Why do Restaurants Need Fresh Imagery?

A Look at the Grist photoshoot

At House of Samantha, our sister company, we understand that exceptional food photography goes beyond capturing delectable dishes; it encompasses the essence of the venue and the brand itself. Our recent collaboration with Grist, a beloved provisions café in Ohio, exemplified this holistic approach. Together, we embarked on a styling session and photoshoot that not only highlighted Grist's culinary offerings but also told the story of their journey and commitment to the Dayton community.

Founded by husband-and-wife team Casey and Patrick Van Voorhis, Grist has become a cornerstone in downtown Dayton's culinary scene. The couple met at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, and after honing their skills in San Francisco's fine dining establishments, they returned to Casey's roots near Dayton. Their mission: to provide down-to-earth home cooks with high-quality provisions and the tools they need to create memorable meals. Grist offers a unique blend of dining experiences, from enjoying a meticulously crafted lunch or dinner in their casual, counter-service restaurant to purchasing freshly rolled pastas, sauces, breads, and desserts to elevate home-cooked meals. They also host cooking classes and accept holiday orders, fostering a sense of community and culinary education.

In planning the photoshoot, our goal was to authentically represent Grist's brand identity. We selected surfaces and materials that resonated with the café's aesthetic - think rustic wooden boards, artisanal ceramics, and natural textiles. These elements not only complemented the visual appeal of the dishes but also reflected Grist's philosophy of providing "provisions with intention." By incorporating the café's ambiance into the styling, we aimed to create images that would entice customers and convey the warmth and approachability that Grist embodies.

Food photography presents unique challenges, especially when working with fresh, perishable items. Pasta, for instance, can dry out and become brittle, while sauces may separate over time. During our session at Grist, we embraced a flexible approach, adapting our shot list and plans in real-time to accommodate the nuances of each dish. This adaptability ensured that we captured each item at its peak, preserving the integrity and appeal of the food. Our on-the-spot styling decisions were guided by the textures, colors, and compositions that best showcased Grist's offerings, resulting in imagery that feels both spontaneous and meticulously crafted.

The success of this project was rooted in the collaborative spirit between House of Samantha and the Grist team. Casey and Patrick's passion for their craft and their deep understanding of their brand provided invaluable insights that informed our creative direction. Their hands-on involvement, from selecting dishes to suggesting styling elements, ensured that the final images were a true reflection of Grist's identity. This partnership exemplifies how open communication and shared vision can lead to compelling visual storytelling.

In today's digital landscape, consumers often "eat with their eyes" first. High-quality, up-to-date imagery is essential for engaging both new and returning customers. For Grist, the new suite of photographs serves multiple purposes: enhancing their website and social media presence, enriching marketing materials, and providing visual content for press features. By showcasing their current menu selections and the inviting atmosphere of their café, these images help to build a strong, cohesive brand identity that resonates with their audience.

Our collaboration with Grist was a testament to the power of thoughtful, brand-aligned food photography. By focusing on both the culinary creations and the environment in which they're enjoyed, we crafted a visual narrative that invites customers to experience the heart and soul of Grist. We look forward to future projects that celebrate the unique stories of local businesses through the art of photography.

The new House of Samantha website is up, please check it out here. If you would like to stay up-to-date with House of Samantha updates, sign up here!

Photography by Chelsea Hall