Playing With Colours

As a food photographer, I always strive to capture the essence of the dishes I shoot. One way I love to add visual interest to my photographs is by playing with colours. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing some freshly picked asparagus on a vibrant blue background, and the results were stunning.

The contrast between the green asparagus and the blue background created a striking visual effect that really made the dish pop. I love how the blue background made the asparagus look even fresher and more vibrant, almost like it was still growing in a garden.

Playing with colours in food photography is a great way to add depth and interest to your images. It allows you to create a mood and convey a feeling that complements the dish you're photographing. Whether you're using bright, bold colours or more muted tones, experimenting with color can help you create truly unique and captivating images.

Of course, it's important to remember that colour is just one element of food photography, and it should always serve to enhance the overall composition of your image. But when used effectively, colour can be a powerful tool that helps to bring your dishes to life and create a visual feast for the eyes.

#foodphotography

I’ve Deleted Multiple Social Accounts

As a photographer, I've always believed that social media is a powerful tool for building my brand and showcasing my work. Over the years, I've created multiple social media accounts to reflect the different areas of my photography business. However, I've recently come to the realization that managing all these accounts has been exhausting and overwhelming.

Trying to feed these accounts with content has been a constant challenge. I found myself struggling to create unique content for each one, which ultimately led to a decline in the quality of my posts. I realized that this wasn't sustainable, and I needed to make a change.

That's why I made the decision to delete six of my social media accounts, leaving just one on each platform. This has been a difficult decision, but I believe it's the right one for me at this point in my career.

I've decided to refocus on my passion for food and restaurant photography, as well as interior design. These are the areas where I feel most inspired, and where I believe I can make the biggest impact. Although I do offer other photography services, I've decided to make food and restaurant photography and interiors my main focus.

I’ve also adjusted my rates in line with this new focus.

By streamlining my social media presence in this way, I can now devote more time and energy to creating high-quality content that truly reflects my passions and interests. I'm excited to see where this new focus takes me and my business.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by your social media presence, I encourage you to consider consolidating your accounts. By focusing on the areas where you feel most passionate and inspired, you'll be able to create content that truly reflects your unique vision and style. Don't be afraid to make difficult decisions, as they may ultimately be the key to your success.

#refocus

Taking Back My Life

These late spring mornings are a source of pure delight to me. They have the power to transport me back to my childhood days by the River Alyn in Hope, where I would spend hours exploring and enjoying the natural beauty around me. The memories of those carefree days are etched into my mind, and they bring a sense of peace and contentment to my soul.

In this world of constant commercialism and noise, I wanted to take a moment to share a simple, non-commercial post. It's a reminder to myself and others that sometimes, the most valuable things in life cannot be bought or sold.

Recently, I received some wonderful news about a health scare that had been weighing heavily on me. This experience has given me a fresh perspective on life, and I am committed to enjoying every moment to the fullest. As part of this new outlook, I am planning to reduce my social media presence and focus on quality over quantity.

I know it won't be easy, but I am determined to make the most of my time, and to spend it on the things that truly matter. I want to savor each moment, to appreciate the beauty around me, and to cultivate meaningful connections with the people in my life.

So here's to these beautiful sunny mornings, to the memories they evoke, and to the new beginnings they inspire.

Ray

Taking Time Out

We've come to realize that being good in business doesn't just mean working hard and making money. It's also about taking the time to enjoy the things we love and the people we care about and like being with. Today was a perfect example of this.

We started our day with a visit to St Helens church in Tarporley. We've always had a fascination with churches and exploring their history and architecture. It was a beautiful experience that reminded us of the importance of taking time to appreciate the beauty around us. We love architecture.

After our visit to the church, we met up with our friends for afternoon tea in their Georgian styled garden. The garden setting for tea was like like from Tea With Mussolini. The food was delicious, the conversation was lively, and the atmosphere was simply magical.

As we sit here in our own little paradise, we can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. It's a reminder that to be successful in business and in life, we need to make time for the things that bring us joy and fulfillment. Today was a beautiful reminder of that, and we're so grateful to have experienced it.

#dowhatyoulove

I Won The 60 Second Presentaion

Winning the 60 second presentation at my network meetings was always a challenge for me. No matter how much I prepared, I just couldn't seem to capture the attention of the audience. That's when I realized that I needed to do something different if I wanted to stand out and make an impact.

Just like my photography, I strive to be different in everything I do. I believe that being unique is what sets you apart from the crowd and helps you achieve success. So, I decided to take that same approach with my pitch and wrote a poem about my business.

At first, I was hesitant to take such a creative approach. I wondered if people would take me seriously or if they would think I was being unprofessional. But I knew that I needed to take a risk if I wanted to achieve my goals, so I went for it.

