. My view is not narrowed to what I was trying to visually achieve on that day, but open to a potential story to emerge.

These are outtakes from this outdoor beauty and lifestyle shoot done a year ago. Same shoot yet a different mood and aesthetic. The grainy black and white edit matches well the overcast sky and rocky shore, creating a distinctive vibe.

I remember that I didn’t expect too much from these shots at the beginning of the shoot. The weather and light were less than ideal. And I considered it a warm-up before getting to the intended shots.

Yet, here they are, unearthed, telling a new story, simple and raw.

By the Sea

Creative team

Model Anastasiya Jepsen

HMUA Nichole Lee

Photographer Viviane Perenyi

Beauty Photography | On Perseverance

I had this idea for a long while of adding variety in my body of work. As a starting point I wanted to show mature skin models in my beauty work. The main trigger being an image I initially saw online that truly inspired me, opening my mind to the possibility.

As simple as it may sound, the truth is, I had to overcome my own fear to start this project. I doubted myself and my capacity to translate what I had in mind. So it took me some time to finally kick start the project. And to put my determination to the test, I stumbled upon a series of minor setbacks while organising this shoot. The kind that makes you doubt if you’re doing the right thing. The ultimate one being on the day of the shoot when my camera started to malfunction and the shoot prematurely had to come to a halt.

At this point, I have to say that the team on set was just amazing and so supportive. Its spirit made all the difference and helped me look at this experience from a different perspective.

I am grateful I got a chance to meet and work with these lovely ladies and how we managed to get these shots that are the start of something new…

Creative team:

Model: Penelope S. at Silverfox Management

HMUA: Ana Costa

Photographer Viviane Perenyi

Beauty | Au Naturel | Motion

As mentioned in the previous post, besides the stills, I also made a video. The same relaxed vibe with a natural look, but in motion.

Motion is something that’s on my list for a long while and that I never seemed to make room for. It’s a humble beginning, but a medium I definitely want to explore more from now on. It has triggered a lot of new ideas that I can’t wait to bring to life.

Creative team model: Luisa Mariano Hair & makeup: Nichole Lee Photographer: Viviane Perenyi

Beauty Photography | Au Naturel

On a regular basis, I like to evaluate where I need to expand or develop my body of work.

At the beginning when I did beauty shoots, I was interested to capture the elaborate looks, the transformation ones.

These days, I still want to do the creative looks, but also give more place to the natural ones. You may remember this one or that one. And as simple as it may sound, there are so many ways to capture and portray natural beauty.

This time I wanted to approach the au naturel concept differently and pepper this notion in the look, the lighting and overall feel.

• The amazing Luisa effortlessly embodies natural beauty and is the ideal canvas for this concept. Her features barely need to be enhanced to be appreciated.

• I took advantage of the natural light racking in the background to incorporate it in the shots. It adds an interesting visual element and reinforces the natural concept.

• The pose once more supports the idea. It deliberately reflects a cool and chill attitude. The one you may have when you are simply yourself.

Sharing in a coming post, the very same look in motion this time. Stay tuned !

Creative team model: Luisa Mariano Hair & makeup: Nichole Lee Photographer: Viviane Perenyi