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PODCAST · arts

Savory Shot

by Mica McCook

Welcome to the Savory Shot podcast! A show about the art and soul of working in the food photography industry.Hosted by Mica McCook, an Austin-based food photographer who creates timeless, theatrical and flavorful art. Dive deep into Mica’s interviews with industry insiders—from seasoned food photographers to prop stylists and photo educators.What We Serve Up: Engaging stories, expert advice, and behind-the-scenes insights into food photography. Whether you’re a professional looking to hone your craft or simply a foodie with a love for photography, this podcast peels back the curtain on the food and beverage commercial photography scene. Here, everyone is welcome, and gatekeeping is a thing of the past.Who Should Tune In? Aspiring photographers, creatives in the food industry, and anyone eager to learn about the art and business behind captivating food photography.How We Do It: Every other Wednesday at 8AM CST, get ready for candid conversations, personal growth tips, and a communi

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Episodes

  1. 073: From Burnout to a Creative Career with Regan Baroni

    When Burnout Becomes the Beginning of Something Better What if the thing wearing you down is pointing you toward your next chapter? Have you ever wondered if the creative spark you feel is trying to tell you something? If you've been questioning your path, this conversation will remind you that...

  2. 072: Contracts 101: Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Food Photography

    Stop Rushing Contracts and Start Protecting Your Work A seven second truth most creatives feel You get an exciting client email, then the contract arrives and your chest tightens as legal pages show up. A deeper question we rarely say out loud What would change if contracts felt like clarity...

  3. 071: Breaking Barriers: How Rani and Uduak Redefine African Food Photography

    Breaking Barriers in Food Photography What if the opportunity you’re waiting for doesn’t exist yet? Have you ever wondered what would happen if you stopped waiting and started building anyway? In this episode, we meet Rani and Uduak, the creative duo behind 117 Collective, a food and lifestyle...

  4. 070: ADHD and Me: Setting Intentions for a Brighter 2026

    ADHD, Creativity, and Building a Sustainable Life Host Introduction and Credentials In this solo episode, Mica McCook, food photographer and host of The Savory Shot, shares her personal journey with a late ADHD diagnosis. Based in Austin, Texas, Mica has built a successful creative career while...

  5. 069: Embracing the Creative Chaos with Ren Fuller

    Embracing Creative Chaos in Food Photography Hey friend, picture this: you're knee-deep in a shoot, sweat dripping, props scattered, and that one shot refuses to cooperate. Sound familiar? What if embracing the mess unlocked your most magical work? In this episode of Savory Shot, we dive into...

  6. 068: From Hustle to Harmony: Finding Passion and Peace with Naomi Smith

    From Burnout to Brave Boundaries with Naomi Smith Have you ever looked at your calendar and thought, “No wonder I feel so tired”? What if your creativity is not asking you to do more, but to care more for yourself? In this episode of The Savory Shot, Mika sits down with Naomi Smith, a...

  7. 067: The Art of Food, Friendship, and Finding Your Flow with Kaitlyn Hale

    A Creative Life Built Plate by Plate Have you ever wondered what your life could feel like if you followed the pull of your creativity with your whole heart? This episode explores that question through a story filled with courage, curiosity, and the power of community. A Question to Ground the…

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  8. 066: Cooking Up Dreams with Danielle Campbell: The Real Story Behind Creative Hustle

    When Passion Starts Feeling Heavy Have you ever loved something so deeply that it began to feel like a weight? That moment when your creative spark starts flickering under the pressure to perform? In this heartfelt episode of The Savory Shot, host Mica McCook sits down with Danielle Campbell, a…

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  9. 065: Adrian Mueller on Turning Curiosity Into a Creative Superpower

    Curiosity. Simplicity. The courage to pivot. What if those were the keys to unlocking your next big breakthrough? What if you didn’t need to have it all figured out? What if all you needed was just a willingness to follow what lights you up? These are the powerful themes Adrian Mueller and host...

  10. 064: Building Standard Affair: How Kira Corbin Designed Her Next Chapter

    Are You Allowed to Outgrow Your Own Dream? What if the thing you once wanted more than anything suddenly stops feeling like enough? It’s a question so many of us quietly carry, especially when we’ve built our lives around the dream. The business. The title. The identity. So… what now? Meet Kira...

