What if the most unexpected detours in life turned out to be your calling?

Sheila Jarnes, a food stylist, prop stylist, and hand model based in Midcoast Maine, sat down to share her journey from environmental conservation to the deliciously visual world of food styling. With her hands in everything from gardening to cooking, Sheila’s story is a testament to the beauty of embracing curiosity and finding art in the everyday.

Sheila’s career took root in the restaurant industry, followed by an “accidental” entry into food styling in 2016. She described her early days as a mix of excitement and learning, styling recipes for Boston Globe Magazine in her tiny apartment with no formal training. From makeshift shoots with a point-and-shoot camera to working on high-profile campaigns, Sheila’s path has been anything but linear—and that’s what makes it inspiring.

The episode dives deep into what it takes to style a dish to perfection, from the chaos of on-set dynamics to navigating creative briefs. Sheila also shares her heartfelt goal to align her work with brands that emphasize sustainability, blending her love for food with her background in environmental conservation.

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Closing Thought

Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/sheila-jarnes/

Website: https://micamccook.com/podcast

Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast

Would you like to be a guest on the show? Fill out the guest form, and we'll be in touch soon.

Ever feel like you're pouring your heart and soul into your creative work but still struggling to make a living? Like you're stuck in a tug-of-war between your passion and the practicalities of running a business?

In this episode of The Savory Shot, we’re delving into a topic that's close to the heart of every creative entrepreneur: building a sustainable business.

Tamera Darden is not only an amazing photographer, but she's also a business mastermind. She's the founder of Darden Creative, the author of The Photo CEO, and a total pro at helping creatives like you thrive!

Tune in to The Savory Shot and get ready to be inspired by Tamera's wisdom and practical advice. It's time to ditch the struggle and step into your power as a creative entrepreneur!

Don't forget to grab a copy of Tamera's book, The Photo CEO, and check out her amazing work at Darden Creative. You won't regret it!

Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/tamera-darden/

Website: https://micamccook.com/podcast

Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast

Would you like to be a guest on the show? Fill out the guest form, and we'll be in touch soon.

Ever feel like you're running on fumes? Like you're pushing yourself so hard that something's gotta give? Yeah, me too.

In this episode of The Savory Shot, we're diving deep into something we all face at some point: burnout. And trust me, it's a topic that's close to my heart.

Mica McCook is an amazing food photographer from Austin, Texas. She's also the host of The Savory Shot, and she's been super open about her own struggles with burnout. In this episode, she shares her story and how she learned to prioritize her well-being.

Tune in to The Savory Shot and hear Mica's inspiring story. It's a powerful reminder that it's okay to slow down and take care of yourself.

Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/breakfrompodcasting/

Website: https://micamccook.com/podcast

Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast

Would you like to be a guest on the show? Fill out the guest form, and we'll be in touch soon.

And before we wrap up, a huge shoutout to our sponsor, Flodesk, for supporting this episode. Don't forget to check out their email design services tailored for food photographers, and enjoy an exclusive discount just for our listeners!

So, are you ready to turn your limitations into your greatest strengths? Tune in now, and let's embark on this creative journey together. After all, the best masterpieces often come from the most unexpected places! 🚀✨

Ever felt lost and unsure of your next step? Like you're wandering in a fog, searching for a path to clarity?

In this episode of The Savory Shot, we sit down with Rachel Steiner, a food photographer, entrepreneur, and stylist with over a decade of experience. Rachel shares her journey of self-discovery, navigating career transitions, and overcoming creative blocks and self-doubt.

Overcoming Obstacles:

We dive deep into the challenges of freelancing, the importance of open communication with clients, and the power of building confidence as a creative. Rachel shares how she handles setbacks, learns from her mistakes, and keeps her passion for photography alive.

Tune in to The Savory Shot to hear more of Rachel's inspiring story. Get ready to find inspiration for your own journey of self-discovery and resilience.

