You know that thick, rich syrup you just saw on a product shot of pancakes in the grocery store? Chances are, it was motor oil. The steam on a photo of chicken wings may have been soaked and microwaved cotton balls; and that ice cream was actually shortening. It is amazing the strange things food photographers use to make us hungry. You have my word, though, that when you decide to eat out at The Black Pearl, the food photography you will see is the real deal... melting ice cream and all.
Mindy and I don't eat out a lot, but when we do, we eat at The Black Pearl a good portion of the time. It is such a great idea for a restaurant. Laila, the owner, just decided to serve all the foods she loves. Consequently, you can order pho, bubble tea, and crepes all in the same meal. Not to mention it's all at very reasonable prices.
I spent a Sunday afternoon getting in the way and photographing about 20 dishes the best I could. It was my first experience with food photography, and I learned a great deal. I'm excited to try it again!