Fairytale Feature: Sarah Eliza

When we decided to do our first Fairytale Feature, we wanted to feature a woman who represents what we are all about — making your dreams happen, giving back to others, making a difference and pursuing passions. There is no better fit than Sarah Eliza! 

Sarah is a lifestyle photographer in Tulsa, OK. Beyond that, she’s an amazing friend, community advocate, and cat Mom 🙂

Check out our Q&A with her to learn how she got started, what inspires her, and her best tip for becoming a photographer. 

Fairytale Reform: What is your FAVORITE part about photography?

Sarah Eliza: My favorite part about photography is the ability to shape the meaning of an image based off of light, no matter the subject. It almost feels like a super power because once you’re a photographer you can’t help but see light and how it shapes the meaning of your surroundings in everyday life. It’s pretty fascinating.

FR: What inspired you to become a professional photographer in the first place?

SE: “To be honest, I had an ex boyfriend who introduced me to 35mm photography in highschool. (I know, not the coolest answer but the truth haha). I started developing my own prints in the dark room in 10th grade in Robert Wakeleys Photo class at Booker T. Washington. I absolutely fell in love with it. The dark room felt like my little escape from all the chaos that was going on in my life at that time. I was also a huge fan of science so getting to actually develop my own prints was righteous. Wakeley and his class definitely had an big impact on me. 

After highschool, I was a little lost on what it was that I wanted to do so I took some time to figure it out. I had then made some friends at OSU Tech in the Photo Department and realized that is where I was suppose to be. I was too passionate about photography to not be there. I think I was scared to be a creative full time so it took me some time to figure it out; but wow, I am SO happy I took that leap”. 

FR: For those who are interested in becoming photographers, what advice would you give them? 

SE: “Hustle. Hustle. Hustle. Photography is not an easy job. In fact, it’s a lifestyle. It is not a 9-5 job. Photography is so much fun and so rewarding but it’s not all that instagram makes it out to be. There will be times where you have to shoot things that you don’t want to shoot, but we all have to make money right? There will be slow times that cause you to panic (like right now for many freelancers because of the virus) and there will be busy times where you feel like you can’t even catch a breath. I think many forget that you still have to hustle to be a full time photographer – but I promise you the hustle is rewarding and will pay off in the end”.

FR: Favorite quote? (or just one you like…)

SE: “You can measure your worth by your dedication to your path, not by your successes or failures.” – Elizabeth Gilbert, Big Magic. (I also highly recommend anyone creative that might want too pursue a creative career to read this book!! It’s a game changer.)”

FR: Anything else you want to share?

SE: “Photography is the love of my life. If you have any questions or want to know more – please reach out! Even if its just to say, hey – I like your work. I’m a big proponent in reaching out to creatives if you have questions or comments. It’s how we all grow”.

FR: How can people reach you? 

SE: “People can reach me by my email: [email protected]. Thats the best. However, I do have a facebook page: Sarah Eliza Photography and Instagram: sarahhhelizaaa”

2 thoughts on “Fairytale Feature: Sarah Eliza

  1. This is MY DAUGHTER! and YES she is Amazing! I’m one proud momma! Thank you for writing such a glowing piece about her.

    1. Robyn, it’s our pleasure! Such a beautiful person, on the inside and out. We are happy to know her! Thanks for reading 🙂

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