Rising Stars: Meet Shai Dawnn

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shai Dawnn.

Hi Shai Dawnn, 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?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had a love for taking photos. It wasn’t something I ever pursued until after graduating from Virginia State University in 2016 and moving to Georgia for graduate school, I had an impulse and decided to purchase my first Canon camera to begin practicing photography. On my first day out practicing with a friend, ironically enough I met a couple who would become my first clients. For the last six years, I have been developing my craft which has evolved into what today is Shai Dawnn Photography.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Since starting, I have juggled my photography with working full-time and being in graduate school. This has severely limited my free time, but I have found ways to make it work. Finding the time to manage my self-care on top of my work, school, and business priorities continues to be a challenge, but it’s a challenge that I welcome because I love what I do. Learning photography has been a mix of being self-taught, shadowing and learning from others, but I strive to be a constant learner in all aspects to continue to develop my craft.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in portraits and wedding photography. I absolutely love capturing the moments that become memories for my clients, whether that be a couple’s union in love or clients who want to capture their birthdays, graduations, and/or family portraits.

I am most proud of my growth over the years and that I decided to pursue something that means so much to me. Photography allows for the preservation of moments in time through photos, and I’m thankful that I can use my camera as a means of expressing myself and capturing the beauty I see around me. What defines Shai Dawnn Photography is my focus on prioritizing my clients to ensure that their vision is achieved and they receive portraits that they will cherish for years to come.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I am most thankful to my family and friends who have been supportive of me since I started this journey, some of which who have allowed me to capture their moments. To my fellow creatives who have poured into and mentored me, I am thankful for your time and patience, you continue to help me grow into a better person, photographer, and business owner. My clients who have trusted me, thank you, you allow me to pursue my passion and express myself through my work. I’m blessed by how far I’ve come, and I look forward to what’s ahead.

Contact Info:

• Website: ShaiDawnn.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaidawnnphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShaiDawnnPhotography

Image Credits:
Jay Byers Kendal Westbrooks Shai Dawnn Photography