Check out Sammy Clark’s Artwork

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sammy Clark.

Sammy, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I am the owner and photographer at Sammy Clark Photography. I discovered my passion for photography in high school when I was given my first point-and-shoot camera. I took my camera with me everywhere and took photos of almost everything. Fairly soon after, I received my first DSLR camera as a gift. I took a few beginner photography classes, but I learned the majority of my photography skills through experimentation and practice. When I first started out in my photography journey, I enjoyed taking landscape and wildlife photos. You could often find me walking around the Riparian Preserve (located in Gilbert, AZ) looking for all of the beautiful birds. I even saw Pelicans there one year! My photography quickly changed after one day during my senior year in high school. I had scheduled a photoshoot to take photos of one of my good friends from school. During this photoshoot I found my love for portrait photography. My photography vision actually completely shifted as well. Instead of wanting to take photos of beautiful scenery, I want to pose people in front of the beautiful scenery!

After many hours of practice and photoshoot after photoshoot, I decided to officially start my photography business. It was my freshman year of college and I was 18 at the time. I knew nothing about owning my own business, but I was so excited to pursue my love of photography! I did a lot of research about starting a business, such as obtaining business licenses and paying taxes. I also talked with other local business owners about creating a business. I am so thankful for every single person to helped me start my business, especially my parents! I love that I still continue to learn and grow in my photography business. I have recently expanded my business to also provide product photography. I have always enjoyed being creative, and I love that my photography allows me to share my creativity with others!

We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I capture senior, family, engagement, maternity, and product photos. I would describe my style as bright, happy and colorful. I love to capture and edit my photos so they are very true to life. Photo editing trends come and go, so I keep my style classic and very true to real life so the photos will never go out of style!
I am so honored that I get to work with so many amazing families. I have had the privilege of photographing family’s year after year. I love getting to watch the kids I photograph grow up over the years. It is crazy to see how fast they grow up! Senior portraits have an extra special place in my heart. I was a senior not too long ago, so I really relate to seniors. Senior year is jam packed with exciting events and wonderful memories. I know how exciting it is to plan your future and see everything coming together. I feel so honored that I get to be part of their busy year!

I really love being a portrait photographer. I believe it is so important to have photos to remember the important moments and people in your life. After my grandmother passed away, I found this quote and I really love it:

“If you don’t think photos are important, wait until they are all you have left.”
– Anonymous

I love looking back at all of the photos I took of her. The photos help me to remember all of the wonderful memories that I have with her. Pictures really do last a lifetime.

About a year ago I dipped my toes into product photography and instantly fell in love! I really enjoy taking flatlay photos (photos that are taken from straight above). I enjoy styling the entire scene and seeing it all come together in the camera. Product photography is very different from portrait photography, so it took a lot of trial and error. One of my favorite things is to take random items and see how I can use them in my photography. It is crazy to see what different things I can use to make a background in my photos. It’s all about being creative!

We often hear from artists that being an artist can be lonely. Any advice for those looking to connect with other artists?
The best way to meet other local artists is on social media. I have met so many amazing local vendors and photographers on different Facebook groups. These groups are great to collaborate with other artists as well as learn about any styled shoots or events that are happening. Another great way to meet others is to simply send them a message. Instagram is a great way to see others’ work and chat with them through direct messages. Social media is definitely the key!

Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
My website: www.sammyclarkphotography.com
My Instagram: www.instagram.com/sammyclarkphotography

Contact Info:

• Address: Gilbert, AZ
• Website: www.sammyclarkphotography.com
• Email: sammyclarkphotography@gmail.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/sammyclarkphotography
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/sammyclarkphotography

Image Credit:
Sammy Clark Photography
Jen Jinkens Photography – personal photo

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