Today we’d like to introduce you to Samia Rahman.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Photography was always a creative outlet, a passion, a hobby… never a source of income. That all changed in 2011 when my parents had to leave our hometown in Arizona to take care of a terrible family incident in their home country. I went from living under my parent’s roof, growing up sheltered and protected, and having almost everything I ever needed… to losing our house, no job, not enough money to pay for my personal bills, let alone my dream pharmacy schools, first world problems to the next level! My family was going through a calamity, both emotional and financial with the pause in income… a day job wasn’t enough. My extended family had taken me and my brother in, and eventually, I started working odd jobs to save up money, but I knew I needed to do more, not just for my mental well being, but for my own self-worth and independence (I’m a millennial after-all, haha). This is when my favorite escape turned into a small business venture.
At first, just word of mouth, then through social media, and after moving to Dallas, I was able to launch it on many other platforms. Photography didn’t just rescue me out of a depression cycle, but the extra cash flow helped me take care of my brother, eventually move out of state, get my own place, and start all over. I’ve now been in Dallas for 4 years, working as a pharmacy software analyst along with continuing to do photography on the side. I started partnering with local artists and businesses who wanted to showcase their products, and even if it isn’t a high source of income, the connection with people and seeing their proud expressions when looking at their work gives me a different sense of accomplishment. Every time I do an event or a project, I’m reminded that even though it started off as a desperate source of money, it will always be about the people and all the memories.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I feel that if the journey was smooth, it wouldn’t have been memorable. With the support of my amazing family, friends and LOTS of good coffee. I was able to come as far as I have. The journey was exciting in its own way, and I have learned so much from the last few years stepping out of my comfort zone as I moved to a new city and living on my own… as I ever did growing up sheltered. So, my advice to others would be, don’t be afraid to experience something you’re not accustomed to, that is one of the best ways to grow and learn. I would also say, don’t hesitate to gravitate towards the support of others around you that have good intentions, use that support to motivate you, and ground you, but don’t let anything or anyone hold you back from experiencing something new. Lastly, believe in your creativity enough to turn it into something more, even if its not for money, be brave enough to share your art, talent or whatever it is that you do with the world… as a women, it’ll motivate many others to find their own place and make their mark in a society where we often tend to be invisible.
I’m going to start a podcast with a close friend about moving to a new city, being a transplant, and experiencing new things stay tuned for advice, and stories. 🙂
What should we know about Samia Rahman Photography? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I focus mainly on local businesses that are starting out and have a low budget while trying to have their products marketed and need photography services or clients who need professional head-shots attempting to make a good impression in the job market. I also love doing couple shoots and low budget weddings. I feel that the wedding scene is already very pricey and that it shouldn’t cost so much if a couple just wants simple memories captured on their special day. I really enjoy making a connection with new and fresh local Dallas entrepreneurs and feel proud knowing I had a small tiny part of their big success.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 480-330-1422
- Email: samiarahman22@gmail.com
- Instagram: samiarphotography
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/samiarphotography
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
