Fresh From the Bay: Drayton Harbor Oysters | Seattle Food Photography

There’s something magical about photographing food that comes straight from the source—and this recent shoot for 1889 Magazine at Drayton Harbor Oyster Company was exactly that. Nestled in Blaine, WA, right on the water’s edge, Drayton Harbor Oyster Co. is all about sustainably farmed, hyper-local shellfish that reflect the Pacific Northwest at its very best.

For this project, I had the joy of showcasing their oysters in every delicious form: freshly shucked on the half shell, bubbling hot off the grill, and piled high in some seriously drool-worthy tacos. Each dish told its own story of place, season, and community.

Fresh Oysters on the Half Shell

There’s nothing quite like the sparkle of freshly shucked oysters. We leaned into the natural textures of the shells, icy platters, and those briny little jewels to let the food do all the talking. Close-up shots highlighted the freshness and subtle variations that make each oyster unique—just the way Drayton Harbor grows them.

Grilled Goodness

From raw and delicate to rich and smoky, photographing grilled oysters gave us a whole new flavor of storytelling. With sizzling butter, bubbling cheese, and charred edges, these oysters practically begged to be eaten the second we finished each shot. It’s the kind of food photography that captures not just the look of the dish, but the experience—warmth, comfort, and that irresistible scent of the grill.

Oyster Tacos That Steal the Show

Who says tacos are only for Tuesdays? These oyster tacos were loaded with texture, color, and a playful spirit that made them so fun to photograph. Crispy oysters, bright slaws, tangy sauces—it was a visual (and edible) celebration of everything Drayton Harbor does so well.

Why I Love Shoots Like This

As a Seattle food photographer, I live for projects that celebrate the bounty of the Pacific Northwest. Working with 1889 Magazine and Drayton Harbor Oyster Co. was a dream—bringing together local storytelling, sustainability, and, of course, incredible food.

Every oyster in front of my lens wasn’t just a dish—it was a little piece of the bay, the hard work of dedicated farmers, and the heart of a coastal community that values quality and connection.

If you’re a restaurant, farm, or food brand in the Seattle area looking to bring your story to life through photography, I’d love to chat. You can check out more of my work at on my Insta and reach out anytime—I’m always excited to help showcase the flavors that make the PNW so special.