Artist Statement:

"Cafe Preparation is, as the name implies, about cafes around Charlottesville preparing for the day. I focused on portraiture, more specifically candid shots of the employees of three separate coffee shops in Charlottesville (Starbucks, Mariebette, and Great Harvest Bread Co.). I was inspired to do this by my own job, which is at Starbucks. The daily preparation is extensive and very interesting to watch, so I wanted to celebrate it in a variety of locations.I tried to convey how hardworking and determined these workers are. My goals were to take photos that celebrated the trial and error of working in a cafe, which I think I did. I liked this piece a lot and think that I managed to reach most of my goals." -Naomi Ruzek