about amanda loren
barefoot creative.
intentional photographer.
story-first visual artist.
I’m a food and fine art photographer who believes in presence over polish and story over spectacle. I specialize in images that feel like something. Whether it’s a spoon resting on a linen napkin or the steam rising off a dish right before it’s served, I photograph what matters beneath the surface.
MY STORY
The Long, Winding Road That Led Me Here
If you had told me years ago that a catering business, an unfinished cookbook, and a whole lot of trial and error would lead me here, I am not sure I would have believed you.
Looking back now, every messy, exhausting, beautiful step makes sense. A layoff, a divorce, three small kids, and a stubborn refusal to give up bread. That is how I accidentally built a catering business, burned out, and got talked into writing "that damn book" I never finished.
But that unfinished book led me to everything, food photography, a studio, flying all over the country for chefs and restaurants, and eventually becoming a board certified Doctor of Functional Nutrition with a clinical focus in migraine.
Food has been the thread through all of it, understood all the way down, how it nourishes, how it heals, and how it makes us feel. Every tool I build for my clients is one I wish I had been handed back then.
Curious about the science side of what I do? You can explore my practice at AmandaRichardson.co
Just so we’re clear ... if I’m not behind the camera,
I’m probably eating a cheeseburger.
A REALLY CHEESY ONE!
Preferably with crispy fries and zero judgment.
WORKING TOGETHER
I don’t use Photoshop. I don’t believe in false perfection. And I never “just take a photo.”
I create food and cookbook photography for chefs, authors, restaurants, and food brands who know that connection converts. The work I do is emotional, artistic, and intentional. It is about showing your food with truth, not trend.
​
This is collaborative, layered, and full of care. When you work with me, you get a stylist, a photographer, and a trained chef’s eye all in one, planning every detail with you before we ever pick up a camera.
I go everywhere barefoot.
I shoot barefoot (when appropriate!)
I drive barefoot.
I leave shoes behind all the time.
I’m convinced the ground keeps us grounded. And honestly? I’d rather feel the earth than perform for it.
CAN YOU RELATE?
A few things you should know...
I’ve followed Dave Matthews across continents, from Vegas to Florence, Italy.​
I believe a photo can stop a scroll and stir a soul.
Lily is my shadow and she was just a baby in this photo!
I will never get sick of cheeseburgers - Obviously haha​
I've had this sweatshirt since I was 18 and I love it more with every rip and tear.
​
My process is highly guided, emotionally intuitive, and deeply strategic.
​
I shoot barefoot, edit with tea, and deliver images that feel like poetry.
​
If you want visuals that feel aligned with the heart of your work, I’m your girl.
Amanda Loren is the creative force behind Amanda Loren Studios, specializing in artistic food photography for cookbooks and imagery for high end food businesses, along with soulful fine art pieces. She serves cookbook authors, upscale food brands, restaurants, chefs, and collectors seeking visual work that feels as powerful as it looks. Her cookbook work spans DIY self publishing authors all the way to titles produced with SPARK Publications and international publisher Insight Editions.
​
Amanda’s work has been featured in notable publications including EBONY, Paper City, The Charlotte Observer, Q, Travel Noire, LKN Magazine, and Ballantyne Magazine.
​
As a board certified Doctor of Functional Nutrition with a clinical focus in migraine, Amanda brings a rare depth to every plate she shoots. Known for her barefoot spirit, editorial style, and deep commitment to authentic storytelling, she crafts imagery that stirs emotion, builds connection, and elevates food far beyond trends.
​
Outside of client work, Amanda donates her talents to causes close to her heart, including Fork Cancer and The Make A Wish Foundation. Through every project, Amanda Loren Studios remains rooted in artistry, service, and the belief that beautiful work should always feel real.
​
Amanda Richardson, BCDFN, CFNC