To my surprise, my approach paid off. Not only did I capture the attention of the audience, but I also won the presentation. It was an amazing feeling to know that my unique approach had worked and that I was able to stand out from the crowd.

This experience taught me a valuable lesson about business and life in general. It's easy to get caught up in doing things the way that everyone else does them, but sometimes, taking a risk and doing something different can lead to great success.

So, I encourage you to embrace your creativity and strive to be different and celebrate themin everything you do. You never know where it might take you or what kind of impact it might have on your life and your business.

Preparing the Food & Team in Preparation for a Photoshoot

Preparing food for a photography shoot requires a different approach than preparing food for regular service. To ensure that your catering business's dishes and team look their best in photographs, here are some tips to consider:

1. Use Quality Knives and Forks: A good quality knife and fork set can make all the difference in how your dishes look in photographs. Ensure that the cutlery is clean and polished, and avoid using disposable cutlery as it can look cheap and unprofessional.

2. Clean Plates: Clean plates are essential for food photography. Make sure that the plates are free from any food debris or stains and are not chipped or cracked.

3. Quality Napkins: The napkins you use should be of a high quality and in good condition. If the napkins are stained or frayed, it will detract from the overall look of the photograph. Alternatively, you could consider removing the napkins altogether if they do not add to the presentation.

4. Less is More: When it comes to food photography, less is often more. Avoid overcrowding the plate with too many elements, as it can look messy and unappetizing in the photograph. Focus on presenting only the key elements of the dish.

5. Presentation Matters: The way you arrange the food on the plate can make all the difference to how it looks in the photograph. Avoid simply plonking the food on the plate, and instead consider the presentation of each element. Take the time to arrange the food in an attractive and aesthetically pleasing way. Your chef will have been trained on presentation and plating. If you have a cook in the kitchen consider employing a chef with plating skills for the shoot.

6. Book the photography shoot outside of normal business hours. If possible, consider booking the photography shoot when the business is closed. This will allow the chef and staff to focus solely on the presentation of the dishes and not be distracted by regular service or orders.

7. Use fresh and vibrant ingredients which are essential for creating visually appealing images. Fresh herbs like basil, coriander, and parsley not only add flavor to dishes but also provide a pop of color and texture in photographs. When herbs or other ingredients start to wilt or lose their color, it can make the dish look unappetizing and unappealing in photographs. For this reason, it's important to use fresh ingredients and replace them as needed during the shoot.

Remember! Remember! Remember! If the food on the plates looks good, so will the photos. If the foods a mess…

By following these tips, you can ensure that your catering business's dishes and team look their best in photographs. With careful preparation and attention to detail, your food will not only taste delicious but look beautiful too.

Food Snobbery

As a commercial photographer and food photographer, I have encountered food snobbery in my line of work. It's not uncommon for me to photograph food in high-end restaurants, Michelin-starred establishments, and even cozy cafes. While I am open to working with all types of businesses, I have noticed that the snobbery in smarter restaurants can be quite prevalent.

During my shoots, I have often heard comments about how their competitors have lesser quality foods or how they are superior because they have more awards. It's disheartening to see such behavior in the industry, especially since food is meant to be enjoyed and shared.

Food snobbery not only creates a toxic environment in the restaurant industry, but it can also be harmful to smaller businesses that may not have the same resources or recognition as their competitors. It's important to remember that food is subjective, and what one person may find delicious, another may not. Additionally, having a Michelin star or other awards does not automatically make a restaurant better than its competitors.

As a photographer, my job is to showcase the beauty and artistry of the food, regardless of where it comes from or who makes it. I believe that every restaurant, no matter its size or reputation, deserves the same respect and appreciation for the hard work that goes into creating delicious dishes.

In conclusion, I urge those in the restaurant industry to let go of their biases and embrace the diversity and creativity that comes with food. Let's focus on the joy and satisfaction that food brings, rather than trying to prove superiority over others. As a photographer, I am honored to capture the essence of every dish and every restaurant, without any preconceived notions or biases.

#foodphotography

An Age of Egocentrism and Hyper-individualism with the Emergence of Social Media

It is true that social media has had a significant impact on the way we think about ourselves and our place in society. On one hand, social media can help us connect with others and build communities around shared interests and values. However, social media can also contribute to a culture of hyperindividualism and egocentrism, where people are primarily focused on promoting their own image and personal brand, rather than building meaningful relationships with others.

One of the ways social media can contribute to egocentrism is by incentivizing people to curate and showcase an idealized version of themselves. Social media platforms often reward users who have large followings or who generate high levels of engagement with their posts. This can lead people to focus more on creating content that will be popular or well-received, rather than expressing their authentic selves.