  11. 063: Unlock LinkedIn Magic with Jeff Brown’s Inspiring Success Tips

    Are you ready to unlock a world of opportunities and take your creative business to new heights? Join us as we explore the power of LinkedIn with the insightful Jeff Brown, a photography business mentor, bestselling author, and former Royal Navy photographer. With four successful businesses under...

  12. 062: Dish Decisions: Nancy Ingersoll on Capturing Restaurant Menus

    The Secret Sauce to Drool-Worthy Food Photography Picture this: You're scrolling through Yelp, stomach rumbling, overwhelmed by choices, and then BAM! A perfectly lit, mouthwatering dish catches your eye, stopping you mid-scroll. The crisp edges of a golden-brown crust, the vibrant pop of fresh...

  13. 061: Evolving Through Photography and Identity with Kris Connor

    Evolving Through Photography and Identity with Kris Connor Have you ever wondered how your personal experiences shape who you are as a creative? In this episode of Savory Shot, we dive deep into the journey of Kris Connor, an award-winning New York-based celebrity chef and restaurant…

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  14. 060: Fresh Beginnings: Sheila's Leap into the World of Food Styling

    Discovering Your Creative Spark: A Conversation with Food Stylist Sheila Jarnes 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...

  15. 059: Building a Sustainable Business with Tamera Darden

    Feeling Stuck in Your Creative Business? You're Not Alone! 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...

  16. 058: My Break From Podcasting: Learning to Love the Balance

    Feeling Burnt Out? You're Not Alone. 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...

  17. 057: Finding Her Path: Rachel Steiner on Food, Photography, and Resilience

    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...

  18. 056: Letting Go to Grow: Rebranding to Mica McCook

    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. Is Your Brand a...

  19. 055: The Magic of Change: How Rebranding Opened New Doors

    The Magic of Rebranding: When It's Time for a Soulful Shift 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...

  20. 054: We Eat Together with Skyler Burt

    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! Skyler Burt: The Honest Voice of Food Photography…

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  21. 053: Growing Through Criticism: Mastering the Art of Constructive Feedback

    Feedback: Friend or Foe? We've ALL Felt That Sting! 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...

  22. 052: Natural Light Magic in Food Photography with Alanna O'Neil

    Embrace the Beauty of Slow Living: A Conversation with Alanna O'Neil 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…

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  23. 051: The Courage to Connect: Transforming Networking into Authentic Relationships

    Feeling Overwhelmed by Networking? 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...

  24. 050: Reaching 50 Episodes: A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Listeners

    Celebrating 50 Episodes: A Journey of Heart and Soul Have you ever started something with a dream but wondered if you'd have the stamina to see it through? Today, we're diving into a milestone that celebrates perseverance, community, and love—the 50th episode of The Savory Shot podcast. The Heart...

  25. 049: Mastering the Art of Self-Promotion without Selling Out

    Have you ever felt awkward talking about your own successes? Many of us have been there – the uneasy feeling when sharing our accomplishments as if we're bragging. But what if self-promotion didn't have to feel so cringy? In the latest episode of The Savory Shot podcast, host Mica McCook tackles...

  26. 048: Helping Food Photographers Shine: Insights from Julie Skarwecki

    Ever found yourself wondering how to get your photography business noticed amidst the flood of visuals online? You're not alone! Every photographer grapples with the challenge of standing out and effectively reaching potential clients. Today, let's explore some game-changing tips that can turn…

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  27. 047: The Gifts of Imperfection: Creatives and Their Struggle with Self-Care

    Is your passion for creativity consuming your peace? Today, let's dive deep into a conversation that's close to many of our hearts but often neglected—self-care in the creative industry. Joining us is Michael Hilgers, a licensed therapist who specializes in helping creatives navigate the…

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  28. 046: Finding Your Focus When Life Calls for a Scene Change

    Have you ever wondered if you're really on the right career path? Imagine the courage it takes to step off a predictable path and plunge into the unknown. That's the story of Evan Sung, a former literature student who walked away from the planned road for something different. Meet Evan Sung: A...

