Under The Lens

Story Telling …

My Moments with Traveling Bestie was  @stmaarten_thingstodo @teamsxm #stylish #St.maarteen #island #islands #trooicalvibes #goodvibes #goodvines #goodvibrations #photographers #photogram #photojournalism #freedom #mercado #vegas #vegasready #lasvegas #models #modellife #writerscommunity #writer — in St Maartens, Caribbean Islands.

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Chefs First Catering Gig ..

Did my first official take-out orders from my own menu! it was an epic luncheon! sold out I want to thank everyone who ordered!! Much Love and Respect! Las Vegas Uniforms Specialty Food Association I want to thank Right on Kitchen for allowing me to try this out! until the next adventure! see more at Chefs Approval

#takeout #takeoutfood #takeoutavailable #cheflife #kitchendesign #chefstalk #chef #chefstable #chefsofinstagram #ChefAtHome #foodiesofinstagram #food #foodphotography

The Artistry of just Being …

My Grandmother’s advice was to never let anyone diminish your dreams. Never let anyone deter you from pursuing your goals. Always take life seriously, but don’t forget to laugh at it too. When you find yourself laughing, pay attention to who’s laughing with you. If it’s those closest to you, then you’re in the right place. But always remember, there’s a difference between those who laugh at you and those who laugh with you. The former will make you feel uneasy, while the latter will bring you peace and serenity. My Grandmother’s wisdom still resonates with me, and I cherish it dearly. #StoriesOfHope #storiesthatmatter #stories #storytime #storytelling #storyofmylife #cheflife #chef #chefchallenge #bakerylife #chefsofinstagram #chefstyle #cateringservice #cateringevent #CateringExcellence #gourmet #gourmetfood #art #artgallery #artoftheday #artistsoninstagram #writersofinstagram #writingcommunity #writer #writerslife #producerlife #photographerforhire #photojournalism #menatlhealthmatters #mypath

”Black Butterfly” My version of a Phoenix Butterfly, my grandmother always challenged my creativity and imagination. #art #artalways #story #stories #display #creativity #female

I will always be about my photojournalism. It’s a part of me, it drives me to be more structured in my life. more focused and solid. #writing #writers #writer #stories #photography #photo #photojournalism

“Fields of Gold” I watched an old Western movie a few months ago. I wanted to remember this scene. I never said I wanted to be a paid artist, I never wanted to be an artist with a Gallery. I do art for expression and therapy. an most importantly I have stories to tell and waiting for someone to draw them, well I decided a long time ago, to stop waiting on anyone and just get it done myself. I’m not the most talented artist or skillful, not at all. But I do create art that makes me at peace and helps me with telling my stories. #art #artworks #stories #peace #mentalhealth

Being a Chef has been the most rewarding career experience I have had so far. I simply love the culinary industry. #chef #cheflife #chefstyle #culinary #gourmet #gourmetstyle

The Chef that was and still is …

Let me weave a flavorful tale about Myself Chef Freedom Mercado, a culinary explorer with an insatiable appetite for exquisite Italian cuisine and the hidden gems of private villas that are throughout the Valley of California, Denver, and Las Vegas! Chef Freedom Mercado is a name that resonates with passion, flavor, and adventure. Imagine a world where every bite transports you to the sun-kissed vineyards of Tuscany or the bustling streets of Rome. This is the world Chef Freedom inhabits—a realm where culinary artistry meets wanderlust. Specialty Food AssociationBig Bear, California Breaking NewsLas Vegas UniformsFontainebleau Las VegasPizza ExpoNAB Show

#storytime#story#storytelling#chef#cheflife#cheflifestyle#chefskiss#chefstalk#chefsofinstagram#chefspecial#lifestyle#myjourneymystory#mypath#menatlhealthawareness#me#chefstory#Gourmetenthusiast#DENVER#california#thevalley#dubailife#lifelessons#gourmet#gourmetexperience#gourmetfood#GourmetGoodness#villas#italy#DENVER#lasvegas

“Stand Alone” piece was created while I was just in mood. In home kitchens, art can enhance the culinary experience. Consider playful prints, food-themed posters, or vintage advertisements. These add personality and warmth to the cooking space. #artists #art #artstudios #studiosart #artgallery #mypath #thejourney #mypath

Chef Freedom’s journey begins with a single step—a step into the heart of Italy. There are such places as these here in The Valley of California Valleys. Armed with a discerning palate and an insatiable curiosity, he embarks on a quest to uncover the hidden gems of Italian gastronomy. From the bustling markets the likes of Florence to the serene olive groves of Puglia, he seeks out flavors that dance on the tongue.

