London Bar Photography Archives

January 14, 2025 — Comments are off for this post.

Tacos, Tequila, and Danny Trejo: Behind the Scenes at Two Taco Photoshoots in Notting Hill’s New Hotspot

Mexican Food Photography in London — *Tacos, Tequila and Hot Sauce: Photoshoot for Trejo's Tacos UK*

When Hollywood icon Danny Trejo decided to bring his renowned Los Angeles taco venture to London's Notting Hill, it was clear that Trejo's Tacos UK would make a significant impact.

I worked on two taco photoshoots with the team - the first just before their opening to capture the menu, cocktails, and interiors, and the second a few months later to highlight group settings, party vibes, and new additions to the menu.

First Shoot: Menu, Cocktails, and Interiors

For the first shoot, I focused on the menu, the bold cocktails, and the stunning interiors that set the tone for Trejo’s UK debut. This was the epitome of a taco photoshoot! Think tacos, tequila, hot sauce, and the restaurant's beautiful design.

Tequila Cocktail Photoshoot — *Launching Trejo's Tacos in the UK*

Social first photography for trejo's tacos

The team chose a mix of tacos, nachos and churros from the menu, as well as a selection of cocktails. We shot them around the restaurant, showcasing the stunning, bright interiors.

Cocktail Photography Notting Hill — *A taco photoshoot done right*

Nachos and Guacamole Photography — *A taco photoshoot done right*

interior restaurant photography

The space, just off Portobello Road, is a visual feast. The earthy tones, pops of green from cacti and foliage, and the al fresco terrace seating created a warm, inviting vibe. Every detail, from the wall art, featuring Danny Trejo and luchadores, to the lighting, was designed to be as Instagrammable as it is functional.

Restaurant Interiors Photography UK — *Earthy tones and luchadores kissing: the unique interiors at Trejo's UK*

Trejo's Tacos UK Notting Hill — *Earthy tones and luchadores kissing: the unique interiors at Trejo's UK*

Second Shoot: Group Settings, Party Bookings, and Action Shots

Our follow-up shoot concentrated on the dynamic aspects of Trejo's Tacos UK, highlighting its suitability for group gatherings, as well as the newly renovated downstairs and some new menu items.

@adashandasplash Best Photographer in London — *A different focus for our second shoot*

Photographing the Downstairs Space

The intimate downstairs area is ideal for private events and parties, featuring a fully stocked bar and seating arrangements that cater to various group sizes. I captured the versatility and charm of this space, emphasising its appeal for social gatherings.

I captured the space both empty and set up for a group, showcasing tables in two lighting styles to reflect the atmosphere of both daytime and evening.

Action Shots

To convey the vibrant dining experience, I photographed patrons enjoying their meals, as well as the meticulous presentation of new menu items. These candid shots aim to immerse viewers in the lively atmosphere that Trejo's Tacos UK offers.

Where to Find Restaurant Photographer — *Light, camera, ACTION!*

Why Photography Matters

Shoots like these aren’t just about making food and spaces look pretty. They’re about telling a story - one that invites people in and lets them imagine themselves enjoying the experience. Trejo’s Tacos is more than just another taco spot; it’s a slice of LA with a Notting Hill twist.

Having two shoots allows the client to address specific photography needs, ensuring fresh and tailored content that aligns with their evolving goals.

Curious to know more about how I work? Get in touch today!

Like This?

You can follow me on Instagram, Pinterest or TikTok to see more of my work.

For more food photography, you can check out my Pancake Day Shoot, as well as my Christmas 2023 photoshoots, and previous shoots at TOKii, Taste of London, Benares Mayfair, Bonfire, Sabine Rooftop Bar, SlowBurn, Chuku's, The Haberdashery, and Pastore - or get tips on how to pick the right restaurant photographer for your business.

Into cocktails? You can look at my previous work for Lanique Spirit of Rose, Bōkan Bar and Sabine Rooftop Bar.

