Still Life with Olive Oil

The Story Behind the Still Life

The idea for this photo came to me while reminiscing about a trip to Spain. The warm evenings, the charming cafes, the delicious tapas—it all left a lasting impression. One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the city, we indulged in a delightful spread of croquetas, olive oil, and sourdough bread. The flavors were simple yet exquisite, and the atmosphere was pure magic. I wanted to capture that feeling, that essence of culinary delight, in a photograph. The Spanish tradition of dining out, especially in the warmer months, also fascinated me. With many city apartments being quite small, cafes and restaurants become an extension of people’s homes, fostering a vibrant social scene.

Setting the Stage

The shoot took place in the familiar comfort of my home studio. My home studio is a creative haven where inspiration always seems to bloom. Most props I needed were from my cherished collection, carefully curated over many shoots and travels. Each rustic prop—wooden board, earthenware bowl, vintage bottles—told a story, adding depth and authenticity to the scene. A quick trip to Central Market provided the finishing touches: plump green olives and a sprig of fragrant rosemary. The props were chosen for their simplicity and ability to complement the overall image without distracting from the main subjects: the bottles of olive oil. I was also eager to test out my new Gobo Snoot, a lighting tool that promised to add a touch of drama to the scene.

Capturing the Essence

With the scene set and my camera poised, I aimed to recreate the magic of that Spanish evening. The Gobo Snoot cast a dramatic spotlight on the olive oil bottles and transformed them into the stars of the show. It’s a reminder that even the most humble ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary through the lens of a camera. If you’re looking to recreate specific lighting situations, using a GOBO is a fantastic way to achieve that desired effect.

Savoring the Moment

Looking back, I’m most proud of the rich, inviting colors in this photograph. They evoke a sense of warmth and abundance, reminiscent of a sun-drenched Mediterranean feast. I believe I captured these colors in a rich, classy, and artistic way.

So, if you have a project that could benefit from my eye for detail and passion for storytelling, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m currently booking for October and November. Let’s create something beautiful together. Contact me today!