Meet Sabrina Thomas | Wedding photographer

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

Hi Sabrina, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
When I was in high school, all I did was take photos. But it never crossed my mind to become a professional photographer. I’m the first in my family to get a high school and college education which encouraged me to pursue something “that would make a lot of money.” I decided I wanted to do something in the medical fields. Fast forward several years, I graduated with my biology degree but unfortunately we were in no position to move as my husband was pursuing his masters. While working full time as a vet assistant, I started taking photos of animals needing homes. The higher quality images worked! Then, I started having friends contacting me for photos, then family… then random strangers. I loved it so much and felt such energy to keep going, that I decided to start my own business and haven’t looked back!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Nothing in my life has been easy. We all have a story. But I definitely think going through the many hardships is what has given me this undeniable drive to get where I am today. I truly do find windows to climb through so I can achieve the goals placed in front of me.

When I started into the wedding industry, I was constantly reminded of the beautiful and fragile relationship I have with my husband. It inspires me to shoot the way I do. I’m drawn into the small candid details of love that others may not see. While candid storytelling is becoming more popular these days, I do believe that my attention to detail and unique moments is what sets my work apart… along with the experience. I’m definitely a lover and supporter by nature and also a bit of an empath so I try to make sure my clients feel that during their wedding day. Empaths feel very deeply and that magnifies as I’m creating your special day and walking through those emotional moments. You’ll likely catch me crying during your father daughter dance and that’s a good thing because if I’m treasuring that moment, I know you are too and that’s how I’m going to capture it. As authentically you as possible!

Becoming a business owner has been the most complicating and freeing experience yet. On one hand, learning the legal and technical side of how things work has been confusing and eye opening. On the other, I have my life back. I have time to see people. I have time to get my mental and physical health back to the way it was pre-17 hour shifts . I’m happier and ready for more adventure. I’ve learned a lot through peers, mentorship’s and of course LOTS of educational resources. I did not go to school for this but there are a ton of other creatives who create courses for you to take that is away more valuable and niched down to what you are really interested in.

I’ve learned that not everyone will choose you. You may go a long time before finding your people. But push through, create what you love and you’ll soon be surrounded by the best people you could ever imagine. I’ve had so many clients turn into genuine friends and it’s honestly the best feeling. I don’t want to be just your photographer. I want to be your friend, your hype girl, the one who grabs a drink with you at your after party and wants to do a girls night! Experience is everything.

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?
This is such a thought question because I live in an extremely small town!

So I would have to say I’d take them to Atlanta!

Friday evening- Dinner at an Italian restaurant called A Mano. Then I’d take them downtown to a few bars for some dancing and drinks.

Saturday- grab some brunch. stroll through Piedmont Park and hit Ponce City Market. Maybe go through any of the open exhibits, like Monat if it’s in town or the aquarium.

Then grab an early dinner!

Sunday- Head to Atlanta Botanical for a while and lunch!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
So many people have inspired me in this journey. The first would be my college professors. While I’m not utilizing my current degree, they taught me a lot about fighting fiercely for what you love. I had one specific professor who said , “If you can’t get through a door, find a window to climb through.” It’s advice that I will always carry with me. Secondly, my husband. It sounds so cliche but i honestly would not even be a photographer if he hadn’t pushed me so hard to pursue it. He has helped me a lot on the business side!

And most importantly, the other creatives in this industry. My mentor and old high school friend, Emily Mathewson seriously helped me get on my feet, my web designer Leslie Vega for bringing my brand to life and Anni Graham for having educational resources that paved the way to achieving my own style and sense of belonging.

Website: Sabrinathomasphotography.com

Instagram: Sabrinakthomasphotography