When it comes to culinary icons, few names carry as much global weight—and style—as
Marcus Samuelsson.
Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised, and New York–refined, Marcus is more than a chef; he’s a cultural force. From television hits like
Top Chef Masters and Chopped to bestselling cookbooks and restaurants across continents, Marcus is no stranger to the lens.

That made this shoot both exciting—and, if I’m being honest—slightly nerve-wracking.

Celebrity Photography Meets Culinary Art

Photographing a celebrity of Marcus’s caliber comes with an unspoken pressure. Not just to capture a good image, but to deliver a shoot that feels seamless, fast, and respectful of his time. Before he arrived, I ran through every mental and technical checklist—meticulous about lighting, angles, and timing. In this type of celebrity portrait session, there’s no room for warm-ups. Every frame has to count.

The surprising part? We wrapped in under 20 minutes. Marcus knew exactly how to move in front of the camera. There’s a rhythm to working with someone who understands both sides of storytelling—he made subtle adjustments with intention, eliminating the need for much direction. It was clear I was working with someone who’s spent years in front of the lens and knows what the camera needs.

Inside the World of Luxury Restaurant Photography

The setting for the shoot—his stunning culinary space—was just as much a character as Marcus himself. Capturing the atmosphere of a fine-dining restaurant requires more than good lighting; it demands a sense of intimacy and texture that mirrors the chef’s own artistry. From the gleam of kitchen tools to the subtle design choices that reflect Marcus’s global influence, every frame needed to feel curated yet natural.

As a photographer who often works in luxury hospitality and restaurant environments, this was one of those rare moments where the subject, setting, and story aligned perfectly. It reminded me how powerful a single shoot can be—not just in capturing someone’s likeness, but in translating their energy into imagery that endures.

A Memorable Collaboration

We ended up spending more time talking than shooting—swapping stories about food, travel, and culture. It was less a photoshoot and more a collaboration between creatives who care deeply about craft. That connection made the experience one of the most memorable of my career to date.

Working with Marcus wasn’t just about capturing a moment; it was about being present for one.