Savory Shot

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 emotional rollercoaster of their professions.
Meet Michael Hilgers: Therapist to the Creatives
Michael brings a unique perspective to the table, blending his expertise in therapy with an understanding of the creative mind. His experience with entrepreneurs and artists allows him to address the specific challenges faced by those in creative fields, making him the perfect guest for this discussion.
Exploring the Struggle with Self-Care
In this episode, we uncover why creatives often find it hard to prioritize their mental health. Michael explains how the continuous demand to produce and innovate can lead to neglecting one's well-being. We delve into the common feelings of being overwhelmed and the importance of integrating mental wellness into our daily routines.
Embrace Wellness
I encourage you to think about your own self-care routines. Are they sufficient? Are they consistent? If not, consider this a gentle nudge to start taking your mental health as seriously as your art. Remember, nourishing your mind is as crucial as nurturing your creativity.
Why Balancing Act is Key to Flourishing Creatively
As we wrap up, remember that finding balance isn't just beneficial; it's necessary for sustainable creativity. Take the steps needed to ensure you're not just surviving in your creative pursuits but thriving. With Michael's insights, let's commit to making our mental health a priority.
Let's continue this vital conversation and support each other in our journeys. Remember, in the realm of creativity, caring for your mind is not a luxury—it's a fundamental part of the process.
💬 Join the Conversation
Savory Shot Shownote: https://austinfoodguide.com/2024/04/15/evansung
Website: www.austinfoodguide.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
 

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 Portrait of Change
Evan Sung wasn't always destined to be a food photographer. His initial academic journey in literature seemed set, but deep down, Evan felt a disconnect. His real passion lay elsewhere—in the world of photography. From a Craigslist ad that led to his first photography job to capturing over 40 cookbooks, Evan's story is a testament to following your heart.
In today's episode, we explore how Evan Sung made the leap from academia to the dynamic field of food photography. His experiences range from high-pressure kitchen shoots to serene moments capturing the artistry on a plate.
If Evan’s journey resonates with you, maybe it’s time to listen to those whispers of change. Whether it’s a hobby that’s calling you or a dream you've shelved for too long, consider what your first step could be towards a career that fills you with excitement every morning.
💬 Join the Conversation
Savory Shot Shownote: https://austinfoodguide.com/2024/04/15/evansung
Website: www.austinfoodguide.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

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 most of what you've got? Intrigued? Let's dive into the latest episode of "The Savory Shot" to uncover the secrets of creativity from constraints!
Discover the Power of Less
In this solo episode, Mica McCook takes us on a journey through the enchanting world of creativity under limitations. From her humble beginnings to the unexpected breakthroughs she's experienced along the way, Mica reveals how constraints have been the catalysts for her most innovative work yet.
Get ready to unlock a treasure trove of insights! Mica shares practical strategies and mindset shifts to help you transform your creative limitations into opportunities for growth and innovation. From reframing constraints as creative challenges to embracing resourcefulness, this episode is packed with actionable advice to fuel your artistic journey.
💬 Join the Conversation
Savory Shot Shownote: https://austinfoodguide.com/2024/04/04/045-creativity-from-constraints/
Website: www.austinfoodguide.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

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 Philadelphia to the bustling streets of London and back has filled her with insights and experiences that she's here to share with us. So, buckle up as we dive into the world of food styling, prop designing, and the power of pursuing your passions.
About Our Guest
Meet Emilie Fosnocht, a dynamic food and prop stylist whose roots near Philadelphia's rich culture paved the way for her artistic journey. Her adventure took an exciting turn when she moved to London for college at Goldsmiths, significantly shaping her creative sensibilities. With a mission to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, Emilie aims to inspire with her behind-the-scenes magic in food styling and prop designing, proving that creativity knows no bounds.
Episode Highlights:
The Influence of Philly
Q: How did Philadelphia shape your aesthetic?
A: The diversity and richness of Philly's food scene deeply influenced Emilie's creative outlook.
The London Leap
Q: What prompted your move to London for college?
A: A desire for alignment with her creative spirit led Emilie to Goldsmiths, London.
Textile Design to Food Styling
Q: How did you transition from textile design to food and prop styling?
A: Emilie's journey was fueled by her quest for a career that resonated with her creative soul, leading her to food styling.
The Art of Food Styling
Q: What misconceptions did you have about food styling?
A: Emilie discusses the learning curve in food styling and the unique techniques involved.
Key Takeaways:
The importance of following your passion, even if it leads you across the globe.
How diverse experiences enrich your creative skills.
The underestimated art and technique behind food styling.
Follow Emilie on Instagram at @EmilyFoz and dive into her visually stunning world of food and prop styling.
If Emilie's journey inspired you, share this episode with a friend who’s looking for a creative spark.
 
