I asked the Jersey Shore chapter of the ACF if I could make a presentation to their members. They were very happy to oblige. At their meeting  they were going to present the dishes they are preparing for Winterfest 2011, a charitable event. Then, they had an idea that I can do a demonstration of how I photograph food by shooting the dishes. They could then use the photos on the website to promote Winterfest 2o11 to raise more money.  I thought this was a great way of introducing myself to the group and help them raise money so I agreed.

The meeting was last night at the National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt, NJ. So, I loaded up the car with all of my equipment because you never know what you will find. The meeting was in the mess hall and the troops were still eating and cleaning up when I arrived – not exactly the venue I envisioned (like I said, you never know what you will find.) I set up my seamless, laptop, lights, cameras, business cards, portfolio, and even my ipad to display my work. The meeting started and as they were ready (without any notice), the chefs brought out their dishes. Considering the conditions, the time allotted and the fact that there was no food stylist, I thought that the photos came out quite well. I hope that the photos help them sell tickets for this worthy cause.

The chefs were eating their dinners, which included salad. Then, someone placed a salad plate on the table where I was set up. I did not know that this was the salad to be shot…I thought that they were offering me something to eat. Thank goodness that I decided to use the salad to get my lights and camera ready. I shot the salad and then noticed that the plates were a little nicer than everybody else having dinner. Just to make sure, I took a couple of extra shots of the salad. I’m lucky that I wasn’t hungry that night.

If you can be near Point Pleasant, NJ on February 27, 2011 at 3:30, buy a ticket – no, buy a couple of tickets – for Winterfest 2011, and have a great meal. If it tastes half as good as it looks, you’ll be in for a treat. See you there!