His favorite haunt? A centuries-old trattoria tucked styled away in the cobbled like one in the streets of Siena. Here, he sips on robust Chianti, its crimson hue mirroring the Tuscan sunset. The aroma of freshly baked focaccia fills the air as he indulges in handmade pasta—each strand a testament to generations of culinary mastery. #cheflife#chefs#mypath#career

“Animation” I did this piece when I still trying to figure out what I was going to do next with my animation project. Art and culinary creations share a fascinating relationship, intertwining aesthetics, culture, and sensory experiences. Let’s explore some remarkable artworks that harmonize beautifully with the world of culinary art: #art #artists #artwork #arts #artmoments #animations #expressions #faithfulart

Loneliness, they say, is the price of solitude. Yet, Chef Freedom finds solace in the company of ingredients—their stories etched in every fold, every grain. As he stirs a bubbling risotto in a dimly lit kitchen, he imagines the laughter of generations past. The villa’s walls absorb their whispers, and he becomes part of their culinary legacy.

And yet, there are moments when he longs for companionship. A shared sunset, a clink of glasses, a stolen glance across a candlelit table. But perhaps it’s in these solitary moments that flavors deepen, memories crystallize, and the soul finds its rhythm. #chefstyle#gourmet#food#foodie#foostyle

Royal Raspberry twisted Strawberry Squares

this isn’t hard to make at home, Royal Raspberry Strawberry Squares
These lavish raspberry strawberry squares are a sumptuous twist on classic pastries. With a golden, buttery crust that shimmers with sugar, each bite unveils a burst of fresh, sweet raspberry and strawberry flavors. Perfect for tea parties or special gatherings, these squares elevate your dessert game with their regal charm

Royal Raspberry Strawberry Squares
Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
Add softened butter and mix until crumbly. Incorporate the vanilla extract and egg until dough forms.
Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, raspberries, raspberry jam, and lemon 

There’s something magical about starting the day with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the sweet scent of baking. Imagine pulling a tray of royal strawberry squares from the oven, their golden crusts glistening with a hint of sugar, reminiscent of pop-tarts but with a regal twist. The raspberries, bursting with flavor, create a delightful contrast to the buttery pastry. As you take that first sip of coffee, the warmth spreads through you, perfectly complementing the sweet, tangy bite of the strawberry squares. It’s a moment of pure bliss, a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence to kickstart your day! see more at Chefs Approval

#chefsofinstagram#chefspecial#cheflifestyle#chefstalk#bakersofinstagram#bakerylove#culinary#CulinaryArts#artistsoftiktok#artistlife#artwork#writingcommunity#writing#writingtips#writerslife#CulinaryJourney#myjourney#myjournal#CulinaryAdventure#CulinarySkills#baking#BakingJoy#bakinglove

Ends Kitchen

“Surround yourself with those who understands Your path, they don’t have follow or be a part of it, just understand it. ” – Chefs Approval meeting Chefs Emily and Dwade of Ends Kitchen at the booth of Columbus Vegetable Oils – Des Plaines at Pizza Expo Vegas largest food event! ” The interview was one of the most passionate and honest insights to what it means to be a Chef! (PS they went off the charts with their style of cooking as well!) much love to Las Vegas Uniforms#cheflife#chefsofinstagram#chefstable#chef#chefs#foodie#foodblogger#foodstyle#foodlover#food Las Vegas Convention Center 

see more at www.approvalofchefs.com

To don the chef’s whites is to step into a world of relentless passion and perpetual learning.

In the symphony of clanging pots and the rhythm of chopping knives, I find my beat, my voice, my culinary stride. With each destination, a new dish, a new insight, a rising chef, a photographer capturing light.

From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the vineyards of Bordeaux, my palate expands, and my lens captures the show. Each flavor tells a story, each picture tells a tale, a journey of discovery where passion prevails.

In the heat of the kitchen and the coolness of dawn, I feel empowered; a new chef is born. With every snapshot and every spice, I’m weaving my path, my artistic device.

The world is my oyster, the kitchen my stage. With each travel, I add a new page to the book of my life, with its savory script and photos that speak of the journey.

