Head Chef Chavdar Todorov has been working in professional kitchens for over 15 years. His ample knowledge of ingredients and fusing of different cuisines characterise his latest venture. SlowBurn opened its door in November 2020, during the national lockdown, and promised one thing: healthy, vegan-friendly food for the local community of Walthamstow. We joined forces to create stunning restaurant photography of his London kitchen.
The SlowBurn London restaurant photography brief
Chef Chavdar had a very clear vision for this shoot. As a backdrop, we used the same large wooden table. Similarly, the mood for this shoot was warm and inviting. Lastly, we discussed a few types of shots that I needed to take.
As a first step. he wanted single dish shots from above of all the dishes. In order get interesting yet coherent shots, I styled each each dish in a similar setting, to ensure continuity throughout.
He also wanted shots of tables set for one person, two people or a group. The reason for these table shots was to give customers an idea of what their meal could look like. These are some of my favourite images to shoot. I also had to use of all the props I had hired for this occasion. I made sure to use different chairs
Lastly, SlowBurn is located inside Blackhorse Lane Ateliers, London’s only craft jeans factory. We therefore took some shots with the iconic denim apron, while highlighting the fresh produce used in some of the dishes.
Blackhorse Lane Ateliers Apron & Fresh Produce Blackhorse Lane Ateliers Apron & Fresh Produce Blackhorse Lane Ateliers Apron & Fresh Produce
A smokehouse with a twist
SlowBurn is now famous for its smoked chicken. The reason is simple! The chicken is brined overnight, then rubbed with the special house rub and Gochujang, and finally smoked with apple wood. And while this dish is a customer favourite, SlowBurn’s philosophy remains one of eating less meat. Vegetarian and vegan dishes take centre stage and make up the majority of the menu. From whole cauliflower to Jerusalem artichokes and celeriac, vegetables rein supreme.
The nitty gritty
This shoot lasted two days. I shot the entire menu, as well as a chef portrait of Head Chef Chavdar. Following the shoot, I also took over all of the SlowBurn social media channels.
If you want to see more of my work, have a look at my portfolio or my shoot at The Haberdashery in Stoke Newington.
Lastly, don’t forget! You can always connect with me on Instagram.
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