Published by Naf Castanas in Food and Drinks, Food Photography, London Bar Photography, London Restaurant Photography, Product Photography, Restaurant & Brand Photography

November 23, 2023 — Comments are off for this post.

Magical Spirits and Spooky Colours: Shooting Fall and Halloween Cocktail Specials at Bōkan Bar, Canary Wharf

Cocktail Specials Bokan 37 and Bokan Bar in Novotel Canary Wharf — *A festive photoshoot at Bōkan Bar*

At the top of the Novotel hotel, Bōkan Bar is more than just a place to grab a drink; it's a sanctuary for those who appreciate the art of making cocktails. During my latest photoshoot, I had the chance to explore the captivating mixology of Bōkan, where I focused on their seasonal and Halloween cocktail specials for Halloween and London Cocktail Week, as well as the brand new drinks menu crafted by Bar Manager Generoso D'Avino.

A bar with a view: Bōkan Bar in Canary Wharf

Perched on the 38th floor, Bōkan Bar in Canary Wharf undeniably offers some of the best views in the city. But don't be fooled; the real reason to visit is the innovative cocktail list. While the talented staff can make you any drink you fancy, their cocktail list changes twice per year, and they create cocktail specials for most occasions. As such, every visit is an invitation to find your new favourite cocktail!

Commercial Photographer London Cocktail Specials — *Creative mixology meets breathtaking views*

A creative mixologist's vision

One of the highlights of this photoshoot was delving into the creative process of Bar Manager Generoso D'Avino. His new cocktail menu reflects his passion for making drinks and his commitment to pushing the limits of flavour combinations and presentation. Shooting behind the scenes, I captured him and his team put finishing touches to the beautiful drinks.

Cocktails Specials in London — *Capturing the magic happen: Shooting behind the scenes at the bar*

Commercial Photographer London Cocktails — *Capturing the magic happen: Shooting behind the scenes at the bar*

The new cocktail specials

Bōkan Bar always delivers on its drinks specials. In this photoshoot, I captured the Halloween Special as well as the Gimlet which was on the menu for London Cocktail Week.

Witching hour: The Bōkan Halloween Cocktail special

Bōkan Bar's Halloween special, the Canela Rai, is a balanced mix of calvados, Mozart pumpkin, pumpkin purée, and cinnamon syrup. It is served in a flute covered with cinnamon and topped with a cinnamon stick and an edible flower.

Raising a glass to London Cocktail Week

During London Cocktail Week, Bōkan Bar added a special to their menu. A smokey twist on a Gimlet, it's a mix of Don Ramon Salmiana mezcal, lime juice and HM lime, grapefruit & rosemary cordial.

London Cocktail Week Bokan Bar Cocktail Special — *A smokey gimlet for London Cocktail Week*

Cocktails that look like works of art

Other than the cocktail specials, I photographed the brand new cocktail list. Bōkan Bar shines as a hub of creativity and sophistication for mixology lovers - and that's what makes it one of my favourite bars. It's a place where every drink is a work of art, and every moment is an experience. As a result, Generoso D'Avino's new cocktail list pushes the boundaries of taste and appearance.

I aimed to capture the craftsmanship of his cocktails, highlighting their vibrant colours and intricate details.

Bokan 37 and Bokan Bar in Novotel Canary Wharf — *The stunning cocktails at Bōkan Bar*

Bar snacks in Canary Wharf

Lastly, I ended the shoot with their food menu. Specifically, the Bōkan tiles: a selection of Paxton & Whitfield cheese and Cobble Lane cured butcher’s charcuterie.

Restaurant Videography — *The Bōkan tiles: A selection of British cheese and charcuterie*

Cheese and Charcuterie Board London — *The Bōkan tiles: A selection of British cheese and charcuterie*

The technical details

This was a half day shoot at Bōkan Bar. I shot on a mirrorless Sony a7iii, with a 24-70mm and a 50-mm lens and a Godox softbox strobe light.