Remember, the path to success is not always a straight line. It's about embracing the detours, learning from every experience, and finding joy in the journey.

Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/rachel-steiner/

Website: https://micamccook.com/podcast

Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast

Would you like to be a guest on the show? Fill out the guest form, and we'll be in touch soon.

And before we wrap up, a huge shoutout to our sponsor, Flodesk, for supporting this episode. Don't forget to check out their email design services tailored for food photographers, and enjoy an exclusive discount just for our listeners!

So, are you ready to turn your limitations into your greatest strengths? Tune in now, and let's embark on this creative journey together. After all, the best masterpieces often come from the most unexpected places! 🚀✨

Alright, let's get real. Have you ever felt like you're kinda stuck in an old version of yourself? Like you've outgrown those clothes that used to fit so well? That was me with my old brand, "Austin Food Guide." It was comfy, familiar, but it just didn't feel right anymore.

In this episode of The Savory Shot, we're diving deep into my rebranding journey. It wasn't just about changing a logo or a website; it was about shedding old skin and stepping into who I am now. It took over a year of wrestling with doubts, fears, and a whole lotta attachment to the past.

We'll talk about the messy, beautiful process of getting honest with myself, finding mentors who pushed me to dream bigger, and learning to speak up for my own vision. If you've ever hesitated to say what you really want, or you're scared to invest in your dreams, this episode is for you.

Rebranding isn't just for businesses; it's for anyone who's ready to grow. So if you're feeling that nudge to evolve, to step into a truer version of yourself, come join me on this journey. Let's let go of what's holding us back and embrace the incredible possibilities that lie ahead. Remember, you've got this!

When it's time to grow, it's time to let go. Trust the process, own your voice, and remember—you've got this.

Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/lettinggotogrow/

Website: https://micamccook.com/podcast

Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast

Would you like to be a guest on the show? Fill out the guest form, and we'll be in touch soon.

And before we wrap up, a huge shoutout to our sponsor, Flodesk, for supporting this episode. Don't forget to check out their email design services tailored for food photographers, and enjoy an exclusive discount just for our listeners!

So, are you ready to turn your limitations into your greatest strengths? Tune in now, and let's embark on this creative journey together. After all, the best masterpieces often come from the most unexpected places! 🚀✨

Have you ever felt that whisper in your soul, that nudge that says, "There's more. You're meant for more"? Maybe it's a sense of stagnation in your business, a feeling that your brand isn't quite reflecting the beautiful evolution you've experienced. If that resonates, then friend, this episode is for you.

Today, we're immersing ourselves in the world of rebranding and its potential for transformation. Rebranding isn't a superficial makeover. It's not about slapping on a new logo or giving your website a quick facelift. It's a profound process of aligning your external brand with the deepest truths of who you are and what you stand for. It's about courageously stepping into the fullness of who you are and what you offer the world.

I'm thrilled to welcome Amanda of CLD, a fully-remote digital marketing agency that's all about helping businesses find their magic through intentional branding and rebranding. Amanda is a creative visionary with a heart for helping entrepreneurs like you uncover their unique brand story and express it in a way that's both captivating and authentic.

• Unleashing the Power of Rebranding: We'll explore how rebranding can be a catalyst for not just business growth, but personal growth too. 

If you're feeling that whisper, that nudge towards something more, I encourage you to listen in. This episode is packed with practical tips, heartfelt stories, and the permission you need to step into the next, most vibrant version of your brand and yourself.

So grab a cup of tea, settle into your favorite cozy spot, and let's embark on this journey of soulful branding together. Remember, your brand is an extension of your heart. Let it shine.

P.S. Don't miss the end of the episode for a special announcement that'll leave you feeling inspired and empowered!

Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/amanda-shuman-2/

Website: https://micamccook.com/podcast-contact

Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast

Would you like to be a guest on the show? Fill out the guest form, and we'll be in touch soon.

