Cinematographer Adam Bricker has been capturing episodes of Netflix’s “Chef’s Table” for more than a decade. Initially, his equipment was at the forefront of 4K and later HDR content distribution. From the beginning, he required high-quality cameras to film whatever he was working on: “We’ve consistently used Red cameras due to their suitable resolution and compact size for these confined kitchen settings. Over the last ten years, we’ve simply been adapting our gear to match the advancements in camera technology, always striving to work with the newest models.
The team opted for a single-camera approach in producing the show, as explained by Bricker on EbMaster’s Artisans (an HBO production). He stated that this method allows them to focus on the positioning of the camera during filming rather than having to manage two cameras and adjust their positions later in post-production.
This season, an episode features Jamie Oliver as the main subject, largely constructed from previously recorded material. According to Bricker, “The story wasn’t about a chef famous for cooking in kitchens, but one renowned for television work and media presence. It was a unique tale to share, and I believe that tackling such a distinct narrative made the process quite enjoyable.
Prior to my encounter with Oliver’s shows, they were entirely unfamiliar to me. Director Brian McGinn shared a few episodes from his body of work, such as snippets from the 1990 series “The Naked Chef,” and I was astounded. He was pioneering new ground in food cinematography, and it showed in the unique blend of video and film used. The shooting style was handheld, spontaneous, and energetic – a departure from the static, studio-based cooking shows that were prevalent at the time. Instead, this show was filmed in Jamie’s apartment, giving it a raw, documentary feel that was incredibly inspiring. I soon realized that this show had significantly impacted Anthony Bourdain’s work and, to some extent, ‘Chef’s Table.’ I believe the visual innovations they introduced have subtly influenced our own visual approach as well.
To ensure a clear contrast when combining archival footage with this episode, Bricker aimed to establish a distinct visual style. He chose to film the food scenes using a neutral color tone and arranging a single shadow, while maintaining a candid, realistic approach for the interview segments.
According to Bricker, “The interviews in this episode are particularly special because one of them was filmed at a pub that held significant meaning for Jamie. The lighting was basic yet effective, with soft light filtering through a window, making the scene feel authentic and perfectly suited for our ‘food symphony’.
During one scene, Oliver is preparing focaccia bread. This scene was captured by the second unit cinematographer, Charlie Panian, for the episode. Bricker shares that the intention behind this was to convey a nostalgic feel. It’s like Jamie cooking alongside an old friend and reflecting on the moments when he first found his passion for cooking, that emotional bond with food.
In the brightly lit setting, I aimed to amplify the natural light’s effect. “I employed an HMI to infuse a strong daylight that would blend with the gentle light, creating a nostalgic, dream-like atmosphere,” I share. “The shot of their hands pouring olive oil and the subsequent frame where sunlight filters through the olive oil in the foreground, illuminating Jamie in the background, is simply captivating. It’s the essence, the emotion, the dedication, and the artistry – truly a reflection of the heart, soul, passion, and touch.
Read More
2025-06-04 20:18