Check Out Savannah Simerly’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Savannah Simerly.

Hi Savannah , thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I began my journey in photography when I was an early teen. My dad gave me a film camera and I shot whatever came into my view. Mostly flowers, animals, and insects. I taught myself all the basics of photography and how to use the settings on a camera and most importantly lighting. On my 18th birthday I was gifted my first DSLR (digital) camera and it was on from there. I used my siblings and friends as models in the beginning and got into a more creative rhythm. I’ve always had an active imagination. I dropped photography for a time because I was unsure on how to make it a career or if it was even lucrative. I picked it back up in 2019 when I came across a photographer on Instagram and was completely inspired! That year I flew to Florida (my first flight ever!) to shoot my very first wedding. After that the ball kept rolling. Now I do what I love and never feel like I actually work.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not. Smooth. At. All! If you think it’s going to be smooth sailing then you’re doing it wrong. I struggled to find my neiche. I struggled to get clients. I struggled to make it a full time career. But I just kept shooting. I learned the genres of photography that I disliked and learned the ones I really enjoyed. I took advise from other long time photographers and applied them to my own business. It can be discouraging and imposter syndrome creeps up in us all. But you have to try to not compare yourself to others work because you are not them. Just keep going. Just keep growing.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I offer a wide array of packages that include couples, engagements, families, maternity, and even boudoir. I feel my work sets me apart from others because I make these sessions fun! I give prompts that induce natural laughter and very candid moments. Sometimes I even have fun activities for my clients. I feel I am personable and I deliver galleries in a timely manner which keeps my clients coming back year after year. My true passion lies in creative portraiture. With creative portraits I can really let my imagination loose and create art that I’m truly proud of. I’ve had the amazing opportunity to work with very talented well-known models in North Carolina as well as working alongside other incredible photographers. My art would not be what it is without them. I’m so proud of how far Ive come and how my work has progressed from tiny insects to powerful images that invoke emotion.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
If I could give any advice, it would be to try everything, Then find what you love most and just keep shooting. Keep learning through experience and you will keep leveling up. Take advice. Take classes. Join content days that are hosted by other photographers. Never stop learning. If you want it you’ll have to work for it. Nothing comes easy. And the things we work the hardest for are the most rewarding.

Contact Info:

• Website: roseofashes.com
• Instagram: @roseofashesphotography
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/roseofashesphotography