Clubhouse Conversations — Chef's Table: Legends

Editors' note: In-depth coverage of cinematographer Adam Bricker, ASC's work on Chef's Table is featured in American Cinematographer's August 2025 issue. Learn more here about how to subscribe to the industry's leading journal of motion-picture production techniques.

In this episode, cinematographer Adam Bricker, ASC, is joined by interviewer Sam McCurdy, ASC, BSC, to discuss his work on Chef's Table: Legends — a spin-off of the long-running, genre-defining culinary-documentary series that explores the professional and personal lives of renowned international chefs.

Chef's Table has marked its 10th anniversary this year, on the heels of its seventh season in 2024 and its follow-up — the show's fifth spin-off series, Legends — in spring of 2025. Bricker has served as a series cinematographer since the show's inception, and this year was nominated for an Emmy in the category of Outstanding Cinematography For A Nonfiction Program, for his work on the Legends episode on chef Jamie Oliver.

Also Read: 2025 Emmy Nominees Include 10 ASC Members

In this interview, Bricker discusses how he developed a cinematic visual language that helps reflect the creative intentionality of his chef subjects; his choice of cameras and incorporation of Steadicam moves into his approach; his lighting strategies for activity that unfolds live in the kitchen environment; his balance of slow-motion and real-time footage; the pressures and rewards of telling emotionally honest stories about globally recognized figures, and more.

Adam Bricker, ASC is a cinematographer whose credits include Hacks, American Vandal, The Magicians, Sorry for Your Loss.

Sam McCurdy, ASC, BSC is a cinematographer whose credits include Shōgun, Game of Thrones, Peacemaker, Into the Badlands and Carnival Row.

You’ll find all episodes in our ASC Clubhouse Conversations discussion series here.