Check Out Sam Wooten’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sam Wooten. 

Hi Sam, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I got my first camera as a child when I was around 11 years old. My family was taking a trip to Montana to see Yellowstone. On that trip, it was the first time I ever created a photograph and thought to myself “I could be a photographer, doing this brings me joy”. Once that happened, I wanted to photograph all the time. Every week I would go out into the woods with my loyal dog and explore what a camera could do. At 16 I started as a freelance photographer taking pictures for school dances, events, weddings, and senior pictures. When I was 18 my dog passed away, the one being that was with me on this journey of photography. When she passed, I dove headfirst into my schoolwork at Washtenaw Community College’s photo program picking up what I could, and with the help of my professors I was able to excel in my field. I quickly started my own LLC under the name Sam Wooten Photography to generate income on the side. I currently work as a photographic director for a statewide entertainment company called Project 11:11, photographing large events and running photo booths. I plan to continue gaining momentum in the field, in hopes of one day reaching my goal as a wildlife research photographer. 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My dog was my everything growing up and I always had plans for us to be a brand together, just a guy, his dog, and his camera creating amazing images. When she passed, I felt like I was missing a part of my crew and my kit, it took me a while to get use to her not being there with me. Since then, I’ve created this brand with her image and took time to give back some of the love she gave me by photographing dogs at rescues through the Canine Liberation League helping dozen find forever homes. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’d fall more into the realm of being a creative / entrepreneur. I work both professionally and creatively as a photographer while also using my skills to help businesses like rescues become better and more successful. 

Alright, so before we go, can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I run an LLC under the name Sam Wooten Photography, I take on lots of freelance work throughout the year. Simply checking me out on Instagram or my website would be enough. I’m always down to collaborate on work; best way of reaching me would be going through my website or google business page. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.samwootenphotography.com
• Instagram: Samwootenphotography

Image Credits
Sam Wooten Photography
Kari Klavon
Issac Sellings
Ethan Lovett