More Resources: The Family Posing Course

This student spotlight is a mom of 2 little ones and can be found editing photos while they are napping. Can anyone relate?! Not only is she a wife, mom, and photography business owner, but she loves sewing too! Creatives tend to have more than one creative hobby.

Help me in celebrating our student spotlight: Sarah Vanderveer of Sarah Leana Photography. It's a privilege for me to showcase some of my students. And this one is a special one! She's enrolled in The Family Posing Course and I know her story will encourage you.

Tell me a little about your photography business!

I'm a Motherhood and Family photographer with a specialty in breastfeeding portraits. I started out with an interest in shooting weddings, but when I became a mom I found my true calling working with other mamas and supporting them on their motherhood journey. I believe in body positivity, self care, and community as a person and as a business! Nothing gives me more joy than helping another mama step into her confidence so that she can have photos with here babies to cherish forever.

I've been shooting for over 6 years, but my business is just about to turn 1! It's been a wild and amazing year.

What started your photography journey?

My photography journey began when I took my older sister's senior photos on my mom's iPhone! I already knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur, so when I fell in love with photography, making it my career was an easy choice.

What is your favorite thing about running a photography business?

I love the freedom that comes with working for myself, and the art that I create — but most importantly I love the positive impact that I can make in my client's lives by serving them well and making them feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.

What is something you’ve achieved that you’re proud of?

Over the last year (my first year in business) I've worked so hard to make this hobby of mine into a profitable business. I'm really proud of myself for investing in my education and joining Rebecca Rice's mastermind, learning how to use Facebook ads, and seeing massive success in my mini sessions and motherhood photography! I'm also proud of myself for sticking with it and pushing myself to make this all happen while raising a toddler and a baby.

If you could tell your past self one thing, what would it be?

I would tell my past self that done is better than perfect. I waited so many year to really start my business because it didn't feel like the right time, and that I wouldn't get everything right. I'm learning that there is no perfect time to start, and that it's ok to make mistakes, pick myself up, and get back at it!

Where can we find Sarah Vanderveer of Sarah Leana Photography?

+ Website
+ Instagram
+ Facebook

Don’t forget to check out other recent Student Spotlights!