Daily Inspiration: Meet Brandi Hooks

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandi Hooks.

Hi Brandi, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
From childhood, I have always been a creative/artistic in nature. I have always gravitated to the arts of many forms: poetry, painting, dancing, drawing, etc. As an adult, we often forget about our childhood loves and talents when we go through the motions of day-to-day living (work, school, families, etc.), leaving our childhood dreams on the back burner. During the pandemic, I had more time to tap into that creative space once again, and I realized a career in the artistic/creative field is something that would fulfill me more, and I would get to inspire others as well.

I was first intrigued by cooking in middle school, even earning the “outstanding cooking student” award in 7th grade. In high school, I discovered I liked photography while taking a photography class as an elective. During quarantine in 2020, I decided to start cooking and sharing to social media, ultimately falling in love with it once again. In early 2021, I decided to pick up a professional camera and share my food pictures with the world. Food photography came naturally to me as this was a way to combine two things that I love: cooking and photography.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The learning curve of operating a professional camera and developing editing skills can be steep; especially if you have never done it before. YouTube is your friend. Once I got the basics on how the camera/lighting actually work together, I was able to create the images I desired, and each time was easier than the last.

One of the most challenging aspects of turning your art into a business is “burn out”. I received so much love from people that wanted to see more from me, but I had to do it at my pace and when I was ready. I was at a point where cooking was no longer fun because I felt pressured to meet everyone else’s expectations. I figured out a way to do it on my terms and still enjoy what I do by taking a step back and creating a plan. That was the best thing I could have done. I am now on my way to transitioning my art into a fulfilling career, and I am excited about it.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a self-taught culinary artist and food/beverage photographer. My goal is to create good “vibes” or moods for the viewer through my images and make the food look as drool-worthy as possible of course! I am known for making and sharing videos of food, as well as my photography.

Vibez Food Studio is a direct reflection of myself and how I am in real life: fun, taking chances, and creating good vibes for all who I encounter. Authenticity goes a long way, and I pride myself for staying true to that. I want people to see themselves in my journey when they think of Vibez Food Studio. Don’t be afraid to try something new, you never know what talents you can uncover. Express your art how you see fit and have a great time doing it!

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
I’ve learned that the government does not prioritize the health and well-being of the people that live in the United States. Also, people should be more kind to others every single day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://vibezfoodstudio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vibezfoodstudio/

Image Credits
Brandi Hooks