One of the best parts of commercial product photography is getting to work with passionate small business owners who truly love what they create. I recently had the pleasure of photographing Patti and Sharon, the owners of One Steep at a Time, as part of a marketing project through Cornell Cooperative Extension. Their business specializes in loose-leaf and iced teas, and the goal of our session was to create professional images that help tell the story of their products and brand.
I’ll admit, I may have been a little biased going into this project—I’m already a regular customer! Their teas have become part of my morning routine, so it was especially rewarding to photograph products I genuinely enjoy.
What immediately stood out during the session was the incredible variety of colors found in the loose-leaf teas. Each blend had its own unique combination of leaves, herbs, flowers, and fruit, creating beautiful textures and natural patterns that are impossible to appreciate through packaging alone. Photographing the teas both as loose leaves and as brewed beverages allowed us to showcase the craftsmanship that goes into every blend.
While photography is naturally a visual experience, this session engaged more than just my camera. Opening each container released a different aroma, from bright citrus notes to warm spices and rich herbal blends. Although a photograph can’t capture those scents, creating images that invite viewers to imagine the experience is part of what makes food and beverage photography so rewarding.
Along with highlighting the teas themselves, we created product images designed for websites, online stores, social media, and other marketing materials. Professional product photography helps customers quickly understand the quality of a product, builds trust in a brand, and creates a polished, consistent look across all marketing platforms.
This project is one of many I’ve completed over the years (since 2019 in fact!) in partnership with Cornell Cooperative Extension as they work with food entrepreneurs to strengthen their marketing efforts. By combining professional photography with business development resources, local producers are better equipped to tell their stories, connect with customers, and grow their businesses.
Working with Patti and Sharon was a wonderful experience, and I left with an even greater appreciation for the care that goes into every blend they create. If you’re a tea lover, One Steep at a Time offers an impressive selection of loose-leaf and iced teas that are as beautiful to look at as they are enjoyable to drink.
