Meet Samantha Brandon

Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Brandon.

Samantha, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Hi! I’m Sam- artist, wife, mother, and creative behind Sam Page Photography, LLC. Located in Battle Creek, MI and always chasing that magical light.

Like most photographers I admire, my love for my craft started long before I planned to make it a business. I was gifted my first camera at a really young age- an original Polaroid. And I couldn’t even tell you how much film I used or how many disposable cameras my grandparents purchased me. I am sure my parents paid a pretty penny for the film and to develop all of those 4×6 glossy prints for me. (Thanks mom!) Through the years you could always find me with a camera in front of my face and dreams of working for National Geographic. At a young age I honestly never thought owning my own business would be my career path.

When I started my college journey, I was actually studying law enforcement and journalism. I still had dreams of working for Nat Geo someday, but I thought pursuing a degree in something “practical” and “safe” was a smart move. I endured some big life changes and struggles early in my college career that really shifted my perspective on life. I ended up moving to the UP, a place that will always have a piece of my heart, and the rest is history. I was surrounded by a wonderfully creative community there and a team of people who believed in me. In 2013, I graduated from Northern Michigan University (Go Cats!) with my BFA in Art and Design focused in Photography. After graduation, I left Marquette and traveled back downstate with an idea and dream. While working in the corporate photography world, I started my little business! It was something I did in my free time, nights and weekends, for family and friends. I started to establish a client base. I took on weddings. I traveled the world with my camera by my side. I built a portfolio. I set big goals for myself and business. I continued to educate myself on the industry. Put in some blood, sweat, and tears. I have been able to watch Sam Page Photography develop into something I am so proud of! In 2019, just before the arrival of our first child, and with the support of my husband, I said goodbye to the corporate photography world to focus on being a mom and running my own business. I have been lucky enough to work with people who have shown me grace, given me wonderful opportunities, who have grown with me, who have allowed me creative freedom, have trusted my vision, and have stuck by my side through it all. I am here today because of them!

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?
Smooth? No. An adventure? Absolutely. I don’t think anything goes smooth without having a ton of knowledge and experience, and that comes with time and putting in some work. Learning and perfecting your craft is an ever-evolving process. Knowing your market, knowing what sets you apart from others, that’s so important! Establishing yourself within your community and creating those relationships is where to begin. I think the biggest struggle is just “being all the things.” As a small business owner, you are your own marketing team, customer service rep, CFO, contract writer, scheduler, logistics manager, merchandiser, editor, etc. Learning over the years how to automate and perfect that process has been a huge step in making things go smooth. And of course, learning how to navigate this business through different seasons of life. It’s all about balance!

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
The overall experience is what matters most to me. From the first point of contact to receiving the final gallery and everything in between. I want to be remembered for not only beautiful images that will be treasured forever but how stress-free the entire process is. I specialize in senior portraits, weddings, and families. I feel like my work is multi-dimensional. I like to create in different spaces for different projects. My work is generally very vibrant, true to color, and full of emotion. I am most proud of the relationships I’ve built, finding my own style, and making so many visions come to life over the years! I am often approached about big ideas and projects, and I love using my creativity to make those a reality. I will forever be chasing that magical light for the most authentic, beautiful photos- and I hope that’s Sam Page Photography’s lasting legacy.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
Yes! I am a huge fan of finding inspiration and knowledge through others and their experiences! I love books, podcasts, and hearing stories, tips, and tricks from others in the industry. I enjoy anything to do with the birth of photography, women in photography, and the history of photographic processes. I find the history just as important as modern-day trends. I love a good planner to stay organized. And I think the most important tool you can have, the key to success and doing your best, is to surround yourself with a supportive community. A community of people that offer different perspectives and resources to promote growth.

Favorite Podcasts: 

– History of Photography

– The Photographer’s Journey

– Oh Shoot! with Cassidy Lynn

– The Mindset Mentor

Favorite Books:

– Business Boutique by Christy Wright

– Capturing the Light by Roger Watson & Helen Rappaport

– Women in Photography by Boris Friedewald

Most Used Apps:

– HoneyBook

– Facebook/Instagram

Contact Info:

• Website: sampagephotography.com
• Instagram: @sampagephotography
• Facebook: facebook.com/sampagephotography

Image Credits
The Magenta Project in collaboration with Plumeria Botanical Boutique.