Podcast Interview with Mica McCook (part 2 of ?)
This interview was a lot of fun, I really enjoyed talking to Mica!
I decided to experiment and see what ChatGPT could do with the transcript! LOL
In our chat with Francesco, the maestro behind the lens, we uncovered the intriguing tale of his initiation into the world of food photography, particularly his memorable stint with Eataly. Buckle up for a behind-the-scenes look at how a simple bag of pasta transformed into a groundbreaking approach that revolutionized product photography.
** HAHAH, ok ChatGPT, you might have gone too far now! 🤣
From Cheese to Eataly: The Early Days
Francesco's culinary journey began modestly with a cheese-shooting gig for a friend in 2012. Little did he know, this laid the foundation for what would become a pivotal moment in his career. Fast forward to a friend tipping him off about a food photography opportunity at Eataly, and the stage was set for Francesco's groundbreaking entry into the realm of gastronomic visuals.
Cracking the Nut: A Challenge Accepted
Armed with limited experience in food photography, Francesco faced the challenge of making commonplace items like a bag of cereal stand out online. Eataly's marketing team sought innovation, pushing Francesco to think outside the box—or, in this case, outside the bag.
** HAHA funny! 🤣
Breaking the Barriers (and Bars): A Stroke of Genius
Frustration loomed as Francesco experimented with traditional shots, attempting to breathe life into mundane products. It was during a moment of relaxed experimentation that he stumbled upon a stroke of genius. Opening up a candy bar revealed an entirely new world inside, and Francesco knew he had struck gold.
Embracing a macro lens and a shallow depth of field, he captured the intricate details of the Nougat, adding a layer of depth and intrigue to the otherwise routine photoshoot. The concept of showcasing both the exterior and interior of a product emerged—a game-changer in the world of e-commerce.
** ‘game changer’? Really? Once again, you went a bit too far ChatGPT! LOL
Eataly's Green Light: 500 Products, One Photographer
Eataly loved the innovative approach. Francesco's proposal of presenting primary and secondary photos for each product resonated, setting the stage for a colossal project—photographing 500 products in a little over two months. The sheer excitement and challenge fueled Francesco's determination.
Wizardry Unleashed: A Studio in a Corner
Armed with a modest corner in Eataly's studio, Francesco transformed the limited space into a hub of creativity. The journey involved photographing, reviewing, and repeating the process, all while Eataly's bustling office space loomed in the background.
Efficiency Unveiled: Outsourcing Post-Production
Recognizing the workload of post-production, Francesco opted for a strategic move—outsourcing. Hiring freelancers from India and beyond, he delegated the repetitive background removal and shadow creation tasks, liberating his time for new ventures.
In the end, Francesco's journey with Eataly was not just about photography; it was about pushing boundaries, finding innovative solutions, and turning mundane moments into masterpieces. From a bag of pasta to a studio wizard, Francesco's story echoes the power of creativity, persistence, and a dash of unconventional thinking in the world of food photography.
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