Meet Sarah Godfrey | Wedding and Portrait Photographer

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

Hi Sarah, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Despite spending hours crafting overly colorful photo books as a child, I never envisioned myself growing up to become a professional photographer. Going into college, I actually had my heart set on an engineering major. After a year into my studies, I realized that was not the path meant for me. However, photography was not an instant next step or even a consideration of something that could become a full-time job after I graduated. In college I worked on improving my photography skills by doing fun photoshoots for my friends, capturing sunsets and landscape photos, and even working as a photo editor for The Badger Herald (college run newspaper). After I graduated, I decided I could work hard to turn my “hobby” into a small business. My initial interest was wedding photography. I started working underneath other photographers and slowly branched out on my own. Today, I primarily photograph weddings, corporate work (headshots, branding, corporate events), and college graduates.

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.
Initially, most of my clients are drawn to my work due to my true to color, authentic photography style. My photos are not overly edited and look very natural. Beyond capturing my clients in the most authentic way possible, I am passionate about proving a stress free and positive experience, and I think that resonates with a lot of people. Great customer service is so important for every business, but especially photographers. I want to install trust with my clients before the shoot or event even happens, and have them feel at ease throughout the entire process. I love capturing special moments for people, but what keeps me going is my motivation to craft the best experience possible for my clients and personally connect with them.

I have invested in photography courses, conferences, and other educational opportunities, but most of my skills have been self taught/trial and error. As a business owner, I learn and grow each year and continuously try to improve my photography work and processes.

I wouldn’t say owning a photography business (or any business) is easy. There is always something new to learn or something you could be doing better. As an artist, it’s hard not to compare myself to other photographers or doubt myself if clients book someone else. Despite any stresses I have faced, becoming a successful photographer is something I am most proud of and has been extremely rewarding.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If I had a friend visit me we would for sure plan something in the mountains. Since it’s winter, we would most likely ski at one of Summit County resorts. If the conditions were right, I would also take them ice skating on the outdoor Keystone lake rink. Post winter activities, we would find a hot tub or take a trip to one of Colorado’s hot springs (my favorites are Iron Mountain and Strawberry hot springs). In Denver, I would take my friend out to brunch and also explore a few of the city activities.

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 mom has been my #1 supporter since starting my business. She has witnessed the evolution of my website, photo quality, and business decisions. She is not a professional photographer herself, but gives great advice and encouragement. Other than my mom, I am so grateful for my industry friends. Owning a photography business is challenging and I love having friends within the industry that I can lean on for support and advice.

Website: https://www.sarahgodfrey.net

Instagram: @sarahgodfreyphoto

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahgodfreyphoto