We had the good fortune of connecting with Sarah Selvig and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Sarah, what role has risk played in your life or career?
To me, being risky is what frees you from the mold. Not everyone is made to break free from the mold, but those who are, learn to take risks. I think people often confuse risk with danger. In some cases this is true, but usually it’s not. My mom always told me, “If you’re going to do something stupid, do it smart.” What she meant is that doing something unconventional can be a good thing, as long as you are deliberate and well-intentioned in your actions. In my eyes, we owe it to ourselves to create a life of purpose, passion, and authenticity. That’s why I started my own photography business in high school. Considering I knew nothing about business models, marketing tactics, or taxes, some people might say I was being dicey in my undertaking. But purpose fueled my actions, and that made all the difference. Taking the time to actively pursue a life of passion and authenticity is the best decision I’ve ever made. The business smarts followed. Being a risky person means having the confidence in yourself to move forward, even when you don’t yet have all of the answers. Our constant need for control can be exhausting. Ultimately, taking risks enables us to let go of the control that we so desperately seek. Be risky, Be bold. One crazy, stupid idea might be the best decision you’ll ever make.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Both in photography and in life, I am a seeker of light and a lover of adventures. I have a passion for capturing authentic + candid moments. My clients know that my free-spirited, people-oriented personality gives every shoot comfort and excitement. I was made to love people… I was made to be creative… I was made to make pictures. I was made for this job. I’ve always desired deep growth in anything I do. I don’t need to be the best there’s ever been; I simply want to achieve my maximum potential. The most challenging part of getting Humble Hands Artistry to where it is today had nothing to do with mastering photography or business education. In order to inch closer to my true potential, I needed to reject the fears that were trying to lead me astray. When it comes to owning a small business, sometimes your largest competitor is your own internal dialogue, which tries to tell you that you’re not talented enough or won’t make enough money or won’t ever be as good as everyone else. Improving my business meant becoming more confident in my creative energy and direction. Being a professional photographer is not an easy job. It requires self-discipline, respect for and patience with others, and a desire to experience the world and its people in a unique way. My mission with Humble Hands Artistry is “Seek light, Be light,” which reflects my goal of capturing peoples’ beauty and giving them a sense of overwhelming love for who they are. I wake up every day to promote joy, authenticity, and light, and that’s what Humble Hands Artistry is all about.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta has been my home for about a year now. I am not much of a city girl myself, so the transition into the hustle and bustle has been a bit shaky. I seek out places that feel less “big” and more personal. I find myself gravitating to local coffee shops such as Muchacho, Buteco, and East Pole. Local parks are a must to get away from the busy roads! Piedmont park, Grant park, and Historic fourth ward. While you are around the parks you have to rent some roller blades and hit the belt line on a sunny day. The high museum is also a must. They offer free admission every once in awhile, but the art is worth paying to see!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my husband. He is a mastermind in his craft of film production and video editing. In his busyness, he finds the time and excitement to tag along on my shoots to assist me, encourage my creative ideas, and share his business knowledge. Without him, I wouldn’t be half of the photographer I am today!
Website: www.humblehandsartistry.com
Instagram: humblehandsartistry
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/humblehandsartistry/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrelDoPC2D2PeNyktjNSTqw