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As a solopreneur, I find it critical to surround myself with like-minded photographers who support one another in our industry. I have been fortunate enough to befriend some AMAZING women who are not only incredible advocates for our profession but also a great support system for me personally (you can check out all of their stories HERE).
This week I had the honor of speaking with Sarah Goldman, a lifestyle family photographer based in Arlington, VA (but I hope that she will return to Charleston soon!). Before her move to Virginia, Sarah was the president of the Professional Photographers of South Carolina, where we met a few years ago. Sarah was instrumental in helping me to prepare for the challenging world of print competition (if you are a photographer who hasn’t taken the plunge yet, I highly recommend it!). Read on to learn more about Sarah’s career and approach to Lifestyle Family Photography.
Q: Like me, I know you had a “former life” before your photography career. What led you to making the change?
A: I worked as a marine biologist for 12 years before going full time with family photography. That’s what I wanted to be ever since I can remember! I did internships in Florida and Hawaii working in sea turtle conservation, education, and manta ray research. For 10 years I worked at the SC Department of Natural Resources conducting reef fish research. The career change came about when I started to get more and more seasick on offshore research cruises! Our group often spent 40 or 50 days at sea each year. I also wanted to spend more time with my family. Finally during my last season on the boat I decided it was time for a change. I had done photography for fun for many years so I decided to give it a go in 2014!
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Q: Tell me a little bit about your approach as a Lifestyle Family Photographer.
A: My approach to family photos is to create an experience that feels special and memorable. I want my clients to look back at the photos years from now and remember the fun time they had that day. I also want them to feel like the photos show exactly how their family is. I typically start a session with more posed family portraits. If there are babies or toddlers in the family I have their undivided attention for only a few minutes and we can get a nice classic family portrait right at the beginning. If it’s an extended family I’ll start breaking down the family groups and get shots of just the kids, grandchildren with grandparents, couples, etc. From there we’ll go to a different background/spots. Once little ones start to get antsy I let them dictate the rest of the session to avoid meltdowns! We play games, hold hands and walk, etc. and I take more lifestyle photos of the family.
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Q: What are some important things that clients should know about preparing for a Family session? How do you guide them as a professional?
A: Everyone should be well rested, have eaten recently, and – for adults – have some input in what they wear. I find that teenagers and dads are less grumpy for picture time if they have some say in what they have on 🙂 I’m happy to offer guidance in this area and send examples. We also discuss the ages in their family and pick a time that works best not only for photography but nap and eating schedules. I always ask “Is there anything else you want me to know?” Sometimes there are little things I should know like if a family member always blinks in photos, or if someone is self-conscious about something, or if a child has a scratch that I need to “erase” when I’m editing. If clients want a pet in their photos I always suggest they bring a pet handler to hold onto the pet when they aren’t in the photos. I also suggest they arrive a little early so they don’t feel rushed. And don’t be afraid to bribe the kids!
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Q: What types of products do you create for families that they LOVE?
A: Most of my clients order archival-quality prints from their online galleries on my website. I also offer framed wall portraits, image boxes, and albums. I’m a huge advocate of printing your photos! A printed photograph is the only way to preserve a photo. I still have printed photographs from my ancestors that are over 100 years old! Digital files on a USB or computer will either be lost or the files will eventually be outdated and you’ll be unable to open them. Yes, it’s fun to share photos on social media, but you also need to PRINT!
Q: How does it benefit a client to hire a photographer that is a member of a professional association, such as Professional Photographers of America (PPA) or Professional Photographers of South Carolina (PPofSC)?
A: When you hire a photographer that is a member of PPA or their state or local affiliate you know that they are serious about photography and serious about running their business. These photographers know their cost of doing business and will be around long after a photographer that is offering $50 sessions with digital files. They are also committed to their photography education. These organizations offer classes, conferences, and many other learning opportunities for members to learn a new skill and keep up on what’s going on in the industry. PPA also offers degrees and certifications such as Certified Professional Photographer, Master of Photography, and Photographic Craftsman. If your photographer has one of these you know they are committed to their craft and the photography industry with many years of experience. You are hiring a true professional!
Q: When looking for a Lifestyle Family Photographer, where can people find you online?
A: The best way to find me is through my website: www.sarahgoldman.com
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