We’re looking forward to introducing you to Sydney Marie. Check out our conversation below.
Sydney, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is a normal day like for you right now?
When I’m not photographing weddings, my days usually start with a good breakfast (coffee included, of course) before settling into my home office. I like to kick things off by clearing out my inbox, then dive into editing or whatever creative projects are on deck. My cats usually wander in for a few mid-day breaks, they’re basically my unofficial office assistants.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Sydney and I’m the owner and photographer behind Sydney Marie Photography. I’m based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and proudly serve couples across the state in places like Traverse City and Detroit, as well as Chicago, Cincinnati, Columbus, and beyond. I’ve been a wedding photographer for nearly 14 years and have photographed well over 300 weddings. What makes my work unique is the balance I bring to a wedding day. Not only am I there to capture timeless and heartfelt images, but I’m also a calming presence, attuned to both the joyful chaos and the quiet in-between moments. My goal is always to preserve the feeling of the day with care, intention, and a deep understanding of what matters most to each couple.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
One of my favorite origin stories is about how I got into photography. In 2007, I went on a trip to Europe through a student ambassador program. Back then, digital cameras were nowhere near what they are today, so I brought along a 5MP point-and-shoot. One night, after I returned, I was going through the photos with my cousin at her house. She turned to me and said, ‘Sydney, you really have an eye for photography. Maybe you should be a photographer.’ In that moment, I decided to run with it. Now, 18 years later, I’m living the dream and seeing what my cousin saw in me all those years ago.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid to go for it. Ignore all the voices telling you that you can’t be successful as a self-employed creative. Trust yourself, keep learning, and keep showing up, because you’re going to make it and end up with your dream job.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I asked one of my dearest friends, Vee, and she said, “Being in the moment. you capture special moments and try to be in the moment when those special moments are your own.” I love that she put it that way, because it’s so true. Wedding days fly by in a blur, and I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to pause and take it all in. That same perspective has shaped how I live my own life too, taking time to breathe in and appreciate even the little everyday moments.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
For me, peace is found anywhere near water. I’ve always lived close to Lake Michigan, and it’s been a constant grounding force in my life. Walking the beach, feeling the sand under my feet, or simply sitting and listening to the rhythm of the waves instantly makes me feel calm. There’s something about the water that clears my head and reminds me to slow down and just be present.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sydneymariephotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sydneymariephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sydneymariephoto
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@sydneymariephoto
Image Credits
Portrait of Sydney by: Alexis Born
