Conversations with Sarah Samuelson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Samuelson. 

Hi Sarah, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
I attended Valparaiso University where I majored in Elementary Education and minored in Photography. Straight out of college, I became a teacher and have remained one for the last 20 years. I dabbled in photography but remained in the amateur lane for a number of years. When COVID shut us down, I really dialed into that voice that knew one of my passions remained unfulfilled. I made the decision to invest in my dream equipment – and it catapulted me into the professional lane. I have spent the last several years acquiring new equipment, learning alongside other photographers, honing my skills – especially in Photoshop – and traveling. The landscape of photography has changed significantly in 20 years, but the camera – color balancing – composing – working with people – some elements never change. When I made the decision to fully invest in photography, I coined the name Storytelling Photography (at least I think I coined it – I had never heard it before – but it is the perfect confluence of my two passions for Literacy Education and Portrait Photography), and I did so with great intention. Here’s what I believe – everyone has a story to tell, and every single person is beautiful. I mean that as sincerely as humanly possible. The key is to believe that, too, for what you believe is what your photographs will reflect. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I believe everything is what you make it. Yes, there are struggles, but I find that most of them are in my mind. When you stop telling yourself, “You can’t,” you often find you can. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
Passion driven. I just got a tattoo on my right forearm that bears the coordinates for Yosemite National Park followed by the Latin phrase, “Nunc scio quid sit passion” – which means – “Now I know what passion is.” This last Fall, I was hired to shoot in San Francisco. While I was there, I took in the sights – things I’d only ever seen in photographs like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz… and then Yosemite. There is nothing, and I mean nothing, that can compare to standing in Yosemite. It was a defining moment for me. I stood there and thought, “My love for photography landed me here.” As they say, the possibilities are endless – and behind the lens, there are no truer words. That is the best part…the gift of the unknown. If you’re brave enough, those opportunities will come to you. 

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Ask. The world is full of brilliant people. People who have photographed for decades. People who have modeled. People who have only wished they had the courage to be photographed. People who hold knowledge and are willing to share. So, ask. Keep an open mind. Evolve. Grow. 

I find it exhilarating that I don’t know what will come out of my mind next. 

Contact Info:

• Website: sarahsamphotography.com
• Instagram: @sarahsamphotography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahsamphotography
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/SarahSam_Photo

Image Credits
Katelyn Crowson
Hampshire High School
Addy Nava
Ireland Mahoney
Taylor Charles
Apollo
Analisa Caref
Delice Java
Burlington Central High School