Savory Shot

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 his belt, Jeff now helps photographers worldwide build standout brands. Specializing in mindset, branding, and LinkedIn strategy, Jeff’s mission is to help photographers become the go-to experts in their niche.
The Power of LinkedIn
In today’s digital age, LinkedIn has become an essential tool for professionals across all industries. But it can be so much more than just a platform for job searching. LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for building relationships, establishing thought leadership, and growing your business.
Jeff Brown’s Expertise
Jeff shares his expertise on how to leverage LinkedIn to achieve your business goals. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong personal brand, creating valuable content, and engaging with your network.
Key takeaways from this episode:
The importance of mindset and goal setting
How to create a captivating LinkedIn profile
Strategies for building relationships and generating leads
The power of LinkedIn newsletters
Common mistakes to avoid on LinkedIn
Ready to transform your LinkedIn presence and unlock new opportunities? Delve further into Jeff’s insights by listening to the full episode. And don’t forget to check out his latest book, “The Photographer’s Missing LinkedIn.”
 
LinkedIn is a goldmine of opportunities for photographers and other creative professionals. By following Jeff’s advice, you can leverage this platform to build a thriving business and achieve your dreams.
💬 Join the Conversation
Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/
Website: https://micamccook.com/podcast
Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast
 
📣 Follow Jeff Brown 
Website:https://thephotographersmentor.com/
Facebook: @focusonmarketingLinkedIn: @thephotographersmentor
Would you like to be a guest on the show? Fill out the guest form, and we'll be in touch soon.

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 herbs, the glossy sheen of a perfectly plated sauce—it all screams, "Order me now!" Your decision is made. That, my friend, is the undeniable power of great food photography. But how do restaurants determine which dishes deserve this kind of spotlight? What makes a meal truly photogenic, and how can images drive sales and brand loyalty? That's exactly what food photographer Nancy Ingersoll unpacks with expertise and passion.
Meet Nancy Ingersoll: The Woman Behind the Lens
Nancy is more than just a photographer—she's a strategist, stylist, and storyteller. With eight years of experience photographing food and products, she's worked with over 200 brands, ranging from small local restaurants to big-name food companies. She understands branding and marketing inside and out, so she makes sure every photo she takes perfectly captures a restaurant's unique style and what they're trying to achieve. Her expertise goes beyond photography—she curates props, advises on plating techniques, and even helps businesses understand how to leverage visuals for social media and advertising. She doesn't just capture dishes; she helps restaurants tell their story through compelling visuals that drive customer engagement and sales.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
Nancy shares her step-by-step process for guiding restaurants in selecting the right dishes for a photoshoot. From asking the right questions (What's your most profitable dish? What's seasonal? What makes people say WOW?) to ensuring variety in textures and colors, she breaks it all down with clarity and expertise. Plus, she shares her Give, Get method to help restaurant owners feel confident in their choices.
Take This With You
Whether you're a food photographer, restaurant owner, or just someone who loves food (hi, same!), Nancy's insights prove that a well-thought-out photo can do more than just look good—it can create cravings, drive sales, and shape a brand's identity.
💬 Join the Conversation
Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/nancy-ingersoll/
Website: https://micamccook.com/podcast
Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast
📣 Follow Nancy Ingersoll 
Website: https://nancyingersoll.com/
Instagram: @thecreativeresource
Facebook: @thecreativeresourceLinkedIn: @nancyingersoll
Would you like to be a guest on the show? Fill out the guest form, and we'll be in touch soon.