In addition, social media can create a sense of competition and comparison, as people constantly compare themselves to others and worry about how they are perceived by their followers. This can lead to a preoccupation with personal success and achievement, rather than a focus on building meaningful relationships and contributing to the larger community.

Overall, while social media can be a powerful tool for connection and self-expression, it is important to be mindful of the ways in which it can contribute to egocentrism and hyperindividualism. By staying grounded in our values and focusing on building authentic connections with others, we can use social media in a way that supports our personal growth and contributes to the greater good.

I Ummed & Ahed About Posting About Andropause!

As someone who is self-employed, I have faced many challenges throughout my journey. However, one challenge that I never anticipated was going through male menopause, also known as andropause.

Male menopause is a taboo subject that is often not talked about, but it is a very real experience for many men including myself. As I began experiencing symptoms such as hot flushes to the extent where I just had to sit down and let it pass, fatigue, mood swings, and decreased libido, I found it difficult to talk about what I was going through with others, especially in a professional setting.

As a self-employed individual, I was already dealing with the stress of running my own business and managing my workload, and the added stress of male menopause made things even more challenging. I found myself struggling to stay focused on my work and feeling more irritable and anxious than usual.

However, I have found that talking to women friends of mine has been incredibly helpful. Women have a unique perspective on hormonal changes as they often experience menopause themselves, and they can offer a supportive and non-judgmental ear to listen to my concerns.

Talking to my women friends has also helped me to feel less isolated in my experience. It can be easy to feel alone when going through something that is not commonly discussed, but hearing from others who have gone through similar experiences has helped me to feel more connected and understood.

Do You Book Days Off in Your Small business?

I'm so glad I booked a Friday off today. When I was employed, I used to love taking a day off here and there to recharge, and it feels good to have done the same today. These past four weeks have been incredibly busy, and yesterday was particularly exhausting. I had to wake up at 4:30 am and didn't get home until 10 pm. By the end of the day, I was completely drained and in desperate need of some time to myself.

But today, I finally have the chance to catch up on all the things I've been neglecting. I'm going to start by getting my hair cut., Something I've been putting off for far too long. After that, I think I'll treat myself to a nice cup of coffee at my favorite café. It'll be great to just sit down and relax for a while.

I also have a few emails that I need to catch up on, so I'm looking forward to taking care of those this afternoon. It feels good to finally have the time to get things done and take care of myself. Overall, I'm just grateful for this little break and the chance to recharge before jumping back into my busy schedule.

Ray

#selfcare

Thank You

Dear Friends,

I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for the incredible support that I have received on my journey as a multi-award-winning commercial photographer. It has been a wild ride, and I am so grateful for every opportunity that has come my way.

But with success comes exhaustion, and I must admit that I am feeling a little overwhelmed by the flood of enquiries and bookings that have come my way lately. It is a good problem to have, but it can also be emotionally draining.

In times like these, it is important to remember the people who have been there for us through thick and thin. For me, that person is Michael. He has been a constant source of support and encouragement, and I am so grateful for his unwavering belief in me.

To Michael, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support has meant more to me than you can ever know, and I am so grateful for the role that you have played in my success.

Of course, I am also thankful to all of my clients, colleagues, and supporters who have helped me to get to where I am today. Your trust in my vision and your willingness to collaborate on creative projects have been a true inspiration.

And finally, I want to acknowledge the memory of my parents, who I know would be so proud of me if they were here to see the success I have achieved. Their love and support were the foundation upon which I built my career, and I will always be grateful for their unwavering belief in me.

In closing, I want to express my gratitude for all of the love and support that I have received on my journey as a commercial photographer. It is a dream come true, and I am grateful for every moment of it.

With gratitude,

Ray Jones

#thankful

I Work with Businesses that Care About Their Online Appearance

As a multi award-winning food photographer, I have had the pleasure of working with some of the smartest gastro pubs, restaurants, and hotels in the industry. I understand the importance of a strong online presence and the impact that visually stunning images can have on a business's success.

My passion for food photography is evident in every project I take on. I strive to capture the essence of each dish, highlighting its unique textures, colors, and flavors. Whether it's a juicy burger or an elegant dessert, I approach each shoot with creativity and attention to detail.

My clients trust me to deliver exceptional results that showcase their culinary expertise and attract new customers. I work closely with each client to understand their vision and bring it to life through my lens.

If you're looking to elevate your online presence and showcase your culinary creations in the best possible light, I would love to work with you. Please don't hesitate to get in touch to learn more about my services and how I can help your business stand out in a crowded online space.

