Let It Sink In
If you’re anything like me, you forget to set aside time to reflect on completed project and you move on to the next thing on your to-do list. I’m working on changing that by reflecting on my journey photographing Kult’s menu to documenting their grand opening.
Always Capture Behind the Scenes
The photojournalist in me is constantly seeing and observing. I get to know people during the in between moments. Sure I had my lighting all setup to rotate in plates from the kitchen and cocktails from the bar, I made sure to document the process. I was able to see the attention to detail that Nino strived for. I witnessed his older sister carefully advise Cher while crafting the cocktails. Everything we talked about prior to shooting was on display - high quality products demand high quality representation.
Creating the Kult Vibe
As I mentioned in my “Advocate For Yourself” post, the client relationship all started with answering an IG story and eventually got hired to assist Kult’s marketing efforts leading up to their grand opening. I had put a lot of pressure on myself to nail these product shots and deliver on the dark and moody vibe Nino and Cher were looking for. I appreciated the aesthetic and it was important to get it right as this was my first full menu shoot and I was tasked with setting the standard for their brand. Seeing the results of the printed menu and hearing the positive feedback has been gratifying. Knowing that every patron will be holding each image in their hands is humbling.
Grand Opening Gala Event
Seeing Nino and Cher’s vision for Kult come to life was a reminder that you have to take risks and surround yourself with good people. The Kult team stepped up to the plate during their 2-night, red carpet Gala Event. It was great seeing the community support and the energy that they brought to the space.
Letting It Sink In
While the level of effort to get all of the marketing materials completed in time for the Kult opening. It pales in comparison to everything that Nino and Cher had to endure. They were set to open, but the lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic shut everything down. For over a year, the two used that time to tailor the offering and finish the interior design of the space. They entered one of the most demanding industries and opened a truly unique space in Downtown SLO.
With this being my first serious media job in the food industry, I’m extremely proud of everything I created with the Kult family. It illustrates what you can accomplish when you have clear direction and a strong supporting cast. Congratulations to everyone.
