Case Study: Elevating Top Crow Bakery’s Brand With Thoughtful Product & Lifestyle Photography
Building a warm, approachable brand for a small business doesn’t require a huge studio team or flashy campaign—it requires strategy, creativity, and a deep understanding of the story behind the product. That’s exactly what we brought to life for Doris, owner of Top Crow Bakery, a South Minneapolis cottage food producer who delivers her baked goods by bike.
Styled flatlay product photography
From DIY to Professional: A Bakery Ready for Growth
Before working with Venlo Studio, Doris had been managing her product photography herself. Like many small business owners, she knew it was time to level up. She reached out for both e-commerce and lifestyle photography to help her brand feel more cohesive and professional.
"The e-commerce photos are clean, clear, and showcase my products in an appealing way," Doris shared. "They immediately created an elevated sense of professionalism in my online store."
We started with a planning call, where Doris described the aesthetic and feeling behind her bakery brand. Drawing on that conversation, we crafted a session plan that would showcase her signature style with care and creativity.
A Thoughtful, Styled Approach
Doris dropped off six of her bakery's core items along with a collection of props that reflected her brand’s personality: vintage china, beautiful platters, a French press, fresh flowers, and other curated details.
We styled an “eclectic tea party” flatlay, turning her props into an inviting visual story that felt equal parts whimsical and elevated. This carefully styled setup brought warmth, richness, and a unique charm to her lifestyle images.
Styled flatlay product photography
"Lydia took everything we talked about regarding my business and aesthetics and created a gorgeous setup that captured the heart of my bakery," Doris said. "To say they are a step up from the DIY photos I've been using would be an egregious understatement."
Results That Feel Like Magic
The result? A full gallery of polished images that make Top Crow Bakery feel like it belongs on the front page of a favorite food magazine. Doris now has:
Clean, consistent e-commerce images for each of her core menu items
Beautiful lifestyle imagery that elevates her brand and connects with her ideal customers
Content that brings professionalism and warmth to her website and marketing
"I am looking forward to updating my website with these photos," she shared, "and feel that they present my products and business in the best possible light."
A Visual Identity That Rises to the Occasion
Top Crow Bakery’s new visuals aren’t just pretty—they work. They give Doris the tools she needs to promote her products confidently and professionally, all while staying true to her brand’s unique charm.
"I would absolutely work with Lydia & Venlo Studio for future menu photography and branding work."
If you’re a cottage food producer looking to elevate your visual branding without losing the soul of your business, we’d love to help.
Reach out.
