Hello lovelies!  Today I'm thrilled to introduce you to one of the most inspirational food photographers and stylist I've ever come across... Aran of Cannelle et Vanille.  I first discovered Aran's work on her flickr and have been following her with rapt attention ever since.  Her passion for food truly comes through in her photographs (can you believe she is a self-taught photographer and has only been taking photographs for less than a year)!  I had the delightful opportunity to ask Aran a few questions about her work and I hope you will find her answers as inspiring as I do.

You are an extraordinary food photographer... when and how did you get your start and what are a few of the challenges you face when styling your beautiful shots?

I am flattered!  To be honest, I didn’t know anything about photography until I started my blog less than a year ago. My focus was food but I quickly realized that my images had to be as good as the food I was creating, so my focus shifted towards becoming a better photographer.
I only shoot in natural light, so my main challenge is finding the perfect light during the day. I have really developed a new eye for it. Also, some desserts like ice cream or soufflé are very temperature and time sensitive so capturing a perfect shot is always a challenge.

You not only take gorgeous photos of food, but you create the recipes for them as well!  What is your favorite recipe of all time and why?

I come from a family of pastry chefs and have worked in professional kitchens for years so my first love is recipe development. I have a thing for laminated doughs and I recently tried Pierre Herme’s chocolate pâte feuilletée and it was out of this world.

 Where does your inspiration come from when you create a new recipe or compose a shot?

I get that question a lot and the truth is from many places. Everyday life. I have to say that ingredients really inspire me. Going to a market and finding excellent produce is my main inspiration but I find inspiration in music, art, a mood, the light, a photo… Also vessels really inspire me. If I find an antique bowl or an old cup, I will be able to create a dessert around that.

What advice would you give to those interested in finding a career in food photography?

I think natural works best with food. Natural light, natural props, nothing should be overdone. Stick to your style and what comes natural to you. Develop your style. I really love when I can see a photo and identify the photographer.
It’s also very important to “feel” the food that you are photographing and know how it was prepared because the method itself can really inspire a shot.

What is your favorite quote or words of wisdom that you live by?

“Everything comes to you when you are ready” and “to receive, you must give first.”

Find more from Aran {BLOG} . {FLICKR}