Photo of the Day, April 30, 2009

This past summer, I took advantage of my self-employment/I-make-my-own-hours situation by frequenting a number of weekday farmers markets throughout Chicago. My favorite was the one in Daley Plaza. If the sun is out, it is easy enough for me to hop on the motorcycle with my well-padded camera backpack and find a parking spot between tightly packed cars only a block away from Daley Plaza.

This particular market is my favorite for a few reasons. It has perhaps the largest selection of foods. It's nice to know there's a place for downtown workers to take in a sun-filled stroll and soak their toes in the fountain while enjoying fresh breads, yummy jams, organic veggies, homemade sweets, or maybe even pick up a thoughtful, earth-friendly gift. This is the only market I've seen that allows groups like Miseracordia (a bakery that employs the learning disabled) sell their goods. What a great way to make people aware of such organizations, in addition to supporting local farmers.

The farmers markets are where I discovered my love for photographing foods. Maybe I am influenced by the beautiful photos of Ed Weston. Or maybe he and I both just happen to have a similar eye and perspective on the bounties of nature. Yes, I do think veggies are sexy. Fruit is sensual. Nothing is more wonderful than a colorful, juicy, curvy things that literally provide us with life and titilate our tastebuds.

Photos like the one above celebrate all the beauty and bounty food can represent. This sort of image is fantastic for fans of black and white photography looking to spruce up a kitchen or dining room. You can purchase prints at: http://outerfocusphotos.smugmug.com/gallery/6736350_faYxP

I am very excited to see what Mother Nature and many wonderful local farmers, bakers, artisans, and eco-friendly vendors have to offer in 2009! I am so looking forward to the woman who sells her organic mushroom bruschetta spread at the Lincoln Park market. Mmm!!!

Happy harvesting and happy eating,
Brigette

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