Today we’d like to introduce you to Sabrina Gutierrez.
Hi Sabrina, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Ever since I can remember, I loved taking photos! I loved the blurred background look and intense focus. I started taking photos of just flowers and things around my house but never people… The first time I took portrait photos was when I was 19 of my friend’s daughter and it was something I wanted to do forever! Its always been my dream to be a professional photographer because I love the fact that I can freeze a moment in a photograph where anyone can look back on and remember the feeling+the moment. I’ve gone through so many cameras and never felt like any of them were good enough and it was because I wasn’t taking the time to learn the craft and what it takes to truly capture a perfect photo. I had to teach myself photography. I’ve tried to start my business 3 times and always felt I was not good enough… if I was not booking clients right away… I would feel discouraged, give up & sold my camera. I became a mom eight months ago and it has given me such strive and motivation like you cannot imagine! January of this year (2022) I finally invested in a GREAT camera (my Sony A7III), built my website, booked a session with my brother-in-law and sister-in-law & launched my business. I’ve stayed consistent and PATIENT and have to say I’m truly happy with how things are going and can only hope it gets better. I get excited when I see a submission on website and love the feedback when I deliver a gallery. I’ve learned investing in your dreams and staying patient has worked out for me! If only I had the same mindset six years ago!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There has definitely been some struggles. If I don’t feel I’m booking as much I get a little discouraged but also try to stay consistent because eventually I want my photography to be full time even If that means doing free sessions to build my portfolio. With every upcoming photographer, it’s never a smooth ride because people want to book with photographers that have experience so i absolutely appreciate the clients that take a chance on booking with me. It’s helped me grow so much.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My work is all about capturing authenticity. I like to keep photos as natural as possible and making sure the photos have feelings attached when you look at them and know how they felt in that moment. I’m most proud of being able to juggle being a new mom, business owner and still a full-time employee. The little free time I have, I feel like I need to spend with my son but also need to focus on growing my business. I think about taking that big leap and being a full-time mom+photographer every day.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Although I just started my business this year, I do feel as if people might not want to book as much because they’re scared of contact and it’s unfortunate because photos are worth investing in and are so memorable! I understand the fear and precaution from a lot of people that have unfortunately lost people due to the crisis.
Contact Info:
- Website: Sabrinamichellephotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabrinamichellephotos/
Image Credits
Sabrina Michelle Photography
