Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Fay
Hi Emily, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
After earning my degree in interior design, my husband and I moved frequently, which inspired me to start documenting the different foods I encountered along the way. I launched a blog to showcase these experiences, and after about a year, I realized that while I wasn’t as passionate about cooking, I truly loved the photography side of running a food blog. With a foundational knowledge of photography from high school courses, I decided to sharpen my skills by taking food-focused online courses. In 2019, I landed my first blogger client, which opened up exciting opportunities!
Since then, I’ve had the privilege of creating content for major brands like Dole and Nestlé, as well as collaborating with a variety of talented food bloggers and private chefs to showcase their incredible dishes. Today, I continue to work with food bloggers and private chefs, while also expanding my portfolio to include restaurant projects, food photography based retreats, and contributions to a farm-to-table magazine. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful for every opportunity to bring food stories to life through photography.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. The entrepreneurial path, especially in a creative field like food photography, is full of challenges and learning moments. From the beginning, there was a steep learning curve—building a cohesive and visually appealing website, creating a strong portfolio, and, of course, finding clients who connected with my work. There were times when self-doubt crept in, as it can for many starting their own business. I often wondered if I needed big-name clients or a perfect portfolio to call myself a professional. Over time, I realized that building a portfolio is a gradual process, and every step, every shoot, contributes to growth and finding clients who align with your vision and style.
Another challenge was navigating the often solitary nature of entrepreneurship. It can feel isolating at times, which is why finding a supportive network has been so valuable. Connecting with other photographers, sharing insights, and learning from those who have faced similar obstacles has been incredibly uplifting. I’ve also been fortunate to have a wonderfully supportive husband who has believed in my goals and cheered me on every step of the way. It’s been a journey of growth, resilience, and, above all, passion for the craft.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My work focuses on commercial food and product photography, recipe development, food styling, and photography education. I am passionate about bringing food to life, highlighting its textures, colors, and the stories behind each dish.
One aspect that sets me apart is my holistic approach to food photography. Beyond capturing stunning images, I delve into recipe development and food styling, ensuring that every element aligns with the client’s vision. This approach allows me to create visuals that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also authentic and appetizing!
I am particularly proud of my collaborations with renowned brands, where I had the opportunity to create content that resonated with their audiences. Additionally, working with food bloggers and local restaurants has been incredibly rewarding, as it allows me to showcase their unique culinary perspectives and help them connect with their followers through compelling visuals!
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
There are so many incredible resources that have made a meaningful impact on my journey, both professionally and personally. One standout resource is Joanie Simon from The Bite Shot. Her YouTube channel is a treasure trove of free and insightful content, covering everything from lighting techniques to business tips for food photographers. Her generosity and expertise have been invaluable to countless photographers, including myself.
Another resource that has deeply influenced me is the Food Photography Corner. They’ve created an exceptional community for food photographers, fostering connection, learning, and growth. I’ve had the privilege of helping them run their last two photography retreats, which were not only enriching but also brought together a diverse group of talented individuals, each sharing their unique experiences.
Beyond photography-specific resources, I am a passionate reader and believe deeply in the power of continuous learning. My office is stacked with books that inspire me. Two favorites that stand out are The Secret Lives of Color, which explores the rich history and cultural significance of colors—a vital aspect of photography—and The Mountain is You, a powerful exploration of self-sabotage and personal transformation. Both have offered unique insights that I apply in my creative work and daily life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.emilyfayphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flavorinframe/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilyfayphotography
- Twitter: https://x.com/flavorinframe
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@flavorinframe
