Today we’d like to introduce you to Shireen Shahidi.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
For as long as I can remember I have had a passion for photography. My aunt Sandy is a graphic designer who taught me everything I know about taking advantage of the perfect moment to take a photo. Sandy was the person who bought my first camera. It was a basic point and shoot camera that wasn’t very good quality but as a nine-year-old, I didn’t care. I wanted to use my camera every chance that I got, eventually using it until it broke. After waiting for six years, I was finally able to save up enough money to invest in a Canon Rebel T3i, my very first DSLR camera.
As I’ve grown up, I’ve realized that photography embraces something so special because it captures a single moment in time that can never be replicated. Growing up, I would have photoshoots with my friends all the time. I would do anything to be behind the camera. Now, I take senior photos, as well as shoot with my friend Hannah Huante who has a blog called howhanseesit.com.
Additionally, an essential part of my photography experience has involved traveling. Luckily, I have been fortunate enough to be able to travel to many places around the world and through that, I’ve seen some spectacular places. A new perspective always helps in getting “the shot.”
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Thankfully, my experience with photography has been very smooth so far. It’s been a little over a year where I’ve taken my photography professionally, and through this, I hope to grow my presence on social platforms such as Instagram. With more experience, I’m also hoping to work alongside other photographers in San Diego.
My advice to young women would be that if they have a passion for something, they should follow through with it. Being creative is so important for the mind and being able to show my creative eye through photography is such a special feeling that only motivates me more to continue learning about photography. Being able to do this, as something I love rather than something I do as a business or for other people is the reason I think it’s been working for me.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Shireen Niki Photography – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I’m a photographer that currently works with all genres. Through different opportunities, I’m hoping that I’m able to find my niche. I would say that I have a keen eye for symmetry and that’s what sets me apart from others. When looking at a photo, I don’t just snap the photo. I look for what can set the photo apart. Being able to glorify a simple scene into a gorgeous moment in time is extremely important to me.
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
Being able to network and essentially “sell yourself” is very important. I believe that social media is extremely useful in trying to grow a following or getting your name out there. I would say being forward and not afraid is very important in opening up doors for yourself. I recently reached out to a photographer that I admire tremendously, and he reassured me that I was on the right track. Being able to hear that from someone I aspire to be like was extremely motivating. Having a genuine nature helps in staying focused on your passions and doing things for yourself and ultimately making yourself happy.
Pricing:
- 30 Edited photos, 1 location $150
- 30 Edited photos, 2 Locations $200
- 50 Edited photos, 3 Locations $250
Contact Info:
- Email: contact@shireenshahidi.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shireennikiphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shireen-Niki-Photography-1844257172292150/
Image Credit:
@shireennikiphotography
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