Meet Trailblazer Pam Saracinno

Today we’d like to introduce you to Pam Saracinno.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Pam. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have been in the photography business for 12 years. I just recently moved to Tucson from New Orleans, LA. I do a lot of model sessions and specialize in Fine Art Portraits.

I love my craft and wouldn’t choose any other career. This was what I was meant to do. I love meeting other photographers in the area and sharing techniques on editing and shooting. I’ve met some amazing people on this journey. I have worked in some great cities, like San Antonio TX, Philadelphia PA, New Orleans, LA.
My ultimate goal is to live in the Virgin Islands on the beach. I think it’s the perfect place for a photographer to live. Those sunsets are just phenomenal.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It’s been a bit bumpy for sure. I think every industry is male dominated but that is really changing especially in the photography world. There are so many females that are getting into the business. Photography is a tough business. The critiques that you get from other photographers can be really harsh, but you have to learn not to take it personally. Some of the critiques you get can actually improve your work. Then, there is everyone with a camera thinks they are a photographer. It takes a lot of hard work and determination to really become a great photographer. You have to first have an eye for beauty, then there is a ton of learning your craft. You never stop learning, even after 12 years, I am still learning new things to keep my work fresh. My advice to other woman starting in this business is learning all that you can, lighting, composition, how to shoot in raw, know your camera and settings inside and out. Don’t be afraid to ask for critiques of your work and don’t take those critiques personally, learn from them, never stop learning.

We’d love to hear more about In Studio Photography.
I specialize in Fine Art Portraits and composites. Composites are combining many images into one image and making it realistic. I also do professional editing for other photographers. What I am most proud of is the awards I have received. One of my images was chosen by National Geographic as an editors choice (http://yourshot.nationalgeographic.com/photos/4163848/) and one of my images received the Gold Award from The National Photographic Society in the UK (https://www.thenps.com/august-2014-image-competition-results/). I think what sets me apart from others is my creativity. I see what I can make of an image before I even shoot it.

Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
There are some great Facebook groups out there along with great tutorials on YouTube for new photographers. A few are: Photoshop Editing Tips and Tricks (https://www.facebook.com/groups/Photoshopeditingtips/) great for someone that really wants to learn photoshop and up their game. Glyn Dewis on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9eJ0QMxVANECYICsnM1yzA) Ladies behind the lens (https://www.facebook.com/groups/145604995937678/).

Pricing:

• In Studio sessions $150
• On Location sessions $200 -$250 depending on where you are located.
• Boudoir $500

Contact Info:

• Address: 4701 E. 25th St Tucson, AZ 85711
• Website: https://instudio.myportfolio.com/
• Phone: 520-265-6207
• Email: Instudio520@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instudio520/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Instudio520/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/InStudio520

Image Credit:
Vanna Cole, Erica Sinn, Chezale Rodriguez, Amanda De Leon, Victoria Arellano, Leilan Cahilo

Featured photo of Pam courtesy of Ella Delilah Photography

Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.