My assistant Nicholas and I will be working on the next piece for the July issue of Renaissance Magazine. A lot of work goes into putting the package together.
First, we discuss and select a recipe. This is a challenge as we want to be “period correct” in our selection, have nice plate presentation, and have it taste good. Several recipes that are “very” period correct do not look very good plated or taste very good. So Nicholas and I attempt to find a happy medium.
Second, Nicholas and I head off to the market to pick up the ingredients that are needed to accomplish the recipe and the eventual plating.
Third, Nicholas and I go about cooking. From the time we arrive back into the kitchen to final plating, the process usually takes 3 hours.
Fourth, we take our time prepping the plate, the lighting, the table for the best view of the dish for Renaissance Magazine. In all, we usually take between 30-75 shots. The photos are reviewed, cleaned up (a bit), and prepped for print (high resolution, size, etc.)
Fifth, Writing the recipe is easy. Providing the research and the history of why this dish was chosen and the background information on the food, herbs, and/or techniques used all become part of the final wrap.
Sixth, final review, proof reading, and packaging the segment up for Renaissance Magazine to use.
As you can see, it is a long process, but worth it.