Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Messner.
Hi Sarah, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always had a passion for photography. In high school, my dad bought me my very first camera, and that’s really where it all began. I went on to take photography classes in college, but it wasn’t until years later, after moving to South Carolina, that I decided to turn my passion into a business. What started as a dream has grown into something more than I ever could have imagined. Every family, milestone, and connection I’ve been able to capture has made this journey incredibly rewarding, and I’m so grateful that I get to do what I love every day.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The first few years were the hardest as I learned how to run a business while also growing as a photographer. I wasn’t just learning how to take photos and edit them—I was figuring out all of the behind-the-scenes work that comes with owning a business, from marketing and client communication to bookkeeping and everything in between. Building a loyal client base and staying consistent and relevant on social media were probably the biggest challenges. Looking back now, six years later, every bit of that hard work and every obstacle has been worth it. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how far my business has come.
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’m a motherhood and family photographer, specializing in capturing the beautiful, messy, fleeting seasons of life—from baby announcements and maternity sessions to newborns, growing families, milestones, and everything in between. My photography style is true-to-color, timeless, and natural. I want my images to feel beautiful years from now, rather than tied to a particular trend or editing style.
One of the things I’m most passionate about right now is my Personality Portraits. These are simple black-and-white portraits of children that are all about letting them be completely themselves. I give them a few minutes in front of my camera to talk, move, laugh, make silly faces, and just show me who they are. There’s something so special about freezing that little personality in time because childhood changes so quickly. The response from parents has been incredible, and watching this part of my business grow has been one of the most rewarding things for me. I truly hope to see Personality Portraits become an even bigger part of what I offer.
I’m probably best known for motherhood and family photography, especially documenting the milestones that make up a family’s story. I love that I get to meet families during one season of their lives and then continue photographing them as their families grow. I do dabble in weddings as well, but my heart really lies in families, motherhood, and childhood.
One of my proudest accomplishments was being named the 2026 Kaboom Award winner for Best Photographer, presented by Kidding Around Columbia. Being recognized by my local community for something I’ve poured so much of myself into was incredibly meaningful.
As far as what sets me apart, I think a huge part of it is simply who I am. I’m outgoing, personable, and genuinely love people. I can talk to a brick wall, and I absolutely love meeting new families, networking, and building relationships. I don’t want my clients to feel like they’re just another booking on my calendar. I want them to feel known, comfortable, and cared for. I hope people choose me not only because they love my work, but because they love the experience of working with me and, ultimately, the person behind the camera.
Photography has given me the opportunity to turn something I love into a career, but the relationships I’ve built along the way are what make it so special. I get to preserve memories for families during some of the most meaningful seasons of their lives, and I don’t take that responsibility lightly.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I wouldn’t necessarily describe myself as a big risk taker. I’m actually pretty intentional and calculated when it comes to making decisions, especially when it comes to my business. I tend to think things through, weigh the pros and cons, and make sure a decision feels right before jumping in.
One of the bigger risks I’ve taken in my business has actually been learning to narrow my focus. As a photographer, it can be tempting to offer everything—families, weddings, branding, seniors, newborns, events, products, and so much more—because you don’t want to turn away an opportunity. But I’ve learned that knowing what I’m truly best at is more valuable than trying to be everything to everyone.
I’ve started becoming much more intentional about focusing on the areas I love most and the areas where I feel I can provide the best experience and the strongest work. Instead of trying to offer every type of photography, I’m focusing on my core specialties and allowing those to define my brand.
For me, that has been a risk because there is always that little voice wondering, “What if I’m turning someone away?” But I’ve learned that sometimes the bigger risk is actually not trusting yourself enough to specialize.
I think that’s probably how I approach risk overall. I may not be someone who takes huge, spontaneous leaps, but I’m willing to step outside of my comfort zone when I believe in the direction I’m going. I’d rather take thoughtful, intentional risks that align with my strengths and my long-term vision than take a risk simply for the sake of taking one.
Pricing:
- 30 minute session $250
- 1 hour session $300
- 2 hour session $500
- Personality Portraits starting at $275
- Weddings starting at $2,000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bluebellephotosc.com
- Instagram: @blue_bellephotography
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/BB.SouthCarolinaPhotographer
