We at Le Creuset really love being part of Dirk Pieters’ glorious photo shoots: not only do we get to play with our full range of products and all our gorgeous colours, we get to watch a true master honing his craft to perfection. Here is a bit of background from the man behind the lens…
What triggered your love of photography?
I borrowed my aunt’s camera when I was in Grade 5 and photographed a spider on a web in the garden. I was hooked.
Tell us about your exhibitions.
I’ve had a few formal exhibitions but I like to work on collections of creative work not necessarily for exhibitions. Previous exhibitions include Still Lives on White (1981), Portraits in a Tent (1985), Namakwa People (1987), Plants and Flowers (2002), AfrikaBurn Daylight Studio Portraits (2009), Himba Daylight Studio Portraits (2012) and AfrikaBurn Rickshaw Studio Portraits (2014). At the moment I’m busy working on my AfrikaBurn 2015 project, which will be a massive car studio.
Photograph by Dirk Pieters
Do you have an all-time favourite photograph you have shot?
It’s hard to choose one, because as a photographer you have to constantly change. Pics that I loved a few years ago sometimes make me cringe now. My favourite pic for Le Creuset is this teatime scene. I love this shot because it’s so happy: I would definitely want to be at that tea party.
Photograph by Dirk Pieters
What are the key elements of successful food photography?
It’s all about lighting and choosing the right background. I think you have to make the viewer salivate. There has to be a spark of flavour that makes you hungry or makes you want to taste something when you look at the pic. If you can also make a viewer feel that he or she would like to be sitting at that table, then you’ve done your job.
Photograph by Dirk Pieters
Do you have a trade secret you are willing to share?
Yes, but I don’t think it’s a secret: 40% lighting, 40% background, 20% content.
Tell us about shooting for Le Creuset?
I love shooting for Le Creuset because there’s a great creative synergy in the team. Jamie has a great eye for lighting and composition, so we always end up with a great result. Also, it’s a great honour to shoot for such a well-known international brand.
Dirk with food stylist, Lisa Clark
Do you yourself cook? What is your favourite recipe?
My wife does the cooking. Her enchiladas and Spanish rice dishes are amazing.
What is your favourite Le Creuset cookware item?
A while ago we bought the little Milk Pan just for heating milk for our coffee. My wife liked it so much that she was using it for everything, so we bought the coated Chef’s Pan. She loves that so much she wants another one.
Your favourite Le Creuset colours?
Black, Cotton and Dune.
Photograph by Dirk Pieters
What words best describe you?
Photographer, father, husband, handyman.
What can always be found in your fridge?
Parmesan, leftover pasta, mayonnaise, tonic water and Greek yoghurt.
To view our full range of products, visit our online shop at www.lecreuset.co.za or pop into your nearest Le Creuset Boutique store.
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