060: Fresh Beginnings: Sheila’s Leap into the World of Food Styling

It’s Never Too Late to Chase Your Dream in Food Styling

Sometimes, life takes us on unexpected detours, and we end up exactly where we were meant to be. That’s the story of Sheila Jarnes, whose journey into food styling turned her love for cooking into a creative career that inspires others. If you’ve ever wondered how to start fresh in food styling or felt stuck in the ‘what ifs,’ you’re going to love Sheila’s story.

The Start of Something Unexpected

Sheila’s career began, of all places, at an ice cream parlor in Gloucester, Massachusetts. At the time, she didn’t even know what a food stylist was. But her passion for food, paired with a willingness to explore the unknown, set the stage for what would become a fulfilling creative career.

After leaving her government job to pursue her interest in food, Sheila dabbled in restaurants, started a food blog (aptly named All Things Considered Yummy), and learned the ropes of styling by sheer trial and error. Her first big break? Styling for the Boston Globe Magazine right from her tiny apartment, using whatever she had on hand. She didn’t have all the answers—or even a clear path—but she showed up anyway.

Let that be a reminder: You don’t need perfection to start. You just need to take the first step.

Lessons from the Leap

1. It’s Okay to Be a Beginner

Sheila openly admits she didn’t have a clue what she was doing when she started. Think back to when you first started out – we all have those “messy” moments! Sheila was no different. She was learning as she went, cooking up recipes exactly as they were written and snapping pics with a simple camera. It wasn’t fancy, but hey, that’s how we all start, right?

The takeaway? It’s totally okay if you’re not a pro right away! What really counts is that you’re excited to learn and get better every day.

2. Embrace Change—and the Messiness That Comes with It

When the pandemic hit, Sheila, like many creatives, had to pivot. Gone were the restaurant gigs and in-person collaborations. Instead, she turned to remote shoots and creative experiments at home.

Her resilience and courage to embrace change during uncertain times remind us of a beautiful truth: the messiest seasons of life often plant the seeds for the most incredible growth.

3. Surround Yourself with a Supportive Team

Food styling is no solo act. Sheila likens the energy on set to a “roving circus,” where everyone plays a vital role. Whether it’s photographers, stylists, or assistants, the magic happens when everyone brings their unique strengths to the table.

Here’s the golden nugget: Trust your team, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Together, you can create something truly extraordinary.

From “What If” to “Why Not”

Sheila’s journey reminds us that pursuing a creative dream isn’t about having a foolproof plan—it’s about showing up, staying curious, and being okay with the unknown.

When asked what advice she’d give to someone starting out, Sheila said it perfectly: “Be okay with being uncomfortable.” Whether it’s trying a new technique, stepping into a new role, or experimenting with something unfamiliar, growth happens when we lean into discomfort.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Creatives

Start Small: Whether it’s a test shoot with friends or experimenting at home, begin where you are with what you have.
Plan Ahead: Before a shoot, think about your story, your audience, and the mood you want to create. A little preparation can go a long way.
Stay Open to Learning: Every gig, every mistake, every interaction is an opportunity to learn. Keep your curiosity alive.
Align with Your Values: Sheila’s mission to work with environmentally conscious brands shows the power of aligning your work with your passions and principles.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

What’s your “what if” dream? Have you taken steps toward it, or are you waiting for the “perfect” time? I’d love to hear your stories, your questions, and your thoughts in the comments.

And if you’re in the creative world yourself, tell us—what’s one lesson you’ve learned that has shaped your journey?

About Sheila

Sheila Jarnes is a freelance food stylist, occasional prop stylist, and hand model based in Midcoast Maine. With a passion for creating visually stunning scenes, Sheila spends her free time cooking a wide variety of dishes and tending to her garden.

Sheila’s professional background includes a foundation in Environmental Conservation, having worked as an outreach specialist for NOAA Fisheries Service. Her experience extends to the restaurant industry, where she gained invaluable insights working in the front of house and kitchens, including an internship at the renowned Chez Panisse in Berkeley, California.

Episode Breakdown

Sheila’s career transition from environmental conservation to food styling in 2016.
Learning and growth as an assistant food stylist on larger commercial shoots.
Sheila’s struggles and creative rediscovery during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The pivotal decision to pursue food styling full-time starting in 2021.
The unique dynamics and preparation of working with photographers on food shoots.
Emphasis on targeting ethically aligned food brands for future styling work.
Inspiration drawn from diverse cookbooks and cultural culinary stories.
Advice for creatives: Stay curious, embrace discomfort, and expand your skills.

Action Checklist

Define your style and who you want to create for.
Nail your shot list and prep to keep your shoots smooth and stress-free.
Attract the right clients by showcasing work that reflects your values.
Use test shoots to push your limits and refine your skills.
Collaborate with photographers and communicate clearly to create something magical together.