Bōkan is located at 40 Marsh Wall, London E14 9TP. The shoot was organised by Roche Communications.

Interested in seeing more?

You can follow me on Instagram, Pinterest or TikTok to see more of my work.

Fancy seeing more cocktail photography? You can check out my previous shoots for Lanique Spirit of Rose and Sabine Rooftop Bar. If you're interested in food and restaurant photography, have a look at previous shoots at TOKii, Taste of London, Benares Mayfair, Bonfire, SlowBurn, Chuku's and The Haberdashery.

If you liked this photos or if you'd like to discuss a shoot, get in touch! I'd love to hear from you.

Published by Naf Castanas in Behind the Scenes, Food and Drinks, London Bar Photography, Restaurant & Brand Photography

Tags: Bar Photography, Behind the Scenes, Cocktail Photography, Drinks Photography, East London, London Bar Photography, London Hotel

August 26, 2023 — Comments are off for this post.

Stunning Cocktail Photography – Shooting Lanique Spirit of Rose Cocktails at Bourne & Hollingsworth and Gaucho Covent Garden

Best Cocktail Photography in London — *A Rose a Day, Oysters Away Cocktail Shot for Lanique Spirit of Rose*

Lanique Spirit of Rose boasts 200 years of history, and is still distilled today using the same artisan method. I had the pleasure of shooting Lanique cocktails at Gaucho Covent Garden, Cocktails in the City and Bourne & Hollingsworth Street Bar.

Shooting a heritage brand: Lanique Spirit of Rose

Lanique Spirit of Rose has a rich history, originating from 1875. In this shoot, the client wanted to capture beautiful imagery, primarily for their social media channels. In the first part of the shoot, which took place at Gaucho Covent Garden, they wanted to highlight the bottle and showcase some of their key serves. The second part of the shoot featured their collaboration with Bourne & Hollingsworth, both at their Soho street bar and at the Cocktails in the City festival.

Lastly, looking at their audience, they recognised that the majority of their audience were male mixologists. As a result, they were looking to move away from their pink, light and bright aesthetic and incorporate action shots behind the bar.

The photography brief

The cocktail photography shoot for Lanique was split in three parts:

Firstly, at Gaucho Covent Garden, I shot the following key serves:

Rose Fizz
Rose & Tonic
Rose Sour
Rose-ito
Rose Negroni
Rose Spritz
Lychee Rose Martini

Secondly, at the Bourne & Hollingsworth Lanique street bar, I shot:

Rose & Grapefruit Margarita
A Shore Thing
A Rose a Day

Lastly, at Cocktails in the City, I shot:

A Rose a Day
A Shore Thing
Shell Tasting Serves

Lanique Spirit of the Rose Cocktails — *A Rose a Day at the Hollingsworth & Bourne Lanique Street Bar*

Lanique cocktail photography at Gaucho Covent Garden

The Lanique key serves were prepared by Simone Fabiani at Gaucho Covent Garden. To capture the brand's essence, I photographed the cocktails in different settings, both indoors and outdoors, as well as behind the scenes at the bar, and lifestyle shots.

Lanique key serves photography - indoors

Cocktail Photographer London Prices — *Lanique key serves cocktail photography*

Stunning Drinks Photography — *Lanique key serves cocktail photography*

behind the scenes at gaucho

Lanique key serves - outdoors

Product Photography in London — *Key serves shot outdoors at Covent Garden*

Lanique lifestyle shots

Commercial Photographer UK — *Lifestyle photos of Lanique in Covent Garden*

Lanique cocktail photography at the Bourne & Hollingsworth street bar

The Bourne & Hollingsworth street bar in Soho serves three Lanique cocktails. They are available all summer.

Cocktail photography Lanique — *Lanique cocktails at the Bourne & Hollingsworth street bar in Soho*

Lanique x Bourne & Hollingsworth at Cocktails in the City

The last shoot location was the Lanique x Bourne & Hollingsworth booth at Cocktails in the City. At the festival, which takes places over a weekend in July, August and September, the Lanique team prepared two cocktails, as well as organised taster sessions with drinks were served in oyster shells.

