Delicious peanut butter and strawberry jelly smoothie brings back memories of smooth milkshakes and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

There is something deeply therapeutic about slowing down to style a scene where the ingredients are allowed to speak for themselves. In the studio, we often work with complex setups, but tonight’s personal shoot was all about simplicity, light, and one very specific star: Bondolio Olive Oil.

As the sun began its slow descent, my drive through the park transformed into a gallery of desert gold, captured in three unforgettable moments. The first image showcases a solitary Joshua Tree standing in perfect defiance, its twisted limbs beautifully enveloped by a cluster of massive, weathered monzogranite boulders. Moving further down the road, the light shifted to a brilliant amber, allowing for a shot in which the low-slung sun pierces directly through the spiky leaves of a tree, creating a natural starburst that feels like the heartbeat of the Mojave. Finally, I pulled over to witness the rugged backside of Cap Rock, where the desert floor had been transformed into a lush, green velvet carpet thanks to the recent rains—a vibrant contrast to the ancient stone glowing in the twilight.

This fun test shoot was inspired by California-style pizza, a genre known for its thin, crisp crust and inventive toppings. From BBQ chicken and spicy pepperoni to colorful vegetarian combinations, California pizza is all about creativity and breaking tradition. Our inspiration came from a deeper dive into foods born in California—and, admittedly, from the very practical excuse of bringing home a new outdoor pizza oven and putting it to work.

Test shoots like this also give my team a chance to jump in as models for both video and stills, experiment with new lighting ideas, and build fresh party-style scenes straight from our prop room. It’s creative play with purpose—and delicious results. 🍕

I’m thrilled to share this recent food photography project featuring Fresh Gourmet Bacon Pieces, a crave-worthy ingredient that instantly elevates everyday dishes. With their rich flavor and satisfying crunch, these bacon pieces are a dream to style and photograph, adding texture, warmth, and indulgence to any scene. They are perfect inspiration for true bacon lovers!

In the first image, the bacon pieces crown a comforting twice-baked potato, highlighting how a simple addition can transform a classic into something extra special. (Recipe linked here.)

The second shot showcases the bacon paired with roasted Brussels sprouts, where savory notes and golden caramelization create a bold, modern side dish that feels both wholesome and indulgent. (Recipe linked here.)

Here is a personal project titled Born in California. It is still in progress. The goal is to highlight all of the iconic foods that were born in California!