Claire McCormack Photography | dallas

{portrait | Kelly Rucker}

We had the privilege of interviewing one of our favorite food photographers, Claire McCormack Hogan of Claire McCormack Photography. I love Claire for so many reasons... she's an incredibly talented artist, she's an open-hearted lover of people and life, and she's also one of those amazing dreamers who was courageous enough to pursue her dreams. Claire's work is captivating and Mr. H and I are also inspired by the way she lives life. She's so down-to-earth and celebrates life/people in such a humble, sincere way that it can be shocking when you find out her clientele includes: Superbowl XLV, The Ritz Carlton, Maggiano's Little Italy, Stephan Pyles, The Big 12 Conference, Weight Watchers & Jennifer Hudson, DuJour Magazine, The Scout Guide, Daily Candy, and Southern Living to name a few. 

We're honored to have her on the mr.&mrs.h guide today. If want to be inspired by beauty or need some inspiration for going after your dreams, read on because Claire's insight and art will do just that...

MMH: What led you to food photography?
CM: Art directors and editors looked at my website and encouraged me to focus on doing one thing really well. Food was what I loved most. I love the food scene and I've always had a passion for food. I love what food brings out in people. Growing up, instead of playing fort I played kitchen. I always wanted to be a food writer or chef. Food photography allowed me to be in the food world without the mean critiques. It was my happy medium.  

MMH: What was the biggest learning curve in taking on the world of food photography?
CM: I didn't go to school for it, so having to teach myself about owning a company, being in a technical art, and running a business has been a such a learning experience. But,  it's come naturally in the sense that it combines the things I love the most - people, relationships, and creativity. 

Now that I have a few years under my belt, it's definitely gotten easier. But, when you are an expert in a field or, in my case, trying to become one. You are always learning and I can get that wave of feeling like I'm drinking out of a fire hydrant. But, instead of focusing on that I've learned to love the experience of learning. 

MMH: Perks of the job?
CM: In the food industry, chefs are clearly passionate about what they're producing and I'm passionate about what I'm producing. That's an exciting element, to play off of each other in a sense. 

My favorite part, though, is the relationships I get to build.  It's great to get to know people and love on their individual creativity, understand how they work, and how they like to be responded to. Whether, it's the assistants, or the PR team, or the media, or the publications, or the chefs themselves, or their management team, I think it's really fun to get to know all the people that make it run because it's never just one person.

Another thing I love about food photography versus fine art photography is seeing work produced and in print or online. I love seeing it come to life with all the other elements whether it's the the text, the typogragphy, or the story. It's really fun to see the whole thing come together because I'm just a piece of it.  

MMH: Toughest part of the job?
CM: Confidence. There's so much technically to photography. I'm always striving to learn and there's always going to be someone who's better. When you're putting your work out there for criticism or likes and dislikes. You have people who like your work and people who don't like it.You have to be confident in what you are producing. But, you can't be all things to all people. That's one reason I finally picked a niche, that's why I did food photography

Also, comparison. There's always going to be someone who's better. But, comparison is a thief of joy. And, I love what I do. I love the clients I get to work with. I love the relationships I get to build and those are going to be unique to me. I think confidence and comparison are always challenges as an artist. But, it's worth it in the end. I love getting to do what I do, I wouldn't want to be in a office all day or under a big corporation. But, you do have to have a strong inner-voice. 

MMH: Do you have a "most memorable" shoot? If so, why?
CM: There are a lot of different ones for different reasons. But, right after I decided to focus food photography a magazine out of New York hired me to shoot the Food and Wine Festival in Austin. I remember being there for 4 days, shooting food for 10 hours a day, meeting some of the best chefs in Austin - really from all over - and it was such a cool feeling. I remember being exhausted but thinking, "Oh my gosh, I can't believe I get paid for this." It was such a sweet memory of realizing this is what I want to do and I'm actually here. 

But, honestly, in every shoot, I love hearing the chefs' stories. And, even on the littlest shoots, I look around and think, "Wow, I get to do this for a living."

{all images courtesy of Claire McCormack Photography}

MMH: Claire, thanks so much for taking time to share your passion, insight, and art on the mr.&mrs.h guide! We are so inspired by your work and the way you live life. 

{To see more of Claire's delicious photography, head over to her website & her blog. Also, if you're heading to the Lone Star state any time soon, don't miss Claire's favorite spots to eat+drink in Dallas, Austin, and Fredericksburg, Texas.}

-mr.&mrs.h

Adventurer Profile: Phillip Attmore

Our adventurer profiles started as a way to inspire us to truly live life -- not just exist through it. So, we wanted to find people who were doing just that. When we sat down to think of people we know who live life that way, we both thought of Phillip Attmore. Talk about an "adventurer" -- everything about the way Phillip lives life is full of passion and adventure. He has followed his dreams and they've taken him all around the world in the process (including So You Think You Can Dance and Broadway!!). We had the great pleasure of getting to know Phillip when we lived in CA. He inspired us through his creativity and his huge heart. If you need that daily dose of inspiration to begin pursuing your dreams or to continue pursuing them, read on... this adventurer profile will do just that. (Plus, we love Phillip's travel tips -- they are, not surprisingly, full of adventure!!)

