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

Hi Sarah, what role has risk played in your life or career?
My whole life has been about taking risks. When I started getting into photography and videography, I realized the best shots only happen when you take that extra step. Whether it was reaching out to complete strangers on social media to link up with me, what is the worst that can happen? They just don’t message you back? So I figured why not. Or waking up at 2 am to drive 6 hours to shoot sunrise for an absolutely breathtaking view and hopefully resulting in the perfect shot. I always try to go the extra mile for what I think could be the money shot or open a door for an exciting opportunity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I would like to think my work is different from others. The whole idea about my work is to be unique and fun. I think that’s how I really grew a following was to just be myself and have fun with it. So whether I needed to be doing a handstand in my photo to show off my goofy side, or to post a video of me frantically running around with a tripod to get the “the perfect shot” I would do it. A lot of people don’t realize how much work was put into a photo or a “simple” video edit. I would say it’s the farthest thing from easy. During most of my trips I am traveling solo so getting the right angle by myself can be tricky. That’s the part where I need to be creative and make my idea a reality. Once I capture the shot then the editing process begins which is multiple hours of work. I can promise you going the extra mile is always rewarding, although it might not be at first, it will show in the long run. Something I would want people to know about me is that I live in the moment. I think everyone should make the most of their lives, being that we only have one shot in this life, so don’t spend it regretting things you wish you would have done.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If one of my friends is coming to visit and has never been to Colorado before I would want everything they do and see to be absolutely something that they can’t experience in their own state. So for starters we are going to the Red Rock Amphitheater for a great atmosphere and an unforgettable night of music. One of the most unique things to do is check out the International Church of Cannabis. The vibrant colors and designs in the chapel are absolutely beautiful. My two favorite places to get drinks are Bierstadt Lagerhaus, which is full of fun, giant sized yard games and pinball machines, and Deep Roots, which has a ton of fun games as well. I also recommend taking a walk from Marker Street to Dairy Block for the coolest alley filled with awesome graffiti art. Lastly, can you say you visited Colorado if you didn’t go on a hike? I would recommend checking out The First and Second Flatiron. It’s a bit challenging but the hike is worth it once you get to the top.

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?
When I was back in college I was trying to get my foot into any photography/social media door possible and I was lucky enough to land an internship at the famous Instagram company “Beautiful Destinations.” Now let me start out by saying, I wasn’t doing any sort of photography or filming. The job that was open was a Data Analyst. I saw an opportunity to get my foot in the door and I was happy to take it. Not only did it give me a ton of experience but the connections I made with everyone that worked there was more than I could imagine. They treated me so well, and my boss at the time, Sarah, allowed me to schedule private meetings with anyone at the company to be able to ask them any questions I wanted to and get an idea of how they edit. It gave me such inspiration and determination to keep creating.

Website: https://quartoproductions.com

Instagram: @sahquart

Other: TikTok @Sahquart

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado 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.