I recently photographed Tres Generaciones Tequila Reposado during an early-morning shoot in my kitchen. The shoot was before sunrise because I needed full darkness to control the mood and lighting. When you’re shooting alcohol photography, especially tequila, light control is everything. Darkness gives you the ability to sculpt highlights, control reflections, and build atmosphere instead of fighting ambient light.

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Turning a Chicago Kitchen into a Jungle

The concept was simple: warm, earthy, jungle-inspired tequila energy—even though it was freezing outside here in Chicago.

To create the set, I leaned into what I already had around me:

• House plants layered together to build a dense, jungle-like backdrop
• A green knitted blanket from my couch repurposed as a mossy jungle floor
• Tight framing to keep the environment immersive and intentional

There’s something I love about building sets this way. You don’t always need a massive studio or exotic location—sometimes the best beverage photography comes from creative problem-solving and trusting your eye.

Lighting the Bottle

I shot the entire set using my Sony Alpha camera, which is my go-to for everything from beverage photography to event work. For lighting, I used a mini colored light set, positioning them primarily from the side and slightly behind the bottle to backlight it.

In addition to defining the glass edges, it added depth and separation from the background. Side and back lighting are especially powerful for alcohol photography because they bring out texture in the liquid and bottle without flattening the label.

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Imperfection Can Be Part of the Story

When I got into post, I noticed the bottle wasn’t as pristine as I would have ideally liked—minor imperfections that you sometimes don’t catch until you’re zoomed way in. But honestly? I think it works. The slightly worn, natural feel actually supports the jungle concept. It feels lived-in, warm, and authentic rather than overly sterile. Not every bottle needs to look museum-perfect—sometimes the vibe matters more than perfection.

Final Thoughts

This shoot was a reminder that great beverage photography is about storytelling, light control, and creative resourcefulness. Whether it’s a tequila bottle at sunrise or a cocktail on a packed brunch table, the goal is always the same: make the product feel alive.

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🎉 Planning or Shooting a Drag Brunch?

If you’re a photographer, promoter, or venue working in the drag brunch space, I created a Drag Brunch Checklist that breaks down everything from lighting considerations to must-have shots and workflow tips. It’s designed to help you stay organized, efficient, and profitable—especially in fast-paced, high-energy environments. If you’re launching a drag brunch, we also have a course for that.

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📸 Brands: Looking for a Chicago Alcohol Photographer?

If you’re a spirits, beverage, or hospitality brand looking to book a Chicago-based photographer for alcohol or product photography, book a photoshoot with me today. From styled bottle shoots to lifestyle content and branded visuals, I specialize in creating bold, intentional imagery that tells your brand’s story.