So here’s to the rise of a chef and a seer, empowered and bold, with nothing to fear. For in every dish and in every frame lies the heart of my travels, the essence of my name. Much Love and Respect to Las Vegas UniformsFontainebleau Las VegasLondon Suits CO#cheflife#chefsofinstagram#chefspecial#cheflife#gourmetfood#gourmetexperience#GourmetCooking#chefsoftiktok#chefstyle#chefskiss#foodiesofinstagram#Catering#cateringservice#goodvibes#travelblogger#travelchef#cheftraveller#londonlife#londonwalk#vegas#fashioninspiration#travelingphotographer#photochallengesmilechallengetoday#photo

Being a chef means embracing the rhythm of the seasons, respecting the sanctity of ingredients, and understanding the delicate balance of tastes. It’s about the artistry of plating, the precision of timing, and the science of heat. A chef is an artist whose medium is food, and whose canvas is the plate before them. #chefs #cheflife #chefstyles #foodie #foods #gourmet

To be a chef is to live for the moment when the kitchen’s frenzy falls silent, and all that remains is the joy of a dish well-received—a silent nod, a smile, an empty plate returned. That is the chef’s reward, the chef’s purpose, the chef’s definition. #chefs #cheflife #chefstyle #foods #foodstyling #gourmet #gourmetfoods

But above all, being a chef is about connection—connecting with the earth that provides, with the hands that harvest, with the team that toils beside you, and with the guests who partake in your creations. It’s a role that demands humility, for every dish tells a story, every meal creates a memory, and every flavor leaves an imprint on the soul. see more at Chefs Approval

 #cheflife #chefs #chefstyle #cheffoods #foods #gourmetfood #chefstyle

It’s all about the Canapes

“These Beautiful Spring Canapés are a testament to the dedication and hard work of my crew who have poured their hearts and souls into creating dishes that not only look stunning but also taste incredible. We are proud to be able to share our passion for food with you and hope that these canapés will inspire you to savor every moment of life’s beautiful moments.” Fontainebleau Las Vegas Specialty Food Association Pizza Expo #chef #cheflife #chefsofinstagram #chefstalk #gourmet #gourmetexperience #gourmetfood #gourmetfood #catering #cateringevent #foodie #foodblogger #foodstagram #foodlover #foodphotography #foodiesofinstagram #mypath #springcreations #crepes #crepeslovers

As I step into any kitchen, I am greeted by the aroma of fresh ingredients and the sight of gleaming countertops and well-organized utensils. It’s another day to let my culinary creativity run wild and curate a masterpiece for my taste buds to relish. see more at Chefs Approval

The Brewing

The Ritual of Brewing: As I grind the coffee beans, their earthy aroma envelops me. The scent dances through my senses, awakening dormant corners of my soul. In this simple act, I find a rhythm—a sacred cadence that grounds me. Each scoop, each pour, becomes a prayer—an offering to the day that unfolds. Coffee, like spirituality, is a pilgrimage—a journey within the confines of a cup. It’s the warmth that seeps into our bones, the muse that whispers at dawn. So, my fellow seeker, raise your cup. Let its steam carry your intentions. And may your days be flavored with both earth and ethereal musings. Live the Journey my Friends. #thejourney #therapy #mentalhealth #spiritualgrowth #mindsetmatters #mypath #blogger #bloggerstyle #bloggersofinstagram #mypattern #spirituality #thejourneycontinues #spirituality #spiritualawakening #growthmindset #therapist

Remember Montana …

When in Montana, take the opportunity to do a photo shoot. It has been some time since I’ve been behind the lens for any kind of editorial photo shoot. I recently had the chance to do a photo shoot and also cook. Model Niki joined the shoot and enjoyed a warm and hearty chowder made with skibobs, potatoes, chicken, and veggies cooked over a fire pit in the woods. This dish is perfect for cold nights camping or cozy gatherings. We also fried fish and garnished it. #model #modeling #modelshoot #modelsearch #tallgirl #tallgirlfashion #photochallenge #photographychallenge #photography #photographer #photographerlife #photographersofinstagram #chef #cheflife #chefsofinstagram #cookout #cheflifestyle #CulinaryExcellence #culinary #CulinaryDelights #culinaryarts #artlife #artist #artistsoninstagram #artistic #artistsoftiktok

I was a little scared doing this photo shoot (we was pretty far up in the mountains lol) But Niki is fierce and has no fear of striking a pose. and we have always have good conversations which helps me keep focused and calm. the photoshoot went well. #photoshoot 

— in Montana.

1 lb skibobs, cubed
1 lb chicken breast, diced #food 
4 potatoes, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish — in Montana.

Nature is a canvas of life and energy if you get a chance to enjoy it. Do it as much as you can every day. #camping — in Montana.

fry fish with garnish and honey! we had a good time. #fryish — in Montana. see more at Chefs Approval