Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha.
Hi Samantha , thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I got my start in modeling when I was pretty young, and that experience sparked a real love for creativity and being part of a visual story. That led me to modeling and acting across the Carolinas. Eventually, I moved to Los Angeles (I lived there for about 8 years), where I found myself craving a deeper way to express my artistic vision beyond being in front of the camera.
I ended up going back to school at UCLA (while working full time!) and got my degrees in photography and graphic design. That was a turning point for me—photography felt like such a natural next step. It gave me the chance to stay connected to the industry I love, but from behind the lens this time.
After graduating, my family and I moved back to the east coast (we did this during the peak of the COVID pandemic!) Now, I run a small, female-owned photography business where I work with local models, actors, and small businesses. It’s been such a rewarding journey, and I’m excited to keep growing, creating, and connecting with more amazing people along the way. I’m so excited about the path ahead.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely has not always been smooth—but I think that’s part of what makes the journey meaningful. Starting a creative business from the ground up came with its fair share of challenges. Getting my business off the ground was tough in the beginning. I knew I wanted to build something creative and meaningful, but figuring out how to actually find clients and get my name out there was a big challenge.
Little by little, things started to click. I connected with some great talent agencies across the Southeast, and word of mouth began to spread. That’s really when I started to feel some traction. It’s taken time (and a lot of patience), but each step has brought me closer to where I want to be, and continue to grow.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a photographer focused on helping models, actors, and small businesses bring their vision to life through clean, natural, and story-driven images. I work primarily on location here in Greenville S.C., though I will travel across S.C., N.C. and G.A. for the right project. I do a mix of model test shoots, actor headshots, digitals, lifestyle portraits, and branding sessions—and I absolutely love collaborating with people who are just getting started or going through a refresh.
What I’m probably best known for is creating a really laid-back, supportive experience. I guide my clients every step of the way—no awkward guessing or stiff posing—and I keep the editing minimal and natural so people still look like themselves (just a polished version).
What sets me apart is how personal I make everything. I take time to get to know my clients and tailor each shoot to their goals, whether that’s guiding them to talk to an agency for representation, leveling up their brand, or just feeling confident on camera. Overall, I’m proud to deliver beautiful, purposeful images while repping authenticity, creativity, and personal connection.
What were you like growing up?
I was definitely a shy, quiet kid—total tomboy vibes. I’d always hang back a little until I really got to know someone, and then I’d come out of my shell. I was super curious and constantly daydreaming. I’ve always had this pull toward bigger things and a need to create—whether it was sketching, writing little stories, or playing around with a camera. I didn’t always know what I wanted to do, but I knew it had to be something creative. I think that part of me has stayed the same.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.SamanthaSharpePhotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthasharpephotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SamanthaSharpePhotography
