How to bake an Ella Sharba pie: 

• Step 1. Gather ingredients in the heart of the Midwest, none other than Chicago, the Windy City.

• Step 2. Preheat with a first camera and a curiosity that quickly turns into an obsession. Let it warm until photography becomes second nature.

• Step 3. Add a sprinkle of portrait photography into your practice.

• Step 3a. IMPORTANT: Accidentally spill the entire container of portrait photography and full-dive into photographing people. Do not substitute.

• Step 4. Combine a love for bright colors, dressing up, and the uniqueness of people into a dough of fashion photography passion. Dough should be firm and not sticky.

• Step 5. Line the crust in the pan and fill generously with creative experience. Fold in studio jobs, collaborations with designers, editorial assisting, and commercial experience. Use plenty—the filling should be overflowing.

• Step 6. Bake until bold, colorful, and confidently seasoned in photography, ready to step out into the world with pride and an eagerness to wow.