HOSPITALITY // Alley Twenty Six

– The Craft of Cocktails –

The alley that houese Alley Twenty-Six in Durham, NC taken by Natalia Weedy Photography

What a treat to have a favorite restaurant and bar as a regular client. I partnered with my frequent collaborator Alex Craig to co-direct and co-photograph this shoot capturing the world of Alley Twenty Six. At Alley, we’re treated like family, the menu stays fresh (when I can convince myself to order anything other than the best burger in town), the drinks are reliably delicious, and the setting is gorgeous year-round.

Sometimes, shooting a place that feels like home can start to feel comfortable, but the versatility of this project and restaurant’s continued innovation keeps things interesting.

My team has produced multiple shoots over the past year including bringing to life drool-worthy product shots, photographing guests in their element at Jazz Brunch, shooting new menu items for digital marketing, and creating vibrant lifestyle imagery. My team, Alex, and I are thrilled for the chance to help Alley Twenty Six tell its story, and happy to call ourselves regulars.

Alley Twenty Six syrups are well-known locally for bottling the essence of the season when products are at their peak, and few cocktail connoisseurs would argue that the tonic syrup is a key ingredient in a top-notch Gin & Tonic. The folks at Alley trusted me and my team to lean in on decadence when we produced a styled studio shoot for the upcoming website, where the signature flavors will soon be available to order along with distinctive vermouths, bitters and sherries.

We went with a punchy, saturated look in the setup and retouching that would best convey the richness and purity of the flavors in the bottles and the sultry vibe of the bar space. We’re very happy with the results and can’t wait to see them when the website goes live.

Taking part in the action allows me to catch the true spirit of the place and its people. A genuine smile from the host of Jazz Brunch. The perfect “I gotta have it now” photo of the latest seasonal cocktail. Relaxed friends laughing under the alley’s twinkling lights. Images that inspire FOMO and allow you to imagine yourself there. The rare project we truly don’t want to finish!