While studying in Florence, Italy in 2010 and 2011, one of my favorite parts about the experience were the large, rich fruit and vegetable markets that lined the streets and filled the piazzas. Bold colors of the freshest produce caught my attention and I was constantly entranced by how incredibly flavorful and beautiful everything I laid my eyes on were. Each fruit and vegetable had a natural shape and beauty about them that gave them personality.

I was inspired to take my first photography class by a friend of mine who takes photos professionally during the spring of 2011. Under the instruction of Professor Matteo Brogi at Florence University of the Arts, I enrolled in The Art of Food Photography, where the hobby that I once thought of as being simple and playful became much more intricate and complex. Five-hour studio sessions were just the tip of the iceberg in how much time and dedication were put into shooting, editing and printing the perfect photograph.

Our final project for the class was to shoot ten photos of a food theme. Naturally, I immediately thought of the fresh produce markets. I decided to narrow down this theme to simply just peppers because of the vast array of color, shape and size they would still be able to provide me with. Hundreds of photos and edits later, these six photos are my favorite shots.