What do you do with Raw Cocoa Beans?

My car is my mobile office and it’s sometimes full of odd things. Today it has a 25 pound bag of raw cocoa beans that I brought back from a Little Rock photo shoot to return to someone as a favor for a client.

On my trip back last night I began to question when I would ever be in possession of this many beans again. So I did what any creative person would do… I borrowed the bag for a quick photo shoot at my studio this morning. I couldn’t really pass up burlap bags, beans, a giant silver scoop and beautiful window light.

I really enjoy photographing food and also products, so this was a fun combination of the two. I tried to play with the textures of the props, and play with the light. I tend to shoot everything really bright, and lately I’ve been playing with a darker style that seems to be a bit trendy right now. It’s fun to take personal time to try to expand my knowledge of photography, and push myself out of my comfort zone.

I would love to hear any feedback. Thanks!