Life & Work with Sophia Achatz

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sophia Achatz. 

Hi Sophia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I received my first digital camera at 10 years old for Christmas. My parents recognized when I was young, that I had an eye of a photographer. Therefore, they were always handing me the phone or disposable cameras. While experimenting with the Nikon D3400 I got for Christmas, I quickly learned that having 1 or maybe 2 perfect photos out of 200 was not practical. So, I began watching YouTube and talking to local photographers. I started putting all the notes that I had taken into play, perfecting my style and technique. 

When I turned 14 my parents allowed me to show my photographs from the past few years to others through Instagram. This was the first time my photography got real exposer. So, my father helped me create my first logo when I wanted to give my photography a more professional ‘vibe’ online. Having the ‘professional’ mindset allowed me to stay focused and set meaningful goals. I knew that one day I would pursue photography as a career, even if it was only on the side. 

As I continued to work on my photography as a freelancer, I consistently found friends or family struggling to find a photographer at a rate they could afford. So, I began offering to take photos for free. My mindset was simply if I can help them and build my portfolio at the same time, why wouldn’t I? 

I began working towards creating a truly professional photography company at 15. My father helped me design and set up a website while I searched for real clientele. Since I was so young, I knew I wouldn’t be able to charge as much as the pros but I was happy to find a large, untouched market for affordable photographers.  This is when I started to book my own paying clients. 

Starting at 16 I market myself as I’d Snap That, the affordable and professional freelancing photographer. I continue to build a strong professional portfolio and reputation to this day. I’d Snap That has given me an outlet for my creative passion. Although I recently lost easy access to my main customers due to my recent move. But I am looking forward to helping and connecting with a new clientele in Northern Michigan. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My age never matches my experience and passion because I started so young and always knew where I wanted it to go 

The winter seasons seem to slow down. 

I had my son at the age of 16. Making it hard to book sessions seems how was still in school and covid was still very apparent. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I currently specialize in Senior and Portrait sessions, which is what I am known for. But I have been building my portfolio in product and event photography. My senior sessions tend to set me apart from others because I am both a teen and mother. Meaning I can relate to both my client and their children. I tend to make session very comfortable and easygoing. I am most proud of how far I have come since my first photo. I always wanted to become a photographer but never realized how possible it was. 

Who else deserves credit in your story?
My father, Russell Achatz Jr. for constantly providing me with the resources and materials I needed to grow. 

My mother, Susanna Achatz for constant support and opening new opportunities for me. 

Family friend, Bill Mahoney for the purchase of almost all my equipment. 

And all my clients, paying or not, for helping me build my experience and portfolio. 

Pricing:

• Mini Sessions $35 or $65
• Portrait Sessions $70 or $135
• Senior Sessions $120 or $185
• Product Sessions $15/Image
• Event Sessions $190-$500

Contact Info:

• Website: www.idsnapthat.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_idsnapthat_/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sophia.achatz.543
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@_idsnapthat_?_t=8W7ONVZPonz&_r=1

Image Credits
Sophia Achatz