Meet Sarrah Gani | Photographer

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

Hi Sarrah, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I have always wanted to start/own my own business, and recently it became a possibility for our family. I have been photographing for years as a part time job, but wanted to work towards making it a sustainable business so I could have the job I have always wanted, while providing the flexibility my family needs. I have always wanted to make my own schedule and run a business exactly the way I dreamed for my clients!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I enjoy photographing a variety of people (children, families, etc.) but my real passion is photographing women. Women tend to not exist in photographs; by that I mean they are usually the ones taking photos, or are too concerned about their appearance to step in front of a camera.

The experience I provide for my clients is much more than just meeting me for an hour and taking a few photographs. First, we have a consultation where everything from locations to wardrobe are planned. Then, on the day of the photo session, they go to be pampered at a local salon for Hair and Makeup styling (which is all planned for them–they just walk in the door). We spend several hours after creating their portraits, and have a great time together! Several weeks later, they come back to the studio to see their photos printed and matted, and choose the ones they love to take home.

It can be incredibly difficult for some women to be photographed. Some are camera shy, some are harsh critics, and some are struggling with body image. My hope for every client is to feel absolutely amazing when they walk out of the studio. It’s not only about how the photos turn out at the end, but the way she feels during the experience. Every woman should exist in photographs; for yourself, for your family, and for the people who love you.

I used to be one of those women. I hated the way I looked; I could barely find 5 photos of myself from a 10 year span! There is no reason not to exist in photographs; I want all women to feel confident about their photos, and own the best version of who they are right now.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love outside activities! In Lansing, there are plenty of things to do, and a ton of small businesses/restaurants to choose from! I should mention that my family is vegan so that influences our dining choices heavily, but Lansing is really holding their own with plant based choices lately!

I would start with coffee and donuts from Strange Matter Coffee Co. Then, a walk or bike ride on the Lansing River Trail, or in a local park such as Burchfield. We could also go kayaking! Grabbing lunch somewhere local downtown, then heading to small shops in Old Town or other areas, like Everybody Reads. Finishing off the day by buying dinner at a food truck and bringing it somewhere where we could listen to music playing outside. I would also go to Park Lake Creamery, MSU Campus (great for walking and gardens!), the Coffee Barrel, and for something a little more fancy dinner at the English Inn (beautiful grounds and wonderful food!). Our area is not huge, but there is so much to choose from.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Everything I know about starting and maintaining a sustainable photo business I learned from Sue Bryce’s Education program; she is absolutely wonderful at teaching people how to value their time and worth, and also provides education for every single part of business. It wouldn’t have been possible without such a great mentor! My husband was incredibly supportive of me resigning from my teaching career to start this business as we grow our family; his willingness to give this a try is the reason it has been able to grow.

Website: www.sarrahphotography.com

Instagram: @sarrahphotographymi

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarrah.photography.mi