We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Savannah Broeren. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Savannah below.
Savannah, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
I think the biggest risk I’ve taken is no longer charging money for my services, but if someone insists on paying me, I charge a very small amount. I know it sounds crazy, but I am in college so I need to put more focus into my education. That is such a small component though. I remember when I was 20 and wanted to surprise my mom with family photos for mother’s day. I did research on photographers and finally realized how expensive it is to hire and prepare for a photoshoot on both ends. I believe to my core that everyone deserves access to and opportunity to have nice pictures of themselves taken. As one night expect, I do get taken advantage of, but that only happens once. The only thing I’ve ever asked in return is to tag me in the photos on social media, and when people don’t, I no longer take pictures of or for them. Even though I have been taken advantage of, taking the risk to not charge people money has been helpful for my mental health. I no longer feel pressure to get my photos edited by a certain date and time. I know not every photographer can take pictures for free, but I am so glad that I am able to!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am a disabled photographer (mainly concerts) based in Colorado. I got into photography when I was a freshman in high school. I needed an extra elective so I chose photography and fell in love! I’ve experimented with different types and styles and found my place in concert photography, but do branch out when asked to. I am most proud of the pictures I’ve taken of my friends in the band Sharone (no longer together however).I’m also proud of the fact that I return pictures in a maximum of two weeks after the event or photoshoot. In this industry, you have to find your hook and that’s mine! I also send updates throughout the editing process so clients are never left in the dark and I respond to questions very quickly.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
I wish I knew more about Adobe Lightroom! I was an avid Photoshop user until I found out about Lightroom. I also wish I used blogs more to help educate me about my cameras.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My mission is to make photos more accessible to people in the lower classes. I also want to start the conversation on inclusivity in the photography community, specifically regarding disabilities. I am paralyzed from the waist down, so I’m a wheelchair user.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Savannah Broeren