FAQs
There are always a few questions that need answers. Perhaps this section will clear up said questions? Well, I’ll give it a shot, at least!
Is your photography and / or cooking training formal?
Yes and no. Like many, I am a self-taught cook, save for the smattering of elective cooking classes I took in high school when I though I actually wanted to be a chef. (Ahhh, those were the days…) As for my photography background, I have taken various courses since my teens regarding the camera and the lens. In undergrad, my Liberal Studies minor was Media Communications, and, to really break it all down, I took courses in digital photography, film photography, graphic design, magazine publishing, and television production. My internship was at a small community television station in Longmeadow, MA, where I’d tape town hall meetings for broadcast. (Note: Professional TV cameras definitely give you a workout. I’d be sore afterwards!) I continue to self-teach and am always looking for opportunities to enhance my practice.
Do you review restaurants?
Yelp Elite in Manhattan, 8 years running. Though, I am not a full – of – herself one that “South Park” would make fun of. (At least I think. Haaa.) At this time, I do not post restaurant reviews on this site.
Do you work with other like-minded foodies?
Despite being an only child, I’ve been taught to play well with others. I currently am a contributing food writer for Yoga By Candace. If you have any opportunities for collaborations (recipe development, food photography, features, et al), please contact me.
What types of cameras and lenses do you use?
I’ve been using a Canon Rebel T3i since December 2011. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. (Not to say I’m not saving up for an upgrade eventually. Most of my money goes to rent and SoFi at the moment…) I occasionally use my original EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens, but I also love using my Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 pancake lens on a more regular basis. Though rare, but in a pinch, I’ve been known to use my iPhone 6S for certain photos.
Where do you take your photos?
I have been blessed with a decent amount of natural light in my kitchen, and I am very strict in only using natural light for my photography. For a person living in Manhattan, that is damn near a miracle! That being said, The Magic Hour doesn’t last that long for me; in the warmer months, I can luck out and get some decent natural light after I get home from work. That being said, most of my at-home photography is done on the weekends in the autumn and winter months.
May I use one of your photos or recipes?
Of course, but I ask for prior permission and a link back to my original recipe. All of my original photos are copyrighted. Please refer to my Contact Page for my contact information. Once you post a page with any of my information, please send me a link back so I can look! I am always excited to see what’s been created based off of one of my creations!
That being said, I of course also borrow inspirations from others; I practice what I preach and give recipe credit where credit is due. Links to original recipes, where applicable, are always available in my posts.
You look STUNNING! Who took your photos for this site?
Oh, you flatter me! Go on! (No…seriously, go on. Ha!) My professional photos were taken by my good friend / co-worker Krystal. She has her own photography business, Krystal Balzer Photography. Please check her out!
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