Capturing the Ritte Cycles Esprit road bike in the studio was an exercise in precision and artistry. The shoot focused entirely on the bike itself, nothing added. Just some sexy carbon fiber, integrated cables, and wireless shifting. This was a personal project with my new steed. Designed to showcase just how stark and stunning a dark backdrop can look with products. I learned how to prop a bike up cleanly—and avoid stray reflections on the bottle-cage bolts. Prospective clients beware: I get real obsessive with studio product shots of things I care about.