The nitty-gritty

This was a full day shoot over three locations. I used a Sony a7iii, with a 50-mm and a 24-70mm lens, and a Godox softbox strobe light.

The shoot was organised by Roche Communications.

Want to see more?

You can follow me on Instagram, Pinterest or TikTok to see more of my work.

For more cocktail photography, check out my previous shoots at Sabine Rooftop Bar. For more restaurant photography, have a look at my previous shoots at Benares Mayfair, Bonfire, Sabine Rooftop Bar, SlowBurn, Chuku's, The Haberdashery, and Pastore - or get tips on how to pick the right restaurant photographer for your business. You can also see some of my food styling gigs!

If you liked this post, drop me a line - I'd love to hear from you!

Published by Naf Castanas in Food and Drinks, London Brand Photography, Restaurant & Brand Photography

Tags: Bar Photography, Cocktail Photography, Drinks Photography, London Bar Photography, London Brand Photography, London Lifestyle Photography, London Restaurant Photography

December 19, 2021 — Comments are off for this post.

Festive Bar Photography – Sabine Rooftop Bar

Sabine Rooftop Bar looking like a winter wonderland

Sabine Rooftop Bar is located a stone's throw away from one of London's prettiest landmarks. That and bomb cocktails explains the bar's popularity all year long. This season, they transformed the bar into an alpine winter garden, and I got to shoot the winter decorations and some of their drinks.

The winter decorations at Sabine Rooftop Bar

Sabine landed on the London bar scene last summer, and has since gone from strength to strength to become a bar one has to visit while in London. It seems that no one can resist sipping on a cocktail while being up close and personal with St Paul's Cathedral.

This winter, they boasted a brand new food and drinks menu, while the bar went through a winter makeover. With an alpine chalet, snowy trees and fairy lights, Sabine Rooftop Bar truly looks like a winter oasis in the heart of London.

The photography brief

To best highlight the winter transformation, the client brief included:

Winter decorations
Drinks in a winter setting
The bar's winter set up
Drinks with St Paul's Cathedral in the background
St Paul's Cathedral in winter

Winter accents

This season, Sabine ditched the summer get up for a new winter look. This included an alpine chalet that guests can take photos in, snowy trees around the bar, decorative skis, as well as garlands and fairy lights. Talk about a dreamy winterscape!

Winter Decorations at Sabine Rooftop Bar

A winter makeover

Wintery Drinks

The second part of the brief involved shooting some of the drinks in a winter set up. These were some of my favourite shots of the day.

Drinks Photography London — *Wintery drinks*

Drinks with a view

Of course, no photoshoot at Sabine would be complete without featuring the stunning view. The client specifically asked to emphasise the winter mood. I therefore included a blanket and the winter sky, to give these photos the right feel.

St Paul's

Last but not least, I shot St Paul's - both during daytime and at sunset.

The nitty gritty

This shoot lasted half a day. The images were shot with a Sony A7iii with a 35mm and a 24-70mm lens, using natural light and a Manfrotto tripod. Different members of staff assisted with hand modelling, while Francesco prepared the cocktails. During this shoot, I also shot short videos to create Instagram Reels.

Sabine Rooftop Bar is located on Godliman Street, across the street from St Paul's Cathedral.

Let's be social

Catch me on Instagram, Pinterest or TikTok.

You can also check my previous restaurant shoots at SlowBurn, Chuku's, The Haberdashery, and Pastore - or get tips on how to pick the right restaurant photographer for your business. You can also see some of my food styling gigs!

If you liked this post, please drop me a line - I'd love to hear from you!

Published by Naf Castanas in Food and Drinks, London Bar Photography, Restaurant & Brand Photography

Tags: Central London, Cocktail Photography, Drinks Photography, Festive Photography, Interior Photography, London Bar Photography, London Restaurant Photography