I hope you are ready for today’s Monday Musings because it’s going to be a big one! We have photography studio tour with Sarah Sunstrom Photography! But before we begin let’s load up on some eye candy first so you can see the reason why Sarah got to the point of getting her own studio. Her images are just irresistible and delicious. Her clients are adorable and her skills are above all extraordinary. ![Quad Cities Wedding Photographer]()
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![Quad Cities MAternity Photographer]()
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I have had the pleasure of knowing Sarah now for a little over 2 years, and while I have yet to hug her in person we have shared tears and laughter together in the phenomenon that is the online photography community. If there is one thing she stresses it is that educating yourself and getting the best education possible is one of the most important factors of success in this industry. Sarah, like many who venture into photography, has a traditional education in the medical field. Because the education in photography is easily accessible and never ending, it is often common for people to take the self taught route. The struggle with this is that, it’s the type of education that goes well beyond 4 years of college and also the kind that federal student aid doesn’t quite pay for. So photographers often have to spend close to tens of thousands in education and gear out of their own pocket. It is said that the first few years are dedicated solely to this without an initial income. So if you are reading this and considering photography or wondering why you’re just not there yet. Don’t give up! You’ll get there soon enough. Which brings me to say, this is why it’s important for photographers to know the value of their self worth, to be confident and charge appropriately once they have achieved a certain skill set. Because when you do it shows and it shows in a big way! Sarah is the perfect example of someone who has the skill set but just didn’t end it at the click of a shutter. She has invested in her education and business and is proud to share that with her little slice of Illinois. Offering quality imagery for families and babies in the quad cities area, She is known for her incredible use of natural light and dipped in love lifestyle portraits. Sarah is also a mom, wife and strong woman who believed in her dreams and continues to work hard make them truer… every day. Now onto the tour shall we?….. it’s absolutely breathtaking!
Name, business location?
Sarah Sunstrom Photography 100 N State St, Geneseo, IL 61254
How long have you been a photographer?
I’ve been shooting my whole life, but professionally since 2010.
What/who do you love to shoot?
I love to capture new love, whether it’s an engagement or wedding or the new love of a fresh newborn in the family. I also love capturing young families as they grow.
What are the 3 words that describe your style?
Soft, creamy and dreamy
When did you open your studio?
October, 2013
Do you feel having a studio has changed the growth/dynamic of your business good/bad?
I feel it’s helped out a lot. Having a brick and mortar business gave me credibility as well as giving me a meeting place for consultations. I also love my shooting area where I can control the environment a lot more than previously.
What is the biggest challenge in owning a studio?
Initially, I was a bit worried about the extra expenses but I feel having the studio gave me more business so this didn’t end up being an issue.
What is the best part of having a studio?
For me, it’s a dedicated space to work. When I was on-location and working from home, I had a hard time separating home life with work. It was so easy to go into my office and edit images. Now, when I leave the studio, I leave for good. And when I’m home, I’m more present with my little family.
Share with us one tip on how you balance your home life with managing a studio and your overall business!
I feel the biggest tip is creating a structure and sticking to it. I’ve implemented studio hours and will only work, answer emails and voicemails during those hours. This has lifted such a weight from my life. Now when I leave work I can enjoy the rest of my day!
What is your favorite product that you sell to your clients and why?
Our clients LOVE Organic Bloom frames. I live the middle of a cornfield in Illinois and we are a bit slower to have trends hit our area. I was one of the first photographers (and continue to be one of the very few) who offered Organic Bloom. Our clients love that they get to create a custom framed piece to fit the style and decor of their home and it still showcases their family!
What is your go-lens and why?
Hands down my 70-200L Version II. 99% of the time, I’m shooting f/2.8 at 200 mm. That’s the look I crave – that soft creamy bokeh with gorgeous compression!
Do you shoot more on location or in studio?
I love outdoor sessions in a field at sunset. My signature look is that beautiful hazy backlight image just as the sun is setting. I use the studio for kiddos under 1 if it’s too cold to go outdoors.
When and why did you finally decide it was time to open a studio?
I had thought about it for over a year and knew that this was the right time. I didn’t like going to client’s homes for newborn sessions and not being to control the environment very well. I also felt inadequate without a studio and having to meet people at coffee shops. I wanted potential clients to walk into the studio and get an immediate feeling for imagery and artwork that I offer.
Well Thank you Sarah for sharing some details of your studio with us!! And for everyone else…. Be sure to follow her
incredible work here. Until next time!
I have had the pleasure of knowing Sarah now for a little over 2 years, and while I have yet to hug her in person we have shared tears and laughter together in the phenomenon that is the online photography community. If there is one thing she stresses it is that educating yourself and getting the best education possible is one of the most important factors of success in this industry. Sarah, like many who venture into photography, has a traditional education in the medical field. Because the education in photography is easily accessible and never ending, it is often common for people to take the self taught route. The struggle with this is that, it’s the type of education that goes well beyond 4 years of college and also the kind that federal student aid doesn’t quite pay for. So photographers often have to spend close to tens of thousands in education and gear out of their own pocket. It is said that the first few years are dedicated solely to this without an initial income. So if you are reading this and considering photography or wondering why you’re just not there yet. Don’t give up! You’ll get there soon enough. Which brings me to say, this is why it’s important for photographers to know the value of their self worth, to be confident and charge appropriately once they have achieved a certain skill set. Because when you do it shows and it shows in a big way! Sarah is the perfect example of someone who has the skill set but just didn’t end it at the click of a shutter. She has invested in her education and business and is proud to share that with her little slice of Illinois. Offering quality imagery for families and babies in the quad cities area, She is known for her incredible use of natural light and dipped in love lifestyle portraits. Sarah is also a mom, wife and strong woman who believed in her dreams and continues to work hard make them truer… every day. Now onto the tour shall we?….. it’s absolutely breathtaking!
