Blog by Los Angeles Food Photographer & Recipe Developer Alison Ashton

Want to Make Gnocchi Tonight? Grab a Sheet Pan

Roasting summer tomatoes along with gnocchi on a sheet pan makes for an easy summer dinner with minimal cleanup.

Yakitori Chicken: How a Recipe Develops When the Brief Has Two Needs

Content Strategy Tips, Recipe Development

Classic yakitori chicken with tare sauce, developed for a PARADE Magazine brief with two goals. Recipe + the editorial thinking behind it.

Should Your Brand Chase the Birria Trend? Here’s How One Client Decided

Content Strategy Tips, Recipe Development

Here’s how I worked with a client to decide if a trendy birria recipe was the right fit for their audience. I talk a lot about food trends and recipe development. When it comes to food content on social media, trends cycle quickly, and the challenge for any brand or...

Why I Save Some Food Posts and Scroll Past Others (a Recipe Developer’s Take)

Content Strategy Tips

After years of saving food posts, I noticed the same patterns. Here’s what I’ve learned about food content that gets saved and what that means for a brand’s content strategy.

When a Food Trend Makes Sense for Your Brand (and When It Doesn’t)

Food Trends

Not every food trend deserves your budget. Here’s a practical guide to know when to jump in and when to keep scrolling.

Restaurant Kitchen Equipment Home Cooks Should Steal

Kitchen Tips

Restaurant kitchen equipment is cheaper, tougher, and more versatile than home versions. Here are the tools I use daily & where to get them.

Does Your Brand Really Need Professional Photography?

Food Photography

For food & beverage brands, professional photography isn’t just about looking polished. It’s about content that sells. Here’s what to know before you book.