The Craft of the Cocktail: Photographing the Smoke Top Experience

Commercial photography of a smoked Old Fashioned featuring the Smoke Top, captured in a bar setting using professional three-point lighting.

There is a specific kind of craftsmanship that goes into a great drink, especially one that involves fire and smoke. When I was asked to capture the Smoke Top in action, my goal was to make the viewer feel like they were sitting right there at the bar, smelling the charred wood and waiting for that first sip.

A smoked Old Fashioned is as much about the process as it is the flavor. To do justice to the product, I wanted the lighting to feel as warm and inviting as the drink itself. This wasn't just about a "product shot"—it was about capturing the focus of the bartender and the unique atmosphere of the space.

Behind the Lens: Lighting the Smoke

To get the look with the rich, warm background and the backlit smoke and cocktail, I used a three-light setup:

A primary flash ensured the bartender’s hands and movements remained sharp and clear.

I placed a second light behind the cocktail. This is what catches the plumes of smoke and gives the amber liquid that beautiful, rich glow.

Finally, I used a third flash with a warm gel to light the liquor racks in the background. This added depth and created that cozy, classic bar vibe that makes a public space feel like home.

Whether I’m shooting commercial products or corporate portraits here in Seattle, I always aim to make the process feel seamless. The goal is to create images that don't just look professional—they tell a story that people actually want to be a part of.