Cranberry couture: a Thanksgiving-inspired product photography experiment
For me, Thanksgiving is all about the sides. Stuffing, pie, and cranberry sauce. As a San Francisco still life photographer, I wanted to celebrate the jellied, can-shaped marvel that always makes its way onto my plate and into my heart
Decontextualizing a holiday classic
This year I paid tribute to this tart, crimson icon with a twist. I wanted to pull cranberry sauce out of its usual role as a humble side dish and see it in a new light. What if cranberry sauce was sexy? What if it was fashion? What if it took cues from the high-gloss world of cosmetics? After all, what is lipstick if not a red tube?
Experimenting with new techniques
To get started, I pulled together a mood board inspired by aspirational cosmetic photography. I studied lighting setups, color palettes, angles, and techniques, diving headfirst into unfamiliar territory. Shooting from below was tricky, and shoutout to the pros who make it look effortless. I swapped my usual approach of hard shadows and bold backdrops for something new: soft, diffused overhead light on a crisp white background. Minimalist, product-focused, and distraction-free. Just the sauce. Sticky, experimental, and outside my comfort zone.
Leaning into play and discovery
The results left me unsure at first. Was it bold and brilliant, or a total disaster? Doubt crept in. After some distance, I reminded myself of the point: experimentation. I had tried new techniques, tackled unfamiliar challenges, and learned along the way. It was not perfect, but it was growth. At the heart of my practice, that is what matters most: play, discovery, and pushing boundaries.
What is your surprise source of product photography inspiration? For more behind-the-scenes experiments, explore my Creative tools, reach out if you’re looking for bold still life work, or follow along on Instagram @sara.anderson.photo.