Phillip in his own words... (from childhood to Broadway)
My mother is originally from Germany. My dad, a soldier from North Carolina, happened to be stationed in my mom's hometown (Kassel, Germany) and he was also the first black man she'd ever met. They fell in love, and got married in 1959, before it was legal for interracial couples to wed in some American states. I was born twenty-five years into my parents' marriage. (So needless to say I was a pleasant surprise!)  I grew up in a family of artists. My brother was a child actor who was in the Mickey Mouse Club in the 70's, and my sister is a self-taught musician. Although I was born two decades after them, my parents suspected that I too was "bitten by the bug" from birth, so they put me in dance classes when I was three years old to see how I would respond. Not only did I love dancing, but I soon took on acting and singing. After graduating from the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (with a few childhood film/tv credits under my belt), I knew that working in the entertainment industry would be a lifelong pursuit.  And I have been blessed to have had a rather colorful career so far:  from dancing and singing on Broadway, to acting in film/tv, and even competing on the reality TV show, So You Think You Can Dance.  

In September of this year, I'll be moving back to New York City to work in my third Broadway show!  It's called After Midnight. It will star Dule Hill (of Psych and The West Wing) and Fantasia (of American Idol). It is a Broadway Musical that will feature classic jazz standards that capture the essence of Harlem's "Cotton Club" era. Wynton Marsalis will be the artistic director, and the cast will consist of twenty-five vocalists/dancers and seventeen hand-picked musicians by Jazz at Lincoln Center. I will be featured as a song and dance man. Needless to say, I am excited! 

When I consider my family background (i.e. having a German-born mother, a soon-to-be wife who is from England) and when I consider creativity and the arts and entertainment industry (my passion and "bread and butter"), I would say, literally, that "adventure" has been written in my DNA.  Most of my reasons for travel have been tied to work and/or family, and these two aspects of my life have taken me all around the world (to five of the seven continents).  My "top five" favorite cities that I have either visited or lived in (other than my two homes Los Angeles and New York City) are:  Cape Town, South Africa; Moscow, Russia; Paris, France; Edinburgh, Scotland; and Sydney, Australia. 

M&MH: Where do you currently live and what are your "local tips" for L.A. (your "you can't miss it" list - where to eat, shop, visit, do, etc.)?
PA: I currently live in my hometown Pasadena, CA (a city within Los Angeles County). I am totally biased, but I would say that Pasadena is the best city in Los Angeles County! It is clean, safe, rich in arts and culture, and it is commonly discovered as a "hidden treasure" by many who visit Los Angeles for the first time. Los Angeles is huge, but if I could narrow it down to three options of places to eat, shop, and visit, I would recommend Manhattan Beach, Old Town Pasadena, and Disneyland! (For those of you who rolled your eyes at the last option, "Don't hate on Mickey!")

M&MH: If you can narrow it down to one, what is your favorite city/town you've visited during your travels?
PA: My favorite city that I have visited, and also lived in, is Edinburgh, Scotland. This place is absolutely magical if you like castles, hillwalking and hiking, nightlife, and arts appreciation and preservation. It has it all! I would recommend going during August while the world famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival is on. It is the largest theater arts festival in the world with over 3,000 shows and exhibitions to choose from. Projects like "Flight of the Concords" started at this festival. Not to mention, the city is beautiful! I call this place a home when I am in the UK!

M&MH: Favorite hotel? Why?
PA: At the risk of sounding strange, I don't believe in hotels! I have found that the best way to learn the essence of a city is through the eyes of a local. I have become very good at making friends in foreign places with wonderful people, and if I trust them, or if we have had the privilege of building a friendship history, I would much rather stay with them. I do like a fancy hotel every once in a while, but if you like adventure, shacking up with the locals is where it's at!

M&MH: Top three restaurants?
PA: My top three restaurants are:  Uncle Bill's Pancake House (Manhattan Beach, CA); Moyo (Johannesburg, SA); The Delta Grill (a New Orleans style restaurant in New York City).

M&MH: Most memorable travel experience?
PA: I took a trip to Krugar National Park in South Africa once. Between jeep safari's, wild animals raiding our campsite, and fireside stories of survivors of animal attacks, it was an exciting time. We went on a night safari on the eve of returning to Johannesburg. We stopped the jeep in the middle of the wild South African bush, turned the engine and lights off, and sat in the pitch black of night listening to the sound of animals calling. Then we threw our heads back in silence for about ten minutes, and gazed at the stars, an entirely different set of bright and shining constellations. This is my most memorable travel experience, and probably one of the most magical moments of my life.

