Black Stallion Winery

Dec 17

Upscale Product Photography for Award-Winning Winery

Brand Overview

Black Stallion Winery is a renowned winery dedicated to crafting exceptional wines. With a hands-on approach and a deep understanding of their vineyards, they produce unforgettable wines that have earned them prestigious accolades, including the 2023 American Winery of the Year award from Wine Enthusiast.

Project Objective

To create a series of sophisticated, product-focused images, showcasing Black Stallion Winery's North Coast brand in a rugged coastal setting. The brand specifically requested a more overcast setting, either on a dock or near a walking trail, emphasizing the brand's timeless and refined aesthetic, while avoiding picnic or tropical vibes.

Production Challenges

Balancing the brand's desire for an overcast coastal aesthetic with the constraints of a public location, mid-summer weather, and uncontrolled lighting conditions. While it was already somewhat tricky to create an upscale coastal vibe without appearing beachy or picnicy, the real challenge presented itself when the dock location I scouted beforehand was lined with fishermen on the evening of my shoot.

Creative Process

While the ideal dock location was occupied, I adapted by using a nearby boardwalk as a suitable alternative. As an added bonus, this boardwalk was shaded from direct sunlight by a nearby building thereby giving us softer lighting to work with just as the brand had requested. To elevate the scene and avoid a picnic-like atmosphere, I opted for laying down a neutral tablecloth, adding simple charcuterie props, and styling the models in classic, timeless attire.