Today we’d like to introduce you to Sunny Rajabi.
Hi Sunny, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve loved photography for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I always had a camera in my hand capturing family moments and the little details that caught my eye. It was something I did purely for joy, never imagining that it would someday become such a meaningful part of my life.
After earning my degree in Business Management and Human Resources from Bradley University in 2010, I began my professional career in Human Resources and spent over a decade in leadership roles across a variety of industries. While I was advancing in my corporate career, photography remained my creative outlet and personal passion.
In 2013, I enrolled in a local technical school to strengthen my photography skills and learn more about lighting. I started photographing families and children as a side hustle, and in 2021, I officially launched Sunburst Photography. I was still working full time in HR, but I poured my heart into building my brand, creating my website, and growing my business in my free time.
Then in February 2024, I was laid off from my HR role. It turned out to be the unexpected push I needed to fully pursue my passion. With the support of my husband, Grant, I took a leap of faith and decided to commit to Sunburst Photography full time. Since then, I’ve focused on brand photography, professional headshots, and event photography and videography—services that align closely with my passion and long-term business goals.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
At times, it’s scary being a full-time entrepreneur–but so rewarding! I decide what direction I want to take my business, and I’m the one to figure out strategies on growing it. It has been equal parts challenging and fulfilling.
An early obstacle I needed to overcome was learning to step out of my comfort zone to network with other business owners. I started attending events, joined local networking groups, and even became an ambassador for my local chamber of commerce. What once felt daunting now feels energizing. I genuinely enjoy walking into a room, meeting new people, and learning about them.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Now that I specialize in business branding, headshots, and event photography and videography, I’ve been able to really hone my craft and bring more intention and creativity to the way I support each brand I work with. Adding videography to my services has also given me new ways to serve my clients.
I serve as the Photo Editor for Cypress Lifestyle Magazine, and love meeting people and seeing my work featured in the magazine and in other industry publications. I’ve also won Living Magazine’s Best Photographer in Cy-Fair award the last two years in a row, which means so much to me.
I work closely with business owners and professionals to enhance their image, build loyalty, and drive growth through authentic and intentional imagery. I’ve built a reputation for making my photoshoots fun and easygoing, which helps my clients feel at ease and allows me to capture the best possible images for them. I know how uncomfortable it can feel in front of the camera, so I do my best to help my clients feel relaxed and give them direction. It’s incredibly rewarding to know the photos and videos we created together are helping them move their business forward.
For anyone who is ready to elevate their brand or has an upcoming event, I’d love to connect! Visit my website at www.sunburstphotography.com to see how we can work together.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I think it’s so important to never stop learning and to always keep growing; to be curious and to be teachable. I regularly invest in education and workshops so I can continue to stay inspired, expand my skills, and gain new perspectives as a photographer and a business owner.
I also think it’s important to surround yourself with like-minded people who mirror your drive and support your goals. The support, encouragement, and insight I’ve received from other entrepreneurs has made a big difference in my business. Having people to exchange ideas with, collaborate with, or just cheer each other on has been invaluable.
Most importantly, I believe in community over competition. I have built strong relationships and made true friendships with other photographers and entrepreneurs. We share ideas and work with each other when the opportunity arises.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sunburstphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellosunburstphoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hellosunburstphoto