Today's chat with Emilie Fosnocht reminds us that the path to finding what we love is rarely straight but always worth it. Her journey from Philadelphia to London and into the realms of food styling shows us the beauty of embracing change and pursuing passion. Remember, creativity is not just in the art we make, but in the lives, we lead. Stay inspired, and until next time, keep creating, dreaming, and being uniquely you.
 
Savory Shot Shownote: https://austinfoodguide.com/2024/03/19/emilie-fosnocht
Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast
 
Would you like to be a guest on the show? Email us at podcast@austinfoodguide.com for more information.

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 food photography, showcasing my (your host) journey from using basic tools to creating mouthwatering masterpieces. We dive into why embracing limitations can actually be your biggest creative advantage. Join us to discover how to turn what you have into more than enough to capture the beauty on your plate. Let's get ready to elevate your food photography game, one small step at a time.
 
Savory Shot Shownote: www.austinfoodguide.com/2024/03/06/startingsmall/
Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast
 
Would you like to be a guest on the show? Email us at podcast@austinfoodguide.com for more information.

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 ChatGPT, and maintaining a personal voice in the industry. Aran also explores the future of food photography amidst evolving technology. Join us to be inspired by Aran's story, blending tradition with innovation in the culinary world.
 
Website: https://austinfoodguide.com/podcast
Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast
 
Would you like to be a guest on the show? Email us at podcast@austinfoodguide.com for more information.

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 about passion, vision, and a dash of strategy, all rolled into one. We're mixing real talk with real advice, aiming for that emotional tug. So grab your notepad, and let's craft your pitch to open doors and keep the conversation flowing. Ready to turn that pitch into your magic key? Let's make it happen.
 
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 ChatGPT, and maintaining a personal voice in the industry. Aran also explores the future of food photography amidst evolving technology. Join us to be inspired by Aran's story, blending tradition with innovation in the culinary world.
 
Website: https://austinfoodguide.com/podcast
Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast
 
Would you like to be a guest on the show? Email us at podcast@austinfoodguide.com for more information.

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 techniques to mastering the digital age. She delves into the artistry behind capturing culinary stories, offering insights that blend technical skill with creative flair. This episode is a look behind the lens and a masterclass in turning a burning passion into a thriving career, making it a must-listen for anyone aspiring to meld art with their entrepreneurial spirit.
 
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 ChatGPT, and maintaining a personal voice in the industry. Aran also explores the future of food photography amidst evolving technology. Join us to be inspired by Aran's story, blending tradition with innovation in the culinary world.
 
Website: https://austinfoodguide.com/podcast
Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast
 
Would you like to be a guest on the show? Email us at podcast@austinfoodguide.com for more information.

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 ahead is lined with challenges. How do you harmonize the demands of a bustling photography business with the whispers of self-compassion? This episode dives deep into this conundrum, peeling back layers of doubt and uncertainty. We explore the highs and lows of creative life, the struggles of balancing a sharp business mind with a tender artist's heart.
In the end, we find our harmony. This journey brings us to a place of understanding and equilibrium. We learn to set goals that resonate with our inner values, to embrace our creative blocks as stepping stones, and to run our businesses with a blend of passion and practicality. So, let's raise a toast to a year of transformative growth, where every shot we take not only captures a moment but also tells the story of our newfound balance.
 
Website: www.austinfoodguide.com/podcast
Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast
 
Would you like to be a guest on the show? Email us at podcast@austinfoodguide.com for more information.

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. He delves into the nuances of lighting, composition, and the emotional connection in photography while emphasizing the significance of passion and adaptability in the creative industry. His story not only provides valuable insights for aspiring photographers but also inspires listeners to follow their passions and make choices that align with their personal fulfillment.
 
Website: www.austinfoodguide.com/podcast
Instagram: www.instragram.com/mica.mccook
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesavoryshotpodcast
 
Would you like to be a guest on the show? Email us at podcast@austinfoodguide.com for more information.