Behind the Scenes: Mole Chicken for Días de Los Muertos Shoot

Hey there, friends! Mica McCook here, and today, I’m taking you behind the scenes of one of my recent Mole Chicken Photoshoot, featuring the delicious and festive Mole Chicken in preparation for Días de Los Muertos. I can’t wait to share the creative process, styling techniques, and how I captured the essence of this incredible dish. Additionally, I’ll share some fun anecdotes, challenges faced, and the overall experience working on this project. So, let’s dive in!

The Creative Process

This traditional Mexican dish is scrumptious and holds deep cultural significance. I knew I wanted to capture its spirit and showcase the vibrant colors and textures associated with the celebration.

I infused heart and soul into every detail, evoking connections and stirring senses for viewers of the final images. Staying authentic to Días de Los Muertos’ spirit, I aimed to bring a colorful, captivating approach to the pictures.

Styling Techniques

The styling process celebrated bold flavors and rich textures of molé sauce, making your taste buds dance with delight. I’ve been blessed to work with talented food stylists on past shoots. This experience helped create an enchanting shot, showcasing vibrant ingredients and intricate Días de Los Muertos decorations, evoking wonder.

I chose a vibrant purple table linen for warmth and festivity, paired with colorful pottery, adding irresistible charm. To enhance the atmosphere, I adorned the table with fragrant marigold flowers and roses, symbolizing life’s joy and beauty. The Mole Chicken took center stage, plated on a stunning handmade ceramic plate that exudes an earthy, authentic vibe. To complete this mouthwatering masterpiece, I surrounded the dish with crispy tortilla chips, fluffy rice, and zesty lime garnishes. All were sprinkled with nutty sesame seeds and vibrant cilantro, creating a feast for the eyes and soul.

Capturing the Essence

Exploring and experimenting with striking contrast of light and shadows has thrilled me, as I challenge food photography norms. I wanted to prove that you can create an alluring sense of drama and intensity without relying solely on the soft, dark, and moody light that often dominates the genre. Días de los Muertos is a deeply passionate and spirited holiday, and I felt that only the bold, vivid interplay of light and shadow could truly do justice to the emotional depth and vibrancy of this beautiful celebration.

The Overall Experience

Embarking on this Mole Chicken photoshoot for Días de Los Muertos was a deeply touching and transformative experience that allowed me to delve into the depths of my creativity and immerse myself in the rich tapestry of a beautiful and profoundly meaningful celebration. As a half-Mexican, fervently passionate about genealogy, honoring and celebrating my ancestors holds a special place in my heart. In conclusion, I can’t help but feel a powerful connection to the cherished family members who’ve gone before me, and I truly believe they would beam with pride at the results of this heartfelt shoot. I’m thrilled by how the final images turned out.

I truly hope this little peek behind the scenes has sparked your imagination and given you a glimpse into the heartfelt passion and meticulous attention to detail I pour into every single project I take on. If you need stunning visuals for your food brand, restaurant, or cookbook, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Reach out to me, and let’s chat about how we can create stunning food photography together!