And before we wrap up, a huge shoutout to our sponsor, Flodesk, for supporting this episode. Don't forget to check out their email design services tailored for food photographers, and enjoy an exclusive discount just for our listeners!

So, are you ready to turn your limitations into your greatest strengths? Tune in now, and let's embark on this creative journey together. After all, the best masterpieces often come from the most unexpected places! 🚀✨

Ever wondered what it really takes to make it as a food photographer? Are you curious about the behind-the-scenes magic, the challenges, and the unglamorous realities? Well, get ready to have your questions answered and your curiosity satisfied!

In this episode of Savory Shot, I had a raw and real conversation with Skyler Burt, the brilliant mind behind the "We Eat Together" YouTube channel. Skyler, a seasoned photographer and educator, didn't hold back.

We delved into the nitty-gritty of the food photography world: the gear, the constant learning, the fear of not being "good enough," and the need to adapt to an ever-changing industry. But we also explored the deeper side of things—the passion, vulnerability, and courage it takes to put your work out there.

Skyler shared his own journey, the highs and the lows, and offered invaluable advice for both aspiring and seasoned photographers. We talked about finding your niche, building authentic client relationships, and staying true to your creative vision.

If you're ready to get a behind-the-scenes look at the world of food photography and hear some honest, heartfelt advice from a pro, this episode is a must-listen. Head over to [podcast platform] to tune in.

And remember, as Skyler wisely said, "It's really not the equipment you have; it's how you use it." So, go out there and create, experiment, and let your passion shine through!

Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/skyler-burt/

Website: https://micamccook.com/podcast

Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast

Would you like to be a guest on the show? Fill out the guest form, and we'll be in touch soon.

And before we wrap up, a huge shoutout to our sponsor, Flodesk, for supporting this episode. Don't forget to check out their email design services tailored for food photographers, and enjoy an exclusive discount just for our listeners!

So, are you ready to turn your limitations into your greatest strengths? Tune in now, and let's embark on this creative journey together. After all, the best masterpieces often come from the most unexpected places! 🚀✨

Ever felt like feedback was a sucker punch instead of a helpful nudge? You're not alone. We all cringe at the thought of someone critiquing our work. But what if I told you feedback is actually a GIFT? A secret weapon to unlock your true potential?

In this episode of "The Savory Shot," we're diving headfirst into the messy, beautiful world of feedback. We'll unpack why it's so damn hard to hear and even harder to give. Buckle up, because we're about to turn that cringe into a craving!

Join me, your host, Mica McCook, as I spill the tea on my own rollercoaster ride with feedback. From my first shaky portfolio review to now actively seeking out constructive criticism, I've learned a thing or two. We'll break down the art of giving feedback that uplifts and inspires and the art of receiving it with grace and a growth mindset.

So, are you ready to transform feedback from a dreaded foe into your biggest fan? Trust me, it's possible. Tune in to the full episode of "The Savory Shot" and discover how to embrace feedback as the ultimate growth tool.

Got a feedback story that changed your life? Or maybe a tip for giving criticism that doesn't make people want to hide? Share it all in the comments below! Let's learn and grow together.

Remember, keep shooting, keep growing, and most importantly, keep listening. Feedback is a gift waiting to be unwrapped.

Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/art-of-feedback/

Website: https://micamccook.com/podcast

Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast

Would you like to be a guest on the show? Fill out the guest form, and we'll be in touch soon.

And before we wrap up, a huge shoutout to our sponsor, Flodesk, for supporting this episode. Don't forget to check out their email design services tailored for food photographers, and enjoy an exclusive discount just for our listeners!

So, are you ready to turn your limitations into your greatest strengths? Tune in now, and let's embark on this creative journey together. After all, the best masterpieces often come from the most unexpected places! 🚀✨

Have you ever paused to consider the magic in the everyday moments of your life? How often do we truly appreciate the simple beauty around us? Today, I invite you to explore this idea with our guest, Alanna O'Neil, a designer and photographer from Maui, Hawaii. Alanna grew up on a farm in Vermont, a place where the kitchen garden was the heart of her childhood, shaping her unique perspective on life and photography.

