Today we’d like to introduce you to Sadie Peterson
Hi Sadie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The short story? My husband lovingly told me I needed a hobby! The longer version–we had just moved to Denver and my husband was a full time Doctor of Physical Therapy student which basically meant we didn’t see each other much. I worked, he went to school, we came home and he studied and I was bored. Photography had also been something that I loved and interested me, so I signed up for a local community photography class. From there, I found that what I really loved to photograph was people; but not like super-posed. The more in-between moments that really get at the heart of the person and tell a story. I started doing some little photo sessions here and there and I absolutely loved it. I remember one night looking at my husband and telling him, “I think I want to make a business out of this.”
I didn’t really know where to start, but I knew that’s where I wanted to go. Since 2019, I have invested a ton into all sides of photography education and the business-side of things to provide my clients with the best experience. Since starting my business in Denver, we have also lived in Oregon and last year we made the full circle move back to southern Utah where I’ve loved meeting and photographing both local families and visitors from all over the United States and a few from outside of the country.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
With three moves along the way, this has definitely not been a smooth road! It’s been a road of growth, and learning, but not smooth. I think one of the biggest struggles has been all of the moving as well as learning the ins and outs of the business side of things. There’s a big difference between doing photography as a hobby and setting it up as a business; registering with the state, having a business license, collecting and paying sales tax, all the things!
Moving has been fun because I’ve been able to meet the most wonderful people and photograph in incredible places, but as a service-based business it definitely makes things challenging. St. George has been incredible to me though. My first full year here was incredible and I can’t wait to see what this coming year brings to me.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a professional family photographer; but like the fun kind! The kind of family photographer you wish your mom hired when you were little. I believe that family photographs should be a FUN experience full of laughter, games, snuggles, and natural interactions.
When I started my business in 2019, I quickly realized that family photos really stressed people out. Dads were grumpy, mom’s were on edge, and kids did not want to hold still and say “cheese”. I remember thinking, “Why the heck are these people voluntarily paying money and scheduling something that is not enjoyable?”
It didn’t take long for me to pivot and change the way I approached photos. I started incorporating more games, encouraging a few jokes about farts, and really letting kids take the lead for photos. I didn’t force anything. Of course, I promised a few good “smile-and-look-at-the-camera-photos”, but beyond that my photos started to feel joyful. The response from my clients was overwhelming. I saw parents start to relax more, kids didn’t cry, and family photos started to look like an authentic family rather than a stiff stock photo of a family.
I took this feedback and ran with it. It became what I was known for. As time went on, I started to offer even more to take as much stress off of family photos as possible. Now all my sessions include full styling assistance and location assistance. My clients have as much or as little help as they want with selecting outfits. I’ve had several client’s invite me over to their homes to pick out outfits! I also offer full location assistance. I would never expect clients to have to figure out where they want to have their photos taken. I have a full list of locations that I have scouted and know well to offer clients. I am along the families side helping them prepare so all they really have to do is show up to their session ready to have fun.
My family photo sessions feel more like a fun evening spent together adventuring, rather than a stiff and stressful family affair.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
I’m not sure I can narrow this down to one specific memory, but I have many fond memories of just being outside with my family. We spent lots and lots of weekends camping, fishing, and four-wheeling. I think this is what’s always drawn me to also do only outdoor photography; I think it’s often a beautiful place for families to connect and enjoy the beauty around them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sadiepetersonphotography.com
- Instagram: @sadiepetersonphotography
