Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarahi Mejia.
Hi Sarahi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Looking back on my childhood, I have always loved photographing other people and have always been camera shy myself. My love for photography came from my mother. In the 90s, she always carried a film camera in her purse and loved photographing our family. She taught me how to put my first roll of film on a camera and how to use polaroids, and it was the most exciting thing for me as a child. I shared the excitement with her when Digital became popular. I didn’t get to practice photography until my sophomore year in High School. I am thankful for my dad gifting me my first DSLR (Canon Rebel XSi). With that DSLR, I learned everything about photography and was eager to take photos daily.
I used my Rebel XSI for the school’s newspaper (Lancer Scroll) as the photo editor/ photographer and competed in journalism tournaments. During my years in CSULA, I started doing Event Photography and Senior Graduate Portraits for friends and family. After a few years of being too busy, I slowly drifted from photography. When the pandemic occurred, I found myself with so much time and felt I needed a purpose. I found happiness with photography again and fell in love with the Art when I realized how happy people were for taking their photos. COVID showed us the importance of having precious memories with families in photos. I am glad to be a lifestyle photographer and giving people a permanent memory that they can see for their lifetime and share with the next generation.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Photography is such a broad art form. Throughout my 15 years of photography, I can confidently say that I have found my niche, which is Lifestyle Photography. Throughout the years, I have explored all art forms: painting, ceramics, drawing, crafting, photography, music, and videography. I always knew I had a passion for photography. Even though I knew I had a calling for photography, I still had no idea what to do with that hobby. I eventually found a stronger connection to lifestyle photography and the idea of getting to know people’s stories and being able to capture their moments in life. It’s insane to think that my photos may be passed down in my client’s generation.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in Lifestyle Photography. I photograph people’s milestones: Engagements, Weddings, Families, Maternity, and Graduation. My favorite part of the job is helping clients feel comfortable in their own skin. Most of my clients come to me shy. I help their photography experience be comfortable and fun. From the start, I try to connect with my clients before the photoshoot or their event. I ask them a series of questions to know more about them. This helps me photograph their true essence.
After we get to know each other through video or phone call, I help them with their outfits. We are able to collaborate and bring our vision to reality by discussing colors and the aesthetic of your choosing. I love being able to help clients feel more in love with their authenticity and gain the confidence they need at the moment.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My family deserves credit for being so supportive and my lovely Fiancé Juan (John) Cardenas who loves assisting me in my business and handling all the behind-the-scenes work. I wouldn’t be where I am without the support of my family and Fiance. My family has always pushed me to pursue my passions. My fiance has seen my love for art since our first date and has been one of the biggest motivators since our first date. Thank you, family, friends, and my lovely fiancé who are so supportive and made Sarahi Photo happen.
Contact Info:
- Website: sarahiphoto.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/sarahiphoto
- Facebook: facebook.com/sarahiphoto
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8s-9MTLhy5eUgrxRmqslBw
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/sarahi-photo-long-beach
- Other: https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/sarahi-photo?from=srp
Image Credits
All Photographs are edited and taken by Sarahi Photo.
