Studio News
Laurie Raphaël | 30 Years of Passion
Date:
October 7, 2021
Thirty years of stories, passion, and dedication to Quebec’s terroir—this is what Raphaël and Laurie Vézina entrusted us to capture in images for this milestone in their restaurant’s history. What began as a project with a vision and a clear game plan was soon disrupted by a global pandemic. A long period of isolation followed, ultimately inspiring Laurie to shift the focus of the mandate. It was no longer just about the restaurant but about what it had enabled—connections, shared experiences, and a lasting impact.
Understanding the Concept
Laurie Raphaël is more than a restaurant; it is a legacy of engaged gastronomy, passed down from father to son. Established by Daniel Vézina, the restaurant has always been a place of innovation, craftsmanship, and respect for the land. More than just celebrating a milestone, the goal of this project was to visually express the human side of the restaurant’s journey—the relationships, the knowledge shared, and the community built around a passion for food.
Through this series, we set out to modestly tell the story of this commitment, highlighting the evolution of Laurie Raphaël and the role of each family member in shaping its identity.
Strategy and Positioning
Rather than focusing solely on the culinary aspect, we wanted to capture the soul of the restaurant—the quiet intensity of the kitchen, the creativity behind every dish, and the deep-rooted family bond that has kept Laurie Raphaël thriving for three decades.
Our approach was centered on three key elements:
• The human connection – Behind every plate is a story, a memory, and a moment of shared passion. We emphasized candid interactions, the meticulous gestures of the chefs, and the quiet reflection of those who have dedicated their lives to this craft.
• A tribute to tradition and innovation – The restaurant’s identity is built on a respect for tradition while always evolving. Our visuals reflect this duality, balancing timeless craftsmanship with forward-thinking creativity.
• Light and atmosphere – Using natural and ambient lighting, we highlighted the warmth of the space, the vibrancy of the ingredients, and the rich textures that define Laurie Raphaël’s approach to gastronomy.
Creative Process & Challenges
The biggest challenge was adapting to the evolving narrative of the project. Initially designed as a celebration of the restaurant’s anniversary, the story took on a deeper meaning as the pandemic reshaped perspectives. This shift required us to rethink our visual approach, ensuring that the images captured not just the restaurant, but the emotions, resilience, and sense of purpose behind it.
Another challenge was capturing the intimacy of a family-run institution while maintaining the grandeur of its culinary reputation. The Vézina family’s humility and dedication made this process feel natural, allowing us to document moments that were both powerful and deeply personal.
Final Delivery & Impact
The final collection of images serves as both a tribute and a legacy—a reflection of Laurie Raphaël’s journey and the people who have shaped it. Beyond documenting a milestone, the project became a visual storytelling piece about passion, perseverance, and the deep connections formed through food.
We would like to sincerely thank Laurie, the quiet strength behind this project, her mother Suzanne, her father Daniel, and her brother Raphaël, who charmed and inspired us with his passion. You are an incredible family, and it was an honor to tell your story through our lens.