M&MH: Thanks Phillip! We love the way you drink in every drop of life -- it's so refreshing and inspiring. And, we agree with you, "adventure" is written in your DNA. Now we just need to plan our own adventure to NYC so we can see you on Broadway!!
-mr.&mrs.h

The Local's Look @ Nashville | Allyson & Lyle Phillips

Want an insider's guide to Music City? Look no further. This Local's Look at Nashville comes from one of Nashville's coolest couples, Allyson & Lyle Phillips. As you know, one of our core values at mr.&mrs.h is living life with passion and adventure. We were so excited for these two to give to give us a tour of their city because that's the way they "do life" in Nashville -- full of passionate purpose and adventure. Who better to show us around? 

{all photos of Allyson&Lyle via Teale Photography}

MMH: To start, what do you love about Nashville? 

A&LP: We love so much about Nashville. We love the effortless meld of both big city and small community vibe. The people seem to be so unique due to the artistic and musical draw that Nashville seems to have. We love how comfortably southern yet cultured the city feels. 

MMH: Food+Beverage: Favorite _______?
A&LP:

➺ Breakfast - We love The Perch. It's a little crepe and omelette restaurant in Brentwood. It is small building that is always bustling with people.

{above images via}

➺ Lunch - Burger Up. Hands down, a Nashville favorite. We love the atmosphere and the local beef and produce served at this hip burger joint. They have two locations and both are always busy. They have homemade ketchup and a burger called the Black and Blue burger that is just to die for!

➺ Dinner  - This is a toss up between two Asian restaurants, Peter's Sushi and Fulin's Asian Cuisine. Peter's has amazing sushi and dishes and they always seem to be busy! Fulin's is a bit less popular, but has just as amazing food and service. We love going to both places for dinner. We are huge fans of Asian food!

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➺ Coffee shop - Fido in Hillsboro Village in downtown Nashville has always been a favorite. Aside for having wonderful local coffee, including a honey latte that is to die for, they also have wonderful food and they serve breakfast all day long. So good!

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➺ Health/Wellness - The Juice Bar in Brentwood. It has all organic fruits and veggies in it's hand crafted juices and smoothies! And, it's just a block away from The Perch.

➺ Bakery - The Flour Shop is an absolute darling bakery in Brentwood. Iris, the owner, makes beautiful cakes, cookies, and other baked goods!

➺ Sweet spot (ice cream, cupcakes, dessert spot, etc.) - Sweet Cece's is our favorite frozen yogurt place. When in Nashvlille it's a must visit! Especially the original store in Franklin! 

➺ Dive - Thai Phooket. It's an amazing dive in Nashville. It serves amazing authentic Thai food. It never disappoints! 

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MMH: Favorite shops? What are their goods? 

A&LP: This one is a definite tie between Imogen + Willie and Pangaea. Imogene + Willie has amazing raw denim. They are a little expensive; however, for all the wear you will get out of a pair, it is worth every penny! Pangea is a boutique store. It has tons of women's clothing and jewelry for girls with daring taste. It has a Free People vibe with a local twist!

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MMH: Your favorite area in Nashville (neighborhood, part of town, etc.) and why? 

A&LP: We love most of Nashville but one our favorite places to venture around and hang out is definitely East Nashville! It has a ton of thrift stores and adorable vintage stores. It also has beautiful houses and amazing restaurants!

MMH: Your "must see or do" while in Nashville. 

A&LP: We think everyone who visits town must see a local show! Any given night in the city you can find a good local show with local talent. Blue Bird Cafe is a must go to if you want to hear amazing talent!

MMH: Are there any cool markets (farmers markets, flea markets, etc)? 

A&LP: There are a couple markets in Nashville. The Farmers' Market is a popular one in Downtown! They always have tons of amazing produce and products!

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MMH: What's your favorite greenspace in your city (park, outdoor area, etc.)? 

A&LP: We love Centennial Park! There is a ton of green lawn to hang out on and there are always fun things going on at the park year round including Swing Dancing and plays! There is also a replica of the Parthenon that always attracts visitors.

MMH: Your perfect Saturday (or Sunday) in Nashville looks like...? 

A&LP: For us Sundays are unique! We rest during the day and then we get to go to our Sunday night service of the church we pastor. It is our favorite day of the week!

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MMH: Is there a touristy spot that's actually worth the visit while in Nashville? 

A&LP: Opryland Hotel, especially if you come during Christmas! The lights that they put up are beautiful and romantic! It's also an amazing place to stay while visiting!

MMH: Is there anything/anywhere that you'd tell a friend not to miss while visiting Nashville? 

A&LP: Don't miss out on the charm of Nashville. Get out and go explore. The city is beautiful and so are the outskirts of the city!

