Check Out Sheena Lad’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sheena Lad.

Hi Sheena, 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?
My diverse upbringing has inspired so much of what I do today.  With Parents of Indian origin who grew up in Africa, there has been meaning behind every name, spice, seed, garment, musical instrument, flower, dance and every little detail.  Weekends were spent in nature, planting seeds in the garden, nurturing them, watching them grow, and seasonal harvests were plenty.  I come from a rich cultural background, it’s something I’ll always be deeply appreciative of and comes through in many aspects of my work when I’m behind the camera with you.

I started my career as a graphic designer over 20 years ago.  A strong professional start took me on a journey I would have never imagined.  Over the years, I found myself wearing multiple hats as a visual designer, photographer, project manager and real estate investor.  Through each facet of my career and personal life, there was always a camera in hand and the love for the lens naturally grew and grew.

After testing a few different business models, Vàve was born out of a quest to define culture, help people in their businesses, and honor my roots through Photography.  This journey led to the discovery of the word Vàve.  Pronounced “Vah-veh,” it’s a word with deep value which translates literally to “sow seeds” in my native language, Gujarati. The analogy was perfect, just like a seed sown grows into a blossoming plant, so does a thriving business when nurtured with care.  My mission became clear: to create compelling brand imagery to help you sow your own seeds of success in your business.  This brings me so much joy!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There were many struggles along the way. The biggest one being my father passing away when I was in my early 20’s. This story is too close to the heart to be sharing in an article, so I’ll leave you with some words of wisdom he used to love to share: “Give a man a fish, you’ll feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you’ll feed him for a lifetime.”

And yes, he did actually teach us to fish 😉

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a Brand Photographer! Being able to combine my love of brand design, photography, architecture, and hospitality has been the ultimate source of joy for me. This is a niche style of photography that captures the heart and soul of a business, and most importantly the people behind it. This is very much about showing off what makes you and your brand unique and telling your story through images to connect with your audience in a way that words just can’t describe.

I’m known for helping people feel comfortable, confident and super prepared both before and during their photo session. It feels incredible to hear my clients’ reactions when they see their photos after telling me they’ve never had an image of themselves that they feel proud of. If this is you.. I seriously challenge you to reach out and put me to the test!

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
Yes. It was incredibly humbling to be a small business owner unable to work during peak times of the crisis. Professional and personal lessons will stay with us for life.

A few key takeaways:
1. The importance of community is invaluable.
2. We are an adaptable and resourceful society, we are able to thrive in disaster.
3. We are also very easily influenced by the media.
4. We can work perfectly fine from home, consult with doctors, and can avoid traffic in many circumstances!
5. Constant reminder to be grateful.

Pricing:

• 3-5 Hour Experience: $2700+
• 90 Minute Session: $700-$1350
• 30 Minute Session: $600$750
• Mini Sessions: $500-$650
• *pricing as of 2024!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.vavephoto.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vave.photo/

Image Credits
copyright @vave