In our latest episode, Alanna shares how her upbringing in Vermont, surrounded by nature and the rhythm of farm life, influences her work. She describes her photography with three adjectives: natural, gentle, and reflective. These words not only describe her style but also encapsulate her approach to life. Alanna’s ability to find beauty in the simple, often overlooked moments, is a testament to her belief in the power of natural light and storytelling.

She talks about the challenges and joys of shooting outdoors, particularly in Hawaii, where the weather is as unpredictable as it is beautiful. Alanna's patience and resourcefulness shine through as she waits for the perfect light, often making spontaneous adjustments to capture the magic of the moment.

Alanna emphasizes the importance of using what you have around you to create art. Whether it's repurposing old barn doors as backdrops or finding props in your own home, she believes in the power of resourcefulness and creativity. For new photographers, she advises focusing on understanding light and honing your eye for detail, rather than investing in expensive gear.

Take a moment today to appreciate the simple beauty around you. Grab your camera, find a spot of natural light, and start capturing those everyday moments that often go unnoticed. Remember, it's not about having the best equipment, but about seeing the world with a fresh perspective and finding beauty in the ordinary.

Alanna O'Neil's story is a powerful reminder that our backgrounds and experiences shape our creative paths in unique ways. Her approach to photography, rooted in a deep appreciation for nature and slow living, encourages us to find joy in the simple things. Follow Alanna on Instagram at @AlannaONeillPhoto and check out her books for more inspiration. If you're a budding photographer, consider joining her mentorship program to find your unique voice and style.

Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/alanna-oneil/

Website: https://micamccook.com/podcast

Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast

Would you like to be a guest on the show? Fill out the guest form, and we'll be in touch soon.

And before we wrap up, a huge shoutout to our sponsor, Flodesk, for supporting this episode. Don't forget to check out their email design services tailored for food photographers, and enjoy an exclusive discount just for our listeners!

So, are you ready to turn your limitations into your greatest strengths? Tune in now, and let's embark on this creative journey together. After all, the best masterpieces often come from the most unexpected places! 🚀✨

Have you ever walked into a room full of strangers and felt your heart race, wondering how on earth you’re supposed to connect with anyone? You’re not alone. Networking can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. What if I told you that building authentic relationships is simpler than you think?

Mica shares her personal journey, filled with relatable anecdotes and practical tips. From the nerves of attending events to the magic of having a wing person, she breaks down how to make networking work for you. Mica’s advice is straightforward: bring a trusted friend, follow up promptly, and celebrate others’ successes. Her stories, like bringing her friend Ana to events, show how a little support can turn a nerve-wracking experience into a fruitful one.

So, how can you transform your networking approach? Start by preparing ahead of time and bringing someone who makes you feel at ease. Don’t forget to follow up within 48 hours and genuinely celebrate the achievements of those you meet.

Networking is more than just a professional obligation; it’s about creating meaningful connections that enrich both your career and personal life. Ready to take your networking to the next level? Tune into our episode for Mica’s full insights and start building those authentic relationships today. Let’s turn those daunting networking events into opportunities for genuine connection.

Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/courage-to-connect/

Website: https://micamccook.com/podcast

Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast

Would you like to be a guest on the show? Fill out the guest form, and we'll be in touch soon.

And before we wrap up, a huge shoutout to our sponsor, Flodesk, for supporting this episode. Don't forget to check out their email design services tailored for food photographers, and enjoy an exclusive discount just for our listeners!

So, are you ready to turn your limitations into your greatest strengths? Tune in now, and let's embark on this creative journey together. After all, the best masterpieces often come from the most unexpected places! 🚀✨