Allyson and Lyle, thanks so much for sharing your love for you city and your insider tips! This makes us want to plan a trip to Nashville asap!!

-mr.&mrs.h

Adventurer Profile: Katie Harvill

We love to live--really live. People who live life fully inspire us. Sometimes when we get in a rut of "living life as usual" we just need a reminder that a life of adventure is possible. We all want an extraordinary life, but we have to do things  "out of the ordinary" for it to be "extra-ordinary." Right? For the two of us, it can be hard to move out of "life as usual." One of our antidotes for that has been to read about/talk to/and surround ourselves with people who aren't afraid of living life outside of the box. We know many of our readers also long for and/or appreciate living life fully, so we thought we'd highlight some of the people who have inspired us to do just that. 

Katie Harvill is someone who constantly inspires us. She lives life with adventure and passion. Her job takes her around the world (we live vicariously through her at times). She's not afraid of "life outside of the box" and has been a huge encouragement to us on our journey of walking towards our dreams. Thus, we chose Katie as the first person in our "adventurer profiles"!

Katie's career in her own words: 
I have been working with Solera Holdings, Inc. based out of Dallas, TX for the last 6 years. Initially as a meetings contractor and now, within the last year, full-time. My official title is Director of Marketing & Global Events, but what I feel my role’s main purpose is to provide an environment for experiential learning and ideate our programs around the uncommon. This opportunity to work in and among the 63 countries we operate has provided me the most incredible education and travel opportunities. However, what I have come to appreciate most about my job are the principles and values they have built their foundation on and work to instill within all 3,000 worldwide employees. It’s an art of working and living that inspires accountability, teamwork and  philanthropy. I’ve learned the best mentality within any role is to remain in a constant state of dissatisfaction, always striving to raise the bar.

M&MH: If you can narrow it down to one, what is your favorite city/town you've visited during your travels?
KH: That’s a tough question. If I think about the places that rank as my favorite, it’s usually easy to pin-point between a few that allowed for a personal connection – something outside of the city streets, hotels and restaurants. To me, that top spot goes to South Africa on safari. There’s no place on earth that allows for such an authentic experience – being caught in the middle of nature’s best. There’s something a little intimidating in the lack of control over your outside environment, but at the same time being completely in awe of your surroundings.

The second place, I’d be remiss not to mention, is Siem Reap, Cambodia. This will always be special because it holds a lot of life lessons for me – learning to navigate some changes as well as the true meaning of giving back. Seeing the sunrise over Angkor Wat is my most treasured travel moment.

M&MH: Favorite hotel?

KH: Easy… Singita Boulders Lodge in South Africa (I sound like a broken record).

M&MH: What made it so special?

KH: Any time a hotel or lodge can make you feel like you’ve arrived home takes a special talent. Beyond the food and rooms, it’s the hospitality that makes a good hotel great.

M&MH: Top three restaurants?

KH: My favorite subject!! Sometimes the mediocre restaurants can be remembered as a favorite based on the company at the table, but if I had to rank for food alone, I would say:

1.    Georges Blanc in Vonnas, France – glutinous escape into rustic French cuisine.

2.    Belcanto in Lisbon, Portugal – innovative menu that played tricks between your brain and your palette with the crazy gastronomic techniques.

3.    If I had to give a 3^rd, I’d say a food city – my favorite is New Orleans – Restaurant August, Clancy’s, Jacques-Imo's, La Petite Grocery... the list goes on!

M&MH: Most memorable thing you've done while traveling? (Something we can recommend to our readers-an activity, sight, etc.)

KH: I think the most memorable part of traveling (the good and bad) is when you step out of your comfort zone. That’s usually the time that you’ll never want to forget or never want to repeat. Some of those moments include some crazy adventures like jumping into Devil’s Pool in Zambia which is a little tiny wading pool right on the edge of the Victoria Falls. Another recent trip allowed for me to fly a fighter jet and jump off a few bridges in New Zealand. I think all of these were both the most memorable, but also ones I don’t plan on repeating. J

As a far as a recommendations for travelers, when it comes to visiting a new place, I like to find out the “in the know” spots prior to any trip. LUXE City Guides are a great way to get the “live like a local” perspective as well as Condé Nast Traveler for unbiased insight and good travel app recommendations.

M&MH: What are your "must-haves" in your suitcase?

KH: My suitcase is pretty boring. It usually includes mostly black basics and flat shoes. My backpack however holds all my go-to travel essentials: iPhone, ChapStick, always a hat of some sort and typically tacky magazines that I like to cover up with a Time or Newsweek. My world sort of revolves in or around my iPhone as it gets me where I need to go and helps me figure out everything in between. Plus, my favorite thing to do when I’m in a random destination is put on Louis Armstrong’s What a Wonderful World and see my surroundings with that in my head… It always gives me goose bumps.