Let Me Introduce Myself...
Hello, My name is Sarah Schaub!
I am 21 years old, and I currently live in Traverse City, Michigan. I have always loved photography when I was younger. At the age of 12 I asked for my first point and shoot camera, and I fell in love. I loved zooming in on pretty things, including people, nature and animals. Since then I have just used my phone, but realized that I wanted more storage, better quality, and something that could give me more options.
At the age of 17 I took a few of my friends senior pictures with a borrowed professional camera. This is when I realized that I enjoyed making people look good in photos. I knew what angles made their body look toned, and their face have that beautiful glow. I longed to get my own professional camera for a while, but did not have the funds. Finally at the age of 20, I convinced my parents to get me a professional camera for Christmas. I told them that I would help pay for it, and in December 2016 I got my Canon Rebel t6.
My First Year as a Photographer:
I started off taking pictures of my friends and family. I wanted everyone to see what types of pictures I could take. I knew that I could take above average photos, I just needed more confidence in myself, and I wanted people to trust me behind the camera. I practiced for a few months with different models. I learned that I needed to do anything I could to get the perfect angle, even if that meant kneeling in a foot of snow.
This first year (10 months) has taught me a lot about myself, my customers, my business, photos, and camera. I learned that it is okay if you rejected, at least you tried, and at least you promoted yourself. Secondly, it's okay to promote yourself. That is the only way to get well known, and more recognized. Thirdly, I learned that my clients don't need that much direction on how to pose. When they are more natural, and pose less, the better the pictures look. Lastly, I learned that it is okay to get some bad photos. You'll find the perfect angle eventually, and you can always delete photos that aren't up to par.
FAQ:
What do I do in my free time?
When I am not doing photography you can find me in Traverse City. Either at the beach swimming or tanning, at a coffee shop downtown doing my online college classes for my bachelors degree in Psychology, working as a cook/baker at Morsels, or hanging out with friends/ family.
I also love to travel around Michigan (mostly to Grand Rapids), and to other states in the USA. I love exploring new places, taking traveling photos, and educating myself through those experiences.
Do I have any future plans for this business?
Yes, I do! Right now I am looking to add more merchandise to my RedBubble page. Travel more this year, and get some really awesome traveling photos from around Michigan and in different states. I want to promote more, and get more recognition in my city. Lastly, I just want to get more experience with more clients. I'd really love to take photos at a wedding, and get more family sessions as well.
There are many photographers, why choose you?
This is very true! I only have a year experience of taking photos for people, and having this business.
I would say that the biggest difference between me and other photographers is that I really want to connect with my customers. Since I am a psychology major, I understand how people feel, and how to treat others. For example, I can tell when someone is uncomfortable by their facial expression and body language. I am going into my field because I want to help others. Taking photos for others and making them feel beautiful, makes me feel like a million bucks, and I would never trade that for the world.
I understand that most people can not afford to have really expensive photos done. I want to be the photographer that will give you great photos. BUT I don't want to be the photographer that will cost you more than you can afford. I want to give all of my clients the best possible experience, for the best possible price.
I hope that through this, you can understand who I am, and what I stand for. I am a person who just loves life, and loves getting to know people. Thank you for taking the time to read this, and I hope that you enjoy the rest of the site. If you have any questions contact me! I'd love to talk with you! <3
- Sarah