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SNAPSHOTS OF THE SOUTHERN FORESTS: THE PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY OF CRAIG KINDER

Meet Craig Kinder - The Southern Forests Food Council has commissioned Craig for numerous photoshoots in the Southern Forests over the last 10 years, and his photography for the Genuinely Southern Forests brand has been integral in showcasing the beauty and quality of our local products, landscapes and producers.



Craig Kinder’s love affair with photography began in his childhood. "I first picked up a camera in primary school. I remember taking a polaroid camera to school and taking photos of my classmates," Craig reminisces. His enthusiasm for capturing moments led him to photograph his entire class at the tender age of five. This early fascination with photography laid the foundation for his future career, though it was years later that his path would intersect with the world of food photography.


Craig’s transition into food photography began in 2003, a pivotal year when he was commissioned by ABC TV/ABC Books to travel across Australia with renowned chefs Curtis Stone and Ben O'Donoghue. "I photographed their food during the filming of ABC TV show Surfing the Menu. I did this twice and produced two cookbooks," Craig explains. This experience ignited a passion for food photography, setting the stage for a prolific career.

Surfing the Menu by Ben O'Donoghue and Curtis Stone

Craig's journey wasn't a straightforward one. Initially, he pursued a Bachelor of Science but did not complete it. After a gap year (or two), he enrolled in an Advanced Diploma of Applied Science majoring in Photography, where he excelled and was awarded Best Student in his first, second, and third years. "I then worked in a large studio as a photographer in the advertising industry for seven years," he says, reflecting on his formative professional experiences.


In 2000, alongside his wife Emma, Craig established F22 Photography. "When most of my commissions shifted towards food photography, we created the business name Craig Kinder Food Photography around 2005," he adds. This marked the official beginning of his specialised career in food photography.


Today, Craig Kinder Food Photography is a testament to years of dedication and collaboration. "Essentially I’m a freelance photographer working from one commission to another. It’s a roller coaster ride not for the faint-hearted," Craig admits. His career spans 30 years, a milestone of perseverance and passion. Emma, a talented photographer in her own right, now prefers capturing moving images, complementing Craig’s still photography. Together, they form a dynamic team, having worked together for 24 years.


One of the notable projects in Craig's career is his work on Sophie Zalokar's "Food of the Southern Forests" cookbook. "By 2010, University of Western Australia Press (UWAP) had commissioned me to photograph many cookbooks for local chefs and restaurateurs. When UWAP was asked to publish Food of The Southern Forests, I was the photographer of choice," Craig shares. The project required him to visit the Southern Forests region multiple times over 14 months, capturing the essence of the area across different seasons. "Each visit was for 5-7 days, meeting and photographing 3-4 producers in the morning before heading back to Sophie's Foragers restaurant where I would photograph Sophie's incredible recipes," he elaborates.

Craig’s collaboration with Genuinely Southern Forests has been an enriching experience, both personally and professionally. "It’s a wonderful challenge," Craig states. The contrast between his urban life in Perth and the rural landscapes of the Southern Forests provides a fresh perspective each time he visits. "I’m like a kid in a candy shop when I jump out of the car on a potato farmer's paddock. I want to capture as much footage as possible," he says enthusiastically.


Craig’s approach is rooted in respect for the farmers and their land. "My first priority is to meet and treat the farmer with utmost respect. I’m on his/her land," he emphasises. His ability to make farmers comfortable and his knack for capturing the essence of their produce against the backdrop of the tall timber forests has led to stunning, authentic images that resonate with viewers.


Craig's portfolio is diverse, showcasing everything from WA’s most iconic foods to the fastest of fast foods. He balances various collaborations by treating each project with equal importance. "I have always treated each photoshoot as if it was my last. I always need to impress the client and strive to over-deliver," he explains. This dedication is evident in his work with Thermomix, having photographed 22 cookbooks for the brand. "Craig Kinder has been very much a part of our Thermomix journey," notes Grace Mazur, Founder and Managing Director of Thermomix Australia.



Photographing food in the Southern Forests region presents unique challenges and opportunities. "It’s the characters that you come across that make the Southern Forests so unique," Craig observes. From large corporate producers to small family growers, the diversity of people and produce is a constant source of inspiration. "Every day shooting in the Southern Forests is a constant surprise and exciting photo opportunity," he adds.


Craig’s approach to photography is about more than just taking pictures; it’s about telling a story. "As a visual storyteller, I need to have a clear understanding of the message," he says. For the Southern Forests Food Council, this involves framing the landscape, farmer, and produce in a way that showcases their beauty and connection. His techniques include using natural light and clear communication with the farmers to ensure the desired composition is achieved.



Collaboration is a key aspect of Craig’s work. He emphasises the importance of teamwork in food photography, often working with a food stylist and digital file manager. "To make sure the vision is realised in the final product, we ensure everyone involved communicates what can be improved, and adjustments are made until everyone is 100% happy," he explains.


Looking ahead, Craig is excited about upcoming projects, including a potential photoshoot on a sugar cane plantation in Panama. However, he remains grounded, focusing on each project as it comes. "I try not to get too excited about overseas photoshoots till the plane has actually taken off," he says pragmatically.


Craig Kinder’s photography has significantly contributed to promoting the Southern Forests region as a culinary destination. His images of real people working the land, set against the stunning backdrop of the Southern Forests, inspire city dwellers to seek out these rural havens. "It’s a cleansing feeling that the Southern Forests as a culinary destination has to offer," he concludes.


Craig's journey from a young boy with a polaroid camera to a renowned food photographer is a testament to his passion, dedication, and ability to tell compelling stories through his lens. His work not only highlights the beauty of food but also the deep connections between producers, their products, and the environment.

Photographs supplied by Craig Kinder.

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