Today we’d like to introduce you to Shadavia Sneed.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Shadavia. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My story goes back to when I was just an 8th grader in middle school. I didn’t know much about photography than other than how to take a photo. Being a part of the school’s yearbook staff, I quickly learned the importance of taking “pictures.” Once I reached high school, my hobbies changed and my photography interest had died down.
In 2012, I was back on my photography wave. This time, I was ready to start my photography path, so I thought. I was a new Mom to a beautiful little girl and just like most parents I wanted to make sure I documented everything. I’m sure I took thousands of photos over the course of the next two-three years, but that was it. My hobby was still just a hobby and I only took personal photos.
It wasn’t until one day, I told my husband, “I think I want to be a photographer.” Just as I expected he told me to go for it. I think I saved about $200 and went to a pawn shop to see what kind of camera I could find. To my surprise, I was able to purchase my first camera, a Canon T3i. I guess that was my way of showing him I was serious. Months and months had passed and my camera was sitting there without use.
A little over two years ago, I booked my first photo session, for free. I was finally ready to get started. In March of 2017, I officially launched my business, Golden I Photography, via Facebook and haven’t looked back since.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Over time, I’ve learned every business has its struggles. If not, I would love to know their secrets. Some of my biggest struggles come with booking clients and undercharging for my work. I’ve noticed that there are a lot of photographers in the DFW area and they have a lot more experience than I do. At times, I get discouraged with comparing myself to others and feel like giving up, but I know my time is coming.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about GOLDEN I PHOTOGRAPHY – what should we know?
I am a self-taught, a natural light photographer based in Dallas, TX. I specialize in all things family and portrait photography.
What am I most proud of? I am most proud that I get to help others remember their special moments and realize the value of photography. I like to take time to build a relationship with each client and get to know them better because to me they are more than just a number. Anybody can take a picture. However, only a person with a creative mindset can create an image that has that wow factor. I believe this is what sets me apart from others.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My family and friends have been my biggest cheerleaders.
My Husband is the one who pushed me to stop wasting time and pursue my business.
My Mom is the one who bought my first lens for me as my graduation gift.
My brother, Davon, and friend, Courtney, are always my ear when I’m feeling discouraged. When I’m ready to give up, they give me marketing tools and ideas on how to keep things going.
Lastly, I have to give a special thank you to Mia, Mallory, Sandra, Veronica, and Courtney. These five ladies have always booked with me and supported me on every occasion. Whenever I’m booking mini sessions they ALMOST always book with me and send referrals. They share my work faithfully and recommend me to anyone who’s looking for a photographer. Because of them, I’ve gained new clients and continue to grow within my business.
Pricing:
- 1 Hour Session – $100
- 2 Hour Session – $150
Contact Info:
- Website: www.goldeniphotography.com
- Email: GoldenIPhotography17@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldeniphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoldenIPhotography/
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.
