Today we’d like to introduce you to Keda Sharber.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Keda. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
The biggest storm of my life happened in 2008. It was a year that flipped my world upside down. Although words were not enough to express what I was feeling, the emotions were too intense to keep bottled up. So I decided to embark on a 365 day self portrait photography project that allowed me to dissect each pang of hurt, pain & fear, and transform it into art. As I began to evolve through the situation, my photography began to evolve, as well. Friends and family began to notice the work I was doing and wanted something similar for themselves. Those quiet little inquiries are what opened the door to me becoming a professional photographer.
Fast forward 10 years, and you’ll still find me shooting and loving it. Although I take portraits of any kind, I have a special place in my heart for dancers, especially ballerinas of color. Similar to photography, the emotion that dancers can convey without the use of spoken or written language is so profound. And the intersection where dance and photography meet is my happy place.
Has it been a smooth road?
The road I’m on, though filled with amazing people, wonderful experiences, and beautiful imagery isn’t always smooth. There are times when I question myself and my abilities. There are times, I wonder whether I should trade in fulfillment and creative freedom for the security of a corporate job. But in those times of uncertainty and insecurity, there is a still, small voice that tells me to keep pushing. I am reminded that I’m not just taking pictures. I am freezing moments of my clients’ beautiful lives and preserving them so they can be treasured for generations to come. I am capturing a bit of the light inside my subjects and sharing it with all who view the art that we create together. For me, it’s not about the click of a shutter. It’s about showing my clients the truth about themselves – that no matter their circumstance, there is beauty and wonder inside of them. The work that I do is important to me. It not only affords me freedom of creative expression, but also the freedom to be present for my family in the ways that matter most to us.
If I could share a bit of advice with my younger self as I was just beginning this journey, I would say that every dream, every idea that comes to you is given for a reason. Write them down, devise a plan and get to work! When the doubts and fears begin to creep in, quiet your mind, focus on the goal… and get to work. I’ll say it one more time, GET TO WORK! Many beautiful ideas die a dusty death because we don’t put any actions behind our thoughts. We don’t have to wait until our situations are perfect before we begin to move. Winston Churchill said that “perfection is the enemy of progress.” Sometimes, a single step is victory enough for the day.
We’d love to hear more about Images by Papillon.
I am a portrait photographer & filmmaker who loves to work with dancers, artists, entrepreneurs and small businesses. I am proud to build lasting relationships with my clients, which often allows me to document various stages of their personal lives and the evolution of their careers. The difference that I bring to my clients is the fact that I am a storyteller at heart. If a picture is worth a thousand words, I strive to weave the beautiful tale of my clients’ lives with every click of the shutter.
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
When it comes to finding a mentor or networking, you’ve got to make some noise! Don’t be afraid to put your work out there and let people know what you’re up to. I am an extreme introvert, though I do my best to mask it. Last year, I challenged myself to leap out of my comfort zone and connect with people who shared common values or who were doing great things in their businesses. Though it was uncomfortable, being bold enough to take the first step in making meaningful connections have been the best thing that has happened to my business. For those who find it difficult to reach out, I would say focus on making one connection at a time. In a room full of people where I know little to no one, I seek out one face (preferably one that looks just about as uncomfortable as I feel) and begin there. Even if the only thing you have in common is the fact that you’re both a little nervous, build on that. After that, focus on the mutual benefit you and your new connection can offer each other. Once the connection is established, be sure to reach out every now and then – not just when you need something. Business relationships must be nurtured in order to remain strong and beneficial for both parties.
Pricing:
- Portrait sessions begin at $400
- Film projects begin at $750
Contact Info:
- Website: www.imagesbypapillon.com
- Phone: 713-965-3885
- Email: keda@imagesbypapillon.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/imagesbypapillon
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/imagesbypapillon
Image Credit:
C’na Roberts
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