  29. 045: Creativity From Constraints

    Ready to Unleash Your Creativity? Hey there, creative souls! Have you ever found yourself staring at a blank canvas or a daunting project, wishing you had all the resources in the world to make something magical? Well, what if I told you that magic isn't about having it all—it's about making the...

  30. 044: Embracing Change: Emilie Fosnocht's Journey into Food Styling

    Welcome back to another episode that’s going to sprinkle your day with creativity and inspire your journey, no matter what field you're in! Today, we're chatting with the incredibly talented Emilie Fosnocht, a food and prop stylist who's turning everyday meals into art. Emilie's journey from...

  31. 043: The Art of Starting Small in Food Photography

    Ever felt like you're just not cut out for photography because you don't have the high-end gear? Oh, friend, I've been there, thinking my dreams were bigger than my budget. But guess what? It's not about the gear; it's about your vision. This episode peels back the curtain on starting small in…

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  32. 042: Food, Photography, and Finding Oneself: A Conversation with Aran Goyoaga

    Dive into today's episode, where Aran shares her journey from switching a career in business and economics to becoming a renowned food stylist, author, and photographer in Seattle. Overcoming personal challenges and embracing authenticity, she discusses the art of test shooting, the impact of...

  33. 041: Pitch Perfect: How to Successfully Present Your Food Photography to Clients

    Alright, picture this: You're in an elevator, that dream client beside you, and bam! You've got seconds to wow. This episode's your guide to making those seconds count. We dive into the heart of your photography, finding that gold nugget of an elevator pitch that makes you unforgettable. It's…

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  34. 040: Art, Adversity, Ambition: Christina Peters' Path

    In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Christina Peters, an esteemed food photographer whose journey is as flavorful as her work. Christina shares her inspiring story, from challenging family norms to establishing her path in photography to her evolution from traditional darkroom…

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  35. 039: New Year’s Balance: SELF-COMPASSION and Business in Photography

    As the first rays of 2024 light up our studios, this episode opens the door to a world where your creativity and business acumen coexist. Imagine yourself at this crossroads, camera in hand, ambition in heart, ready to redefine your approach to food photography. But here's the twist: the path…

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  36. 038: Engineering Visual Stories in Food Photography

    In this engaging episode of The Savory Shot Podcast, we sit down with Francesco Sapienza, a former engineer turned acclaimed food photographer. Francesco takes us through his transformative journey from a technical career to mastering the art of food photography in the bustling city of New York.…

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  37. 037: Crafting Edible Beauty: Insights with Food Stylist Lisa Homa

    Get ready for a treat in today's episode. We're chatting with the amazing Lisa Homa, a food styling genius with 25 years of experience under her belt. Lisa's here to spill the beans on what it takes to make food look irresistibly delicious. She's going to give us the inside scoop on breaking into...

  38. 036: The Power of R.E.S.T.: Recharge, Set Boundaries, and Sync with the Senses

    Welcome to episode 36 of "The Power of R.E.S.T.," where your host, Mica, delves into the transformative art of resting. Kicking things off with a heartfelt shoutout to our tribe of listeners, Mica unravels a tale of caution from a tarot reader: slow down or burn out. Today's chat is all about...

  39. 035: Exploring Culinary Optics and Navigating Creative Blocks

    In this interview with Simi Jois, a food photographer, she discusses her journey into the world of culinary optics and the importance of capturing the essence of a brand through photography. Simi emphasizes the need for asking questions and understanding the brand's values to create impactful and...

  40. 034: Unleashing Your Creativity Through Personal Projects

    In this episode of "The Savory Shot," host Mica dives into the importance of personal projects for creators. She shares personal stories and insights, emphasizing how personal projects ignite creativity, fuel growth, and differentiate photographers in the industry. Through practical advice and...

  41. 033: Coaching the Creative Lens with Andrew Scrivani

    In today's episode, we sit down with the exceptional Andrew Scrivani. We dive into the world of his early photography days and trace his evolution to becoming a sought-after coach in the field. We also talked about the transformative power of self-reinvention. Prepare for an enlightening...

