January 24, 2024

040: Art, Adversity, Ambition: Christina Peters’ Path

EPISODE SUMMARY

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a successful food photographer? In the latest episode of Savory Shot, Christina Peters shares her incredible journey from a rebellious teenager to a renowned food photographer. Christina talks about her early challenges, like moving out at 16 and juggling multiple jobs while still in high school, all to pursue her passion for photography. She highlights the importance of resilience and adapting to changes, especially transitioning from film to digital photography.

Christina also dives into the artistry behind capturing culinary stories. She explains how food photography is more than just taking pictures; it’s about telling stories and making every dish look like a work of art. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring photographers, providing insights into the technical and creative aspects of food photography.

But that’s not all! Christina opens up about the business side of photography, discussing how to turn a passion into a thriving career. She emphasizes the need for patience, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of one’s craft.

Want to hear more about Christina’s inspiring story and gain valuable photography tips? Tune in to this episode of Savory Shot for a masterclass in passion, perseverance, and the art of food photography.

About Christina

Christina has been an award-winning commercial food photographer for three decades. She’s been teaching for 25 years and blogging for the last 12 years at Food Photography Blog. Some of her commercial clients include Chipotle, Domino’s Pizza, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, HarperCollins Publishers, Kraft, Marriott Hotels, McDonald’s, Taco Bell, Burger Kind and Nestle, to name a few.

After getting her second photography degree in the Los Angeles area, she decided to open her studio there, where she taught several food photography and business workshops.

Christina has shot all over the US, specializing in advertising and packaging and working with ad agencies and design firms. She currently has two studios, one in Los Angeles and one in the Mid-Atlantic area just outside of Philadelphia.

Christina opened her membership site, Food Photography Club, in 2017, where she teaches hundreds of photographers how to improve their food photography and also get higher-paying food photography clients.

She also became a best-selling author in 2021 with her book, The Entrepreneur Code: The Habits Of Creators.


Episode Breakdown

  • Christina’s early photography interests inspired by her father.
  • Christina surpasses her father’s photography skills as a teenager.
  • Her father’s background in gas chromatography and its influence.
  • Christina’s decision to pursue photography despite her father’s opposition.
  • Transition from film to digital photography and its impact.
  • The challenges and costs of film photography.
  • The evolution of digital photography and file formats.
  • Christina’s ability to read people and clients.
  • Balancing artistic integrity with client demands.
  • The path to becoming a successful assistant in photography.
  • The importance of knowing professional equipment as an assistant.
  • The role of assisting in Christina’s career development.
  • The legal and safety aspects of photo assisting.
  • How assisting shaped Christina’s approach to food photography.
  • Misconceptions about food photography and client expectations.

Resources

  1. Food Photography Club – https://www.foodphotographyclub.com/

Transcript

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