On Saturday, I took my first food photography class with Clare Barboza, documentary food photographer. Myself, and 5 others, spent the day in her gorgeous studio, amongst the most amazing collection of props, dishes, linens, etc. Quietly tucked away in Seattle's industrial district, sits the most studio/loft imaginable. Her space is a food photographer's dream.

We spent the first hour looking over a hand picked selection of Clare's beautiful photos, discussing lighting techniques, composition, depth of field, layers, patterns, angles, and styling. After taking it all in, we were set loose, like children in a candy store, picking and choosing our favorite pieces. That day, I felt inspired by lighter colors, pinks, turquoise, pastels, being that I recognized a few of the pieces from one of my favorite food photographers site, Tartlette.

The next three hours were spent photographing various food items, cupcakes, cookies, hot chocolate, soup, citrus, cheese, etc. We were able to roam free and explore our creativity, while Clare offered her insight, advice, suggestions, and recommendations. It was a wonderful experience, being able to have your worked critiqued by someone as talented as Clare. 

Throughout the day, I found it difficult to concentrate on food styling and composition, when my eyes kept moving in the direction of this kitchen. Gorgeous appliances, hard wood floors, tall ceilings. It was so beautiful.