Being With Chef is Magical

Being in a chef's kitchen is a magical experience for me. I love being surrounded by the smells and sounds of cooking, and watching as skilled hands craft beautiful dishes. As a photographer, there's nothing more exciting than capturing those moments of culinary creativity and artistry.

I'm a professional photographer with a passion for food and photography, there are few experiences more rewarding than photographing a talented chef at work. Here are just a few reasons why:

1. Capturing the beauty of food

For me, food is a visual medium, and chefs are artists who use ingredients as their medium. As a photographer, I have the opportunity to capture the beauty and complexity of each dish, from the colors and textures to the intricate details that make each plate unique.

2. Telling a story

Every dish that comes out of a chef's kitchen has a story behind it, from the inspiration and ingredients to the techniques and flavors used. As a photographer, I have the opportunity to tell that story through my images, capturing the essence of the dish and the culinary vision of the chef.

3. Documenting the creative process

Watching a chef at work is like watching a master painter at work, with each dish a new canvas to be filled with color, texture, and flavor. As a photographer, I have the opportunity to document that creative process, capturing the moments of inspiration, experimentation, and refinement that go into each dish.

4. Building relationships

For me, photography is about more than just capturing images; it's about building relationships with my subjects and creating a sense of trust and collaboration. By working closely with a chef and his team, I have the opportunity to build those relationships and create a lasting connection that goes beyond the lens.

In conclusion, photographing a chef at work is a unique and rewarding experience for me. It allows me to capture the beauty of food, tell a story, document the creative process, and build lasting relationships.

Online Disinhibition

Online disinhibition is a phenomenon that occurs when people behave differently online than they would in face-to-face interactions. In some cases, this can lead to positive behaviors such as increased self-disclosure and support for others. However, online disinhibition can also lead to negative behaviors such as cyberbullying, flaming, and trolling.

One of the hypocrisies of online disinhibition is that people may behave in ways online that they would never consider acceptable in person. For example, someone who is normally kind and respectful in person may engage in aggressive or vitriolic behavior online. This can lead to a sense of dissonance between a person's online and offline identities, and can sometimes lead to negative consequences.

Another hypocrisy of online disinhibition is that people may promote positive values such as kindness and empathy online while engaging in negative behavior offline. For example, someone who posts messages of support and encouragement online may engage in discriminatory behavior in their personal life. This can lead to a sense of cognitive dissonance, where a person's online and offline behavior is inconsistent.

It is important to remember that online behavior has real-world consequences, and that online interactions can have a significant impact on people's lives and well-being. While it can be tempting to engage in negative behavior online, it is important to promote positive values such as respect, civility, and empathy in all our interactions, whether they take place online or in person. By treating others with kindness and consideration, we can help to create a more positive and welcoming society both online and offline.

In conclusion, while online disinhibition can lead to positive behaviors such as increased self-disclosure and support for others, it can also lead to negative behaviors such as cyberbullying, flaming, and trolling. It is important to remain aware of the hypocrisies of online disinhibition and to promote positive values in all our interactions, whether they take place online or offline. By doing so, we can help to create a more positive and welcoming society for all.

Helping Other Creatives

Starting a business is an exciting journey. As entrepreneurs, we tend to focus on our own goals, our own products or services, and our own success. However, what many of us fail to realize is that true success in business often comes from helping others succeed.

I recently had the pleasure of collaborating with Wendy Taylor, a surrealist artist based in Whitchurch. Wendy's work is truly unique, and I was immediately drawn to her creative vision and artistic talent. As a photographer, I knew that I could help Wendy promote her work by capturing stunning images of her art.

Our collaboration was a success, and I was proud to see the impact that our work had on Wendy's business. By showcasing her art through my photography, we were able to bring her work to a wider audience and help her gain more recognition as an artist.

This experience taught me an important lesson about the power of collaboration in business. While it's easy to get caught up in our own goals and ambitions, the truth is that we can achieve so much more when we work together with other businesses and creatives.

Collaboration allows us to pool our strengths and resources, share ideas and expertise, and create something truly unique and impactful. By helping others succeed, we can also benefit from their success, as we build strong relationships, gain exposure to new audiences, and expand our own networks.

Of course, collaboration isn't always easy. It requires a willingness to be open and flexible, communicate effectively, and be willing to put in the time and effort required to make the collaboration a success.

But the rewards of collaboration are well worth the effort. By working together with other businesses and creatives, we can achieve great things and make a real difference in the world. So, if you're an entrepreneur or business owner, I encourage you to look for opportunities to collaborate with others and help them succeed. You never know where it might take you!