We recently connected with Sayde Jabra and have shared our conversation below.

Sayde, appreciate you joining us today. What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

Becoming a successful photographer, especially if you’re starting from a place of practice and are relatively new to the field, requires dedication, patience, flexibility and a unique vision.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

13 years ago, I have decided to quit my 9 to 5 banking career and follow my photography passion and that passion is crucial for success. Not having a single clue about photography, I dedicated myself to improving my skills and continuously learn about the different aspects. I invested time in learning the technical aspects of photography, such as camera settings, composition, lighting, and post-processing techniques. There were online articles and youtube videos available to help me acquire knowledge. Consistent practice was essential for honing my skills as well as experimenting with various subjects, styles, and techniques to develop my own unique style. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes! They are valuable learning experiences. As you gain experience, create a strong portfolio of your best work. Your portfolio will showcase your skills and style to potential clients or employers. Connect with other photographers, both novice and experienced, as well as potential clients or collaborators. Networking can lead to valuable opportunities and insights. While having top-of-the-line gear isn’t necessary to start, having the right tools for the job can make a difference. Invest wisely in equipment as your skills and career progress. In today’s digital age, having an online presence is crucial. Create a website or portfolio, maintain active social media profiles, and consider using platforms like Instagram, 500px, or Flickr to showcase your work. If you’re aiming to work with clients, develop strong communication and customer service skills. Building positive relationships with clients can lead to repeat business and referrals. Photography is a dynamic field, so be prepared to adapt to new trends, technologies, and client demands. Stay updated on industry developments. Success often doesn’t come overnight. Be prepared for setbacks and rejection, but use them as motivation to keep pushing forward.
Remember that success as a photographer is a journey, and everyone’s path is unique. Keep pushing yourself to improve and your photography career can flourish over time.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Moving to Montreal Canada 3 years ago was the most challenging decision of my life. Leaving behind my studio and all of my clientele was not an easy decision. Despite the struggle, I’ve decided to keep on following my passion and not giving up on photography.
Being present on social media and having a strong website was not enough to attract new customers.
What helped me start all over again and meet new people was attending local events and workshops. Networking can help you learn about your community and meet new people. I do believe that collaborating with local businesses, models, makeup artists, or stylists is great for building your reputation and extending your network.
Encourage satisfied clients to spread the word about your services. Positive reviews and recommendations from locals can go a long way in building your client base.
Be patient and persistent in your efforts, and continuously adapt your strategies based on your experiences and feedback.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

As a photographer there are many rewards that can be fulfilling but in my opinion, self-expression and freedom were the two most important! First the opportunity to express myself and my emotions through my work and then the freedom of exploring my ideas and visions without strict guidelines or limitations.
Ultimately, the act of creating itself can bring a deep sense of personal fulfillment and purpose. The journey of pursuing one’s passion and creative vision can be profoundly satisfying. It is therapeutic!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://saydejabra.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saydejabraphotography/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saydejabra/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sayde-jabra-921ab327/?originalSubdomain=ca