Please enter your email and website or LinkedIn to receive more information about our free and paid accounts.
Please enter your email address below and we’ll send you instructions on how to change your password.
It seems the residents of Birmingham are all crossing the road to get a taste of Eugene’s Hot Chicken. This new local food truck is serving up its signature chicken at events and roadsides all over The Magic City. Birmingham Magazine recruited local photographer Rob Culpepper to find out what is so hot about this new mobile kitchen.
The magazine needed some general coverage to accompany the story: portraits, people, the truck, etc. My goal was to find and connect all the elements that make for strong street photography.
The Birmingham Hammers, the local soccer team, hosted an event at Railroad Park and Eugene’s Hot Chicken was there to feed the patrons. Covering an event like this can be tricky because it leaves very little control in the photographer’s hands. The people, the lighting, and the styling are all left to chance.
When we scheduled the shoot, we had no idea what the weather would be like. But the light that night was beautiful—such a gift. The colors of the truck and of people’s clothes were also helpful. Working in a scenario like this involves so much chance since I am not directing the situation. Being ready with both eyes open led to finding the right moments.
Rob’s vision was clear and focused, as he captured images that conveyed the unique experience of food truck dining. Everything from the anticipation while waiting in line and selecting your order, to your interaction with the chef, and finally savoring the remarkably delicious and convenient meal.
I knew I needed something up-close to round out the set. While I was snacking on some hot wings with the writer, I saw this very cute little girl who was completely covered in sauce and chicken. I asked her dad if I could photograph her, and he said yes. I thought that was the picture until I turned around and saw the boy, her big brother, in the Superman shirt. While we adults were trying to be polite and not make a mess, he was just digging in. That’s how you’re supposed to eat hot chicken.
People love to eat, and eat well, so it’s no surprise that images of a large red food truck captivated foodies all over Birmingham. Although the project is finished, Rob tracks down the Eugene’s Hot Chicken tuck whenever he gets the chance. “Their hot chicken sandwich is the best bite in Birmingham right now,” he says proudly.
To view more of Rob’s work, check out robculpepper.com.