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 photographer. With over 30 years behind the camera, Kris shares his unique perspective on how his life experiences have influenced his photography career.
Meet Kris Connor
Kris Connor is a well-known name in the world of food photography. He's worked with renowned chefs like Carla Hall, Wolfgang Puck, and Bobby Flay, and brands like Food Network and Casamigos Tequila have featured his work. But Kris's journey is far from ordinary. Born with achondroplasia, he underwent multiple limb-lengthening operations that gave him a unique outlook on life. This outlook is evident in his photography, as he seeks to highlight the beauty and craftsmanship in both food and the people who prepare it.
In this episode, Kris opens up about his personal and professional journey, sharing valuable insights and experiences. He discusses his transition from photojournalism to food photography, the importance of personal branding, and the challenges of staying true to oneself in a constantly evolving industry. Kris also shares his thoughts on the importance of giving back to the photography community and the need for more inclusive and diverse representation in the field.
💬 Join the Conversation
Savory Shot Shownote: https://micamccook.com/guests/
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.

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 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.
Take ActionAre you ready to embrace the unknown and tap into your own creative spark? Take a moment to try something new in your craft this week. Experiment, explore, and let curiosity guide you.
Closing ThoughtAs Sheila so beautifully put it, “This work is a constant reminder of having to be okay being uncomfortable.” Let her words nudge you toward growth—because magic lives just outside your comfort zone.
💬 Join the Conversation
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.

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 Savory Shot, we’re delving into a topic that's close to the heart of every creative entrepreneur: building a sustainable business.
Meet Tamera, Your Business Fairy Godmother!
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!
What We Explore:
Why "done" is better than "perfect"
The power of "no"
Networking without the ick
Negotiating your worth
Owning your time
Ready to Take Charge?
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!
P.S.
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!
💬 Join the Conversation
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.

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 close to my heart.
Meet Mica, a fellow creative who gets it.
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.
What We Talk About:
The pressure to be perfect: Mica talks about how trying to be perfect all the time led her to feel burnt out.
Taking a break: She shares why she decided to step away from her podcast and how it helped her find balance again.
Finding what works for YOU: Mica talks about how she focused on exercise, healthy eating, and her mental health to feel better.
Making real connections: She shares her new goals for the podcast, which are all about connecting with people in a genuine way.
Ready to listen and learn?
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.
 
💬 Join the Conversation
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.
Special Thanks
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! 🚀✨Get 50% off your first year by using the code: SAVORYSHOT50Visit Flodesk now

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 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.
💬 Join the Conversation
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.
Special Thanks
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! 🚀✨
 

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 Reflection of Who You Are Today?
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.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
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.
Take the Leap
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.
💬 Join the Conversation
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.
Special Thanks
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! 🚀✨Get 50% off your first year by using the code: SAVORYSHOT50Visit Flodesk now

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 experienced. If that resonates, then friend, this episode is for you.
The Heartbeat of Your Brand
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.
Meet Amanda: Your Brand Whisperer
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.
What's Inside This Soulful Episode:
Unleashing the Power of Rebranding: We'll explore how rebranding can be a catalyst for not just business growth, but personal growth too. 
Branding with Intention: Discover the secrets to crafting a brand that's a true reflection of your soul and magnetically draws in the right people. 
Embracing Evolution: Change is inevitable, and your brand should reflect that. We'll discuss how to recognize when it's time for a brand refresh and how to navigate that process with grace and intention.
The Power of Connection: It's true what they say: your network is your net worth. We'll dive into the importance of building genuine relationships and how those connections can open doors you never even imagined.
Navigating the Messy Middle: Growth can be messy, and that's okay. We'll talk about the challenges of the "in-between" stage and how to stay grounded and motivated when things feel chaotic.
Your Invitation to Rise
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.
Let's Do This
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!
💬 Join the Conversation
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.
Special Thanks
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! 🚀✨Get 50% off your first year by using the code: SAVORYSHOT50Visit Flodesk now
 

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
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.
A Deep Dive into the Heart of Food Photography
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's Journey: Lessons Learned and Shared
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.
Tune In and Get Inspired!
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.
Embrace Your Creativity and Let Your Passion Shine
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!
 
💬 Join the Conversation
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.
Special Thanks
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! 🚀✨Get 50% off your first year by using the code: SAVORYSHOT50Visit Flodesk now