Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sydney Linderman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Sydney thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So, let’s imagine that you were advising someone who wanted to start something similar to you and they asked you what you would do differently in the startup-process knowing what you know now. How would you respond?
Apart from technical aspects of my career, if I were starting over today, I’d focus less on perfection and more on the experience—both for my couples and myself. The truth is, photos don’t need to be breathtaking to make you feel something. What matters most is capturing genuine emotion and moments that reflect who the couple truly is. It’s easy to get caught up in trying to create something perfect for social media, but the real value is in documenting the authentic story unfolding before you.
That being said, I’d remind myself to let go of perfection and embrace the day for what it is. Weddings don’t always go as planned, and that’s okay. The most important thing is to keep the couple at the center of attention, focusing on them, their love, and the unique moments that make their day special. Take the photo, even if the settings aren’t perfect! Comparison truly is the thief of joy, and learning to trust my own path and vision is something I’m still working on, but it’s been one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way.
Another huge lesson I’ve learned is not to be afraid to say no. In the beginning, I said yes to everything—more bookings, more opportunities—but I’ve come to realize that saying no to things that don’t align with my values or long-term goals is just as important as saying yes to the right things.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Ya!! Growing up in Oregon, I was totally obsessed with astrophotography—so in turn, my love for photography started when I got my first camera and a 14mm wide lens for Christmas. I could never have predicted that this passion would lead me to where I am today!
Back then, my friends loved doing photoshoots just for fun, so you knowwww I brought out my 14mm lens. I started taking photos of my sister’s friends along with so many senior photos (so many!), and one day I thought, “Wait, I’m kind of good at this!” What first kept me going was the editing—I loved transforming raw images into something that felt like mine. Don’t ask me how I feel about editing now LOL, but it was a huge part of what sparked my passion.
It wasn’t until college that I decided to turn my hobby into a business. I started booking shoots, refining my skills, upgrading my 14mm to a 50mm lens (you know the one XD) and looking back now, it’s crazy to see how far I’ve come from those early days to where I am today.
As a wedding photographer, what matters most to me is creating a genuine connection with my couples. I’m not just here to take pretty pictures. I’m here to help capture their authentic moments, the kind of images that truly reflect who they are, their love, and the uniqueness of their day. My approach is to make sure they feel comfortable and seen. It’s not about perfection—it’s about creating a safe space for you to be yourselves, where I can document real moments, whether they’re big or small.
I’m incredibly proud of the relationships I’ve built with my couples, many of whom I now consider friends. It’s an honor to witness such meaningful moments and to be trusted to document them. When you work with me, you’re not just getting a photographer—you’re getting someone who genuinely cares about telling your story in a way that’s personal, authentic, and true to who you are.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
One of the biggest things I wish I had known earlier in my journey is that it’s okay to ask for help. There are so many photographers and creatives out there who genuinely want to support you, share knowledge, and help you grow. Early on, I didn’t realize how much of a community exists within this industry, and finding the right people to learn from has made such a difference in shaping me into the photographer I am today—shoutout to Reede for always being there for me! One thing I strive to be is a mentor, because I know we all start somewhere, and having someone guide you or offer advice can make all the difference in your growth. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help, because the people who are genuinely invested in your growth are the ones who’ll help you thrive.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being a photographer is the opportunity to truly serve my couples by getting to know them on a personal level. It’s about understanding what matters most to them, what emotions they want to remember, and what moments they cherish most. By really learning about their story, I can document their day in a way that reflects them—not just a pretty picture, but the heart of their celebration.
When I’m able to connect with couples on such a deep level, I’m not just capturing their wedding—I’m capturing their unique journey. It’s a privilege to be invited into their lives and witness their love and joy, and that connection allows me to create meaningful images that go beyond just “a wedding day.”
And in turn, I get to know some truly amazing people. The relationships I build with my couples are incredibly fulfilling, and it’s such a gift to see them through their big day and beyond. It’s not just about the photos—it’s about the experience of truly serving them and being a part of something so special in their lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sydneyraemedia.com
- Instagram: sydneyraemedia
- Facebook: sydneyraemedia
Image Credits
SydneyRaeMedia