We had the good fortune of connecting with Janessa Sanderson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Janessa, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I was so fortunate to be raised by two loving and incredibly artistic parents. There was never a shortage of creativity in our house, from watercolor painting to creating stained glass windows. My parents worked in a variety of mediums throughout my life but photography ironically was not one of them! That seems to my own niche of creativity. It has become such a huge passion for me. I’m forever grateful for this career.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I began photography shortly after graduating from College. I was a single mother when I went to school for Business Marketing. After graduating I quickly felt the challenge of balancing single motherhood and working in an office. I had a camera, a basic understanding of photoshop and an amazing network of supportive photographer friends, After all, I had my adorable toddler to chase and practice on and a dream to be with her as much as humanly possible. 12 years has passed since then! Now she’s 15 and I have a 6 year old son as well. I’m a full time photographer, working with the most incredibly wonderful people all over the continent and living my dream.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1 – Snorkeling with DOWNTOSCUBA in Fort lauderdale! Then head for a walk on Pompano Pier, and dine at either Oceanic or Beach House.

Day2- Safari Tour at Animal Edventure in Boynton and a Picnic on the Beach.

Day 3- Miami zoo

Day 4- Resort Day Pass at The Pelican Grand- Fort Lauderdale! Sit on the Beach, enjoy the pool, float in the lazy river, followed by dinner and Drinks. Yes please.

Day 5- Book a painting tea party in the park with Stellar Live Painting and dinner at House on the River.

Day 6- Ride the water taxi to Las Olas Blvd and go shopping and dinner at Voodoo Bayou.

Day 7- Dine at La Mexicana Taco Bar and wander the beautiful and unique art garden that surrounds it.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My incredible daughter Lily AKA “Lee’. She is my inspiration, my muse and the real reason I began photography.

Website: https://goldenpalmphotography.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenpalmphoto

Facebook: https://facebook.com/goldenpalmphoto

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.