Scales Portland Maine Food Photography With Destination Food and Branding Photographer Nina Bashaw
- Nina Bashaw
- Mar 24
- 4 min read
Scales Portland Maine Food Photography With Destination Food and Branding Photographer Nina Bashaw
Why Portland, Maine is a Dream for a Traveling Food and Branding Photographer
There are certain places that instantly spark creativity, and Portland, Maine is one of them. As a destination food and branding photographer, I traveled to New England with the goal of immersing myself in a new culinary scene and expanding my work beyond Tampa, Florida. Portland quickly proved to be the perfect place to do just that.
The city has this effortless blend of coastal charm and elevated dining that makes every moment feel worth capturing. From the working waterfront to the beautifully curated restaurant interiors, everything feels intentional, inviting, and full of story.
Discovering the Waterfront Charm of Portland, Maine
Spending time along the Portland, Maine waterfront was one of my favorite parts of the trip. The light, the textures, the movement of the harbor all created the kind of atmosphere that inspires creativity without even trying.
As someone who focuses on food and branding photography, I am always paying attention to how a place feels just as much as how it looks. Portland has a way of slowing you down in the best way, allowing you to fully take in the experience and notice the details.
Dining at Scales Restaurant in Portland, Maine
One of the most memorable experiences from the trip was dining at Scales. From the moment I walked in, I could tell it was something special. The space felt warm and refined, with large windows that let in the most beautiful natural light.
The location right on the water added to the entire experience, creating a relaxed but elevated atmosphere that felt both welcoming and inspiring. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive, making the experience feel personal without ever being overwhelming. It was the kind of place where you want to linger, take your time, and fully enjoy everything in front of you.
Scales Restaurant Menu Showcases Maine’s Coastal Flavors
The food at Scales was unforgettable and truly showcased the best of Maine’s coastal cuisine. We started with their famous clover bread, which was soft, warm, and perfect in every way. The oysters were incredibly fresh and full of flavor, followed by a rich and comforting clam chowder.
The lobster and sweet potato bisque stood out with its balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. The fish pâté was beautifully presented and just as delicious as it looked. For the main courses, the pan seared halibut and baked haddock were cooked perfectly. Each dish felt thoughtful and visually stunning, reminding me why I am so passionate about what I do as a destination food and branding photographer.
Capturing the Experience as a Destination Food and Branding Photographer
Experiences like this go far beyond just dining out. They shape how I see light, texture, color, and storytelling. It also determines the way I set up my food and branding photography, it fuels my passion for food and branding photography and how I customize each session to fit their brand.
As a destination food and branding photographer, I am always thinking about how to capture not just the dish, but the full experience. The atmosphere, the movement, the details, and the emotion behind it all. Scales offered the kind of environment where every element worked together seamlessly, making it an inspiring space to observe and learn from.
Building Connections in the New England Culinary Scene
This trip to Portland, Maine was more than just a getaway. It was a step toward building relationships and creating opportunities in the New England market. Hoping to go back to work with more restaurants, luxury culinary brands and chefs to photograph their menus and branding images,
I am passionate about working with Michelin Star restaurants, personal chefs, and culinary brands who value storytelling and elevated food photography imagery. Portland opened that door for me in such a meaningful way, and I am so excited to continue growing as a destination food and branding photographer throughout the United States and Europe.
Food Photography at Scales Restaurant in Portland Maine by Destination Food and Branding Photographer Nina Bashaw
Lobster and sweet potato bisque in Portland Maine seafood restaurant
photographed by traveling food and branding photographer Nina Bashaw
Clover bread at Scales restaurant in Portland Maine photographed by traveling food and branding photographer Nina Bashaw
Scales Restaurant VISIT SCALES RESTAURANT
Cambria Hotel Portland, ME WHERE WE STAYED
Looking for Sushi? SUSHI IN OLD PORT
Love donuts? EIGHTY 8 DONUTS
Wine Tasting Room GRIPPY TANNINS
Learn More about Old Port, Portland, Maine MORE ABOUT OLD PORT, PORTLAND, MAINE
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If you are a restaurant, chef, or culinary brand in Portland, ME or in the New England area and are looking to elevate your visual storytelling, I would love to connect. As a destination food and branding photographer, I travel to capture authentic, elevated imagery that reflects your brand and your story. Now booking projects throughout the United States and Europe. Thanks for stopping by my blog and reading "Scales Portland Maine Food Photography With Destination Food and Branding Photographer Nina Bashaw"
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