Today we’d like to introduce you to Shannel Resto.
Shannel, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started my first career as a dancer and choreographer. Following a dream that began at three years old, I trained at the Dance Academy in Hyde Park and later majored in dance at the Boston Arts Academy, Rutgers University- Mason Gross School of the Arts, and the Laban Conservatoire in London. My company SJR Photography was founded in 2013, when I decided to combine my profession as a performing artist with my passion for photography. I originally dreamt of owning my own dance company. Yet, the reality of being an artist in NYC meant I needed something to sustain my passion for dance. So, I started my photography business in the performing arts sector to continue capturing the form of the art I love.
Meanwhile, I was touring and performing with the dance company Nyane Khosi Dance Theatre in NYC. It wasn’t until I truly started photographing other artists that I realized I love photography as much as I do dance. So, I shifted my focus to making it my second career. Photography is my opportunity to give back to my community by archiving and capturing the essence of beauty around us.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I transitioned my career from being a dancer to becoming a photographer, a shift that presented its own set of challenges. As a self-taught photographer, I faced numerous difficulties. However, I’ve gained confidence in my vision and work, which helps me navigate obstacles without losing faith in my abilities.
The most significant challenge has been mastering the business side of being an entrepreneur. Learning the intricacies of business management has often been a rocky road, and I frequently grapple with imposter syndrome. As my business scales, balancing the dual roles of a creative artist and a business manager is a daily endeavor. I advise others in similar positions to invest in workshops, read extensively, and maintain a commitment to continuous learning. Embrace an open-minded approach to new experiences, as this is essential for overcoming struggles and achieving growth.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Well, I like to say I’m the HER in PhotograpHer, your personal photographer, and memory photo catcher! I recently relocated to Atlanta from New York City as a rehearsal director, choreographer, dancer, photo editor, photographer and now author of my photography coloring book, Capture The Colors, available on Amazon. As I said SJR Photography emerged in 2013 as the culmination of my dual passions for performing arts and photography. Driven by a desire to expand horizons and challenge conventional thinking, I sought to ignite minds and inspire communities through my art. With a unique blend of creativity, professionalism, and an unwavering dedication to my craft, I have carved a niche for myself in the world of visual storytelling. At SJR Photography, I offer diverse photography styles including events, fashion, studio shoots, performances, and more. My dedication to excellence means I go the extra mile to ensure that every aspect of photographing your special moments is carefully attended to, ensuring an unforgettable experience for my clients. I understand the importance of quick turnaround times, providing you with high-resolution images that embody the essence of your moment.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed clients and achieving notable publications. My portfolio boasts an array of remarkable projects such as Life as a JPEG Book by Whitney Browne, Hube Magazine, New York City Center, Forbes, The Atlanta Journal- Constitution, Fox ATL, The New York Times, Dance Magazine, Shoutout ATL, PLAYBILL, Time Out NYC, Voyage ATL, The Jerusalem Post, PaperCity Magazine, The Medium, NYFW, Paris Haute Couture week, Eryc Taylor Dance- Inside Patricia Field’s Closet, PBS- ALL ARTS, No Longer Empty, Earl Mosley Institute of the Arts and more. My work has been showcased at Raw Artist NYC, Mint ATL, Cat Eye Creative, Rutgers Solo Gallery- The Travelers Obscura, Harlem Art Stroll Exhibition, and the Soho Blooming Art Show. And if you’re a fan of podcasts, you can catch me on some exciting shows like “She Calls Her Shots,” “The Confident CEO,” and “Second Act Success.”
Recognized for my eclectic style, my work has been described as daring, encompassing, and detailed. Every frame I shoot is a labor of love, meticulously composed to bring out the captivating narratives that may otherwise go unnoticed. Every click of my camera is an opportunity to capture the beauty I see in people, places, and objects, transforming them into timeless works of art. Guiding my clients through their vision is my utmost pleasure, creating experiences that stay with them long after the shutter clicks.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Many individuals have played pivotal roles in my success, and I credit my biggest supporters and mentors for their invaluable contributions. First and foremost, my faith in God has been instrumental in helping me stay focused and maintain hope. I am profoundly grateful to my mother for encouraging me to push myself, take risks, and constantly reminding me of my worth. My father has provided unwavering support, (Fun fact, that includes helping me purchase my first camera), for which I am deeply thankful. My fiancé has been a grounding force, assisting me in all my creative endeavors. My family and friends, including my grandmothers, aunts, uncles, and siblings, have been my greatest cheerleaders.
Regarding my mentors, they have awarded me a wealth of wisdom, creativity, and love. A pivotal moment in my journey I always come back to, was an email I sent to my dance professor, Kim Gibilisco, after graduating from university. This connection led me to my mentor, Whitney Browne, a prominent portrait and dance photographer, who then introduced me to another mentor, Christopher Duggan, a skilled wedding and dance photographer. Additionally, I have been fortunate to receive guidance from Sterling McDavid, a member of the UNICEF New York Board of Directors and Founder & CEO of Sterling McDavid Design, and Eryc Taylor, the Artistic Director of Eryc Taylor Dance. These mentors have been with me from the beginning of my photography career, opening numerous doors and opportunities, for which I am eternally grateful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sjrestophotography.wixsite.com/sjrphotographs
- Instagram: @s.j.rphotography
- Other: https://linktr.ee/s.j.rphotography
Image Credits
Portrait Photo of Shannel Resto were taken by Jahnay Hernandez Portraits of Shannel Resto in a Polaroid shirt were taken by Daniel Friday SJR Photography logo credit: Fanesha Fabre All other images are my credit Shannel Resto (SJR Photography) including Sky Poole Pearl Portrait, Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture fashion week, Eryc Taylor Dance performance, Annalee Traylor performance at Emory University, RogueWave portraits, and “Capture the Colors” Coloring book
