Suganya Lakshmi gives an insight into her experience as a food blogger
Blogging seems to have become the norm today, especially for those who love to share their interests, ideas and opinions. The internet is loaded with bloggers and vloggers who consistently post updates on literally any topic under the sun – it could be cooking, baking, beauty, pet care, child care or even fashion. But how does it really work? RITZ interacts with popular bloggers from Kerala to find out what’s the frenzy all about!
Compiled by: Riya Sonny Datson
Suganya Lakshmi
Blog: Su Says
What is the story behind the name of your blog?
Honestly, I didn’t want to restrict myself to a food/cooking name and since ‘Su’ was one of my nicknames, a friend came up with the idea of ‘Su Says’. I like that it just means my opinion or take on any variety of topics.
What prompted you to start a blog?
I used to be a terrible cook! You know, the kind that couldn’t even make Maggi. But when I started to put in a little effort, I realised that cooking didn’t have to be hard at all. Also, when I started eating at home a lot more, I lost a ton of weight without dieting. People kept asking me how I did it so I decided to start writing it down, because really ANYONE can cook.
What is the one thing you love about cooking?
I like to eat and try new food and flavours so when I’m cooking I love that I can experiment with the flavours I think go well together. And sharing food, I think food is a large part of bonding, so if I can share a meal with you, I feel like you’ve gotten to know me a little better.
What is the one thing you love about blogging?
Cooking is a little personal to me. I’m half-Indian, half-Sri Lankan and I grew up in Malaysia and my food is largely influenced by these flavours I grew up with. When I make something, it’s not always about feeding a hungry stomach, sometimes it’s about re-creating a sentiment or nostalgic memory. Writing about it helps me share the journey.
Tell us about your first experience as a food blogger
I don’t remember! I just started writing no agenda really, not sure when I became a food blogger?
What has been your most ‘liked’ blog post till date?
I am not sure about most liked, but the post I know that most people have tried recreating is a cauliflower fried rice recipe.
Any uncomfortable/quirky experience as a food blogger?
I’m just starting out but I’ll let you know when I do.
How lucrative is food blogging?
Everyone’s a blogger these days, so the competition is tough! To continue with passion and zero expectations is the best way to sustain yourself whether you have just 100 readers or 10,000 readers.
Do you think photographs are important for a blogger? How do you handle photography?
I’m a writer by profession, so I really want to say no, great content is enough. But the truth is, today people rarely have the patience to read so photography is important in a blog. Especially with food, you have to make people hungry! I struggle with photography, I’ve got myself a DSLR and look up food styling pics on Pinterest and Instagram for inspiration.
Most incredible food experience during a holiday
Eating local – street food, hole in the wall cafes…etc. Always eat what the locals eat, that’s usually the best food.
What’s on your bucket list as a blogger?
To be a better food stylist and photographer and to maybe start selling some of the food in pop-up stalls.
Tips to an aspiring food blogger:
Keep writing/cooking. Initially not many people are going to read your content but give your best for the few people who do.
Rapid fire:
- Favourite Dish: Anything Southeast Asian
- Favourite Celebrity Chef: Jamie Oliver
- Favourite food show: I don’t follow a single one religiously, but TLC has a lot of food shows I watch.
- Favourite Cookbook: Easy Exotic by Padma Lakshmi
- Inspiration to cook: My grandma and my mum. They make magic in the kitchen.
