PROJECTS
The Secret Life of Chocolate Chip cookies
Client: Marissa Rothkopf Bates
Agency: Page Street Publishing
Project: Plated recipe photography for The Secret Life of Chocolate Chips cookbook
THE BRIEF
Marissa and Page Street Publishing hired me to create images of prepared cookies, in-process recipes, chapter openers and the cover for The Secret Life of Chocolate Chip Cookies cookbook. The total shot count was 72 images, including the author photo.
THE PLAN
Marissa and I worked out of her home to style and photograph each recipe over the course of a few weeks during the 2024 holiday season. While I usually map out every cookbook image well in advance, this shoot had a more flexible rhythm. I gathered inspiration for some of the larger recipes in each chapter, then we built the surrounding images to create balance — mixing close-up and pulled-back shots, colorful spreads and muted palettes, soft light and crisp contrast — all to give the book variety and flow.
Marissa’s vision was clear: every photo should keep the cookie front and center with minimal props. We leaned into that simplicity, occasionally adding just a hint of whimsy to give certain images extra personality. The looser approach extended behind the camera too; I shot many of the images hand-held instead of locked on a tripod, which kept the energy relaxed and spontaneous.
And because no shoot is complete without a little surprise, Marissa’s family adopted a new puppy right in the middle of it all — Norman! You’ll spot more of his sweet face in the BTS section below.
THE RESULTS
BEHIND THE SCENES
Client MARISSA ROTHKOPF BATES | Agency PAGE STREET PUBLISHING | Food Styling MARISSA ROTHKOPF BATES
Do you need a cookbook photographer who can handle the details while bringing creativity (and plenty of flavor) to every page? With over a decade of experience photographing recipes, I know how to balance logistics with artistry to create images that draw readers in and keep them inspired.
From logistics to final images, I’ll help your cookbook shine.