  42. 032: Real Bonds in a Virtual World with Gerri Williams

    Pull up a chair, and let's dive deep into the kaleidoscopic world of prop styling with the enchanting Gerri Williams! Ever felt that magnetic pull toward a beautifully staged photo and wondered about the magic behind it? Gerri is here to unravel that mystery, sharing her whirlwind adventures with...

  43. 031: Capturing Fleeting, Fluid, and Fragile Moments with CGI

    In this episode of the Savory Shot, host Mica interviews Steve Hansen, a CGI photographer and artist. Hansen discusses his journey in CGI and how it has impacted his photography work. He explains the benefits of learning CGI, including how it forces you to be creatively disciplined and can help…

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  44. 030: Finding Your Happy Place with Jackie Alpers

    In this episode, Mica interviews food photographer and cookbook author Jackie Alpers about her journey into photography and the importance of finding joy in one's work. They discuss the evolution of food photography and its accessibility as a medium, as well as the challenges of photographing...

  45. 029: Tasting the Future with Evi Abeler

    Immerse yourself in the heartwarming tale of Evi Abeler, a woman who turned the unanticipated turns of her journey into a successful career in food photography. As she weaves her story from humble beginnings, running her personal food blog, to making impactful contributions to non-profits—her...

  46. 028: Savoring Risks: A Flavorful Leap into Uncertainty

    Join the extraordinary food stylist Rishon Hanners, and our charming host Mica, as they unravel their stories, full of daring adventures, personal growth, and triumphant strides in the grand kitchen of life. They inspire us to welcome change, shrug off perfection, and craft our own success…

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  47. 027: Savoring the Art of Food Photography and Storytelling with Penny De Los Santos

    Mica introduces Penny De Los Santos, a renowned photographer and storyteller, in the 27th episode of The Savory Shot podcast. They talk about Penny's experiences traveling to over 30 countries and how those journeys shaped her perspective as a food photographer. They also discuss what makes a…

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  48. 026: A Year of Flavorful Conversations

    In the 26th episode of 'Savory Shot', host Mica McCook reflects on the podcast's first year, sharing her top three lessons: the importance of leaping into action, transforming comparison into inspiration, and the necessity of self-care for creative energy. Savory Shot Shownote:...

  49. 025: Cooking Through The Lens with Dyutima Jha

    Listen to this episode of the Savory Shot featuring Dyutima Jha, a seasoned architect turned food photographer and podcast host who found her creative liberation through Instagram's food world. DJ shares her unique perspective on the power of social media in shaping and nurturing our passions.…

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  50. 024: Unlocking Your Photography Potential with Jeff Brown

    In episode 24 of The Savory Shot, host Mica McCook chats with Jeff Brown, Photographer, Marketing Mentor and Best Selling Author. Jeff shares insight on his experience in the photography industry, and the challenges that are faced by photographers. We speak on the lack of unique branding, his...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to the Savory Shot podcast! A show about the art and soul of working in the food photography industry.Hosted by Mica McCook, an Austin-based food photographer who creates timeless, theatrical and flavorful art. Dive deep into Mica’s interviews with industry insiders—from seasoned food photographers to prop stylists and photo educators.What We Serve Up: Engaging stories, expert advice, and behind-the-scenes insights into food photography. Whether you’re a professional looking to hone your craft or simply a foodie with a love for photography, this podcast peels back the curtain on the food and beverage commercial photography scene. Here, everyone is welcome, and gatekeeping is a thing of the past.Who Should Tune In? Aspiring photographers, creatives in the food industry, and anyone eager to learn about the art and business behind captivating food photography.How We Do It: Every other Wednesday at 8AM CST, get ready for candid conversations, personal growth tips, and a communi

HOSTED BY

Mica McCook

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Savory Shot have?

Savory Shot currently has 73 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Savory Shot about?

Welcome to the Savory Shot podcast! A show about the art and soul of working in the food photography industry.Hosted by Mica McCook, an Austin-based food photographer who creates timeless, theatrical and flavorful art. Dive deep into Mica’s interviews with industry insiders—from seasoned food...

How often does Savory Shot release new episodes?

Savory Shot has 73 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Savory Shot?

You can listen to Savory Shot on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Savory Shot?

Savory Shot is created and hosted by Mica McCook.
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