Check Out Samantha Rager’s Story

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

Hi Samantha, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Film photography was my major influence growing up. I was surrounded in photographs taken by family – viewing vintage photo albums and peering through negatives brought out my curiosity for capturing special moments. I’d utilize single use film cameras to take hundreds of photos… of my dogs. I trained them to pose for the camera and would time shots of them capturing a ball at the right moment. Receiving my developed film would give me a rush of excitement especially when the photos came out exactly as I had envisioned. One of my favorite photographs from childhood was taken in the ocean with an underwater film camera. I brought a piece of bread into the water to entice fish – a large tang swam up to me eyeing the prize and I snapped the photo. Whenever I see that image it makes me laugh and reminds me of the way film is a special surprise after being developed. One year my family gifted me a digital camera and I went wild – I took endless amounts of photos and videos of friends, gorgeous views, animals etc. In college I pursued biology as my intrigue for living things always called me. A year into classes I signed up for film photography; this changed everything. The process of developing and printing as well as the technical aspect of cameras fueled my passion for this media. The photos I capture today are my art. My style is transmuting vibrance to the person viewing my photograph. When I travel my go to is still on a 35mm roll – nothing beats the quality colors and grain. Capturing portraits of people, my dog, cups of coffee, and stunning scapes brings me the most joy in life.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
A major struggle for me was learning to believe in my abilities. In my youth I was incredibly shy and did not always voice what I needed. I had hobbies and creativity but did not have the courage to bring these skills to a higher level. Over time I learned to accept myself; to be more trusting of my judgement and capabilities. A person who is kind, patient, and generous is the biggest flex – that is what I’ll always strive for.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in portrait and travel photography. Portraits allow me to showcase my passion for people. I get excitement from someone letting me take their photo in their element. Getting to know them during the shoot helps their personality shine through and allows comfortability. My favorite part of a portrait is in the eyes – they express everything you need to know.
Travel photography is a major outlet for my art. These shots tend to be on film and transport me back to exact moments. Sometimes before a photo I’ll take a deep breath and “save” the moment in my head. If I was able to capture that scene on film I’ve given myself a point in time to share with others.
My photography is personal and real, I feel that’s what makes it special.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My mentors have been my family and close friends. My parents and extended family have been supportive of my photography and encouraged me along the way. My close friends and my brother allowed me to use them as my subjects – even when it was most inconvenient! For that I am forever grateful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://samantharager.com
• Instagram: samrager
• Other: https://samrager.printful.me

Image Credits
Samantha Rager Photography