Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephenie Barrett
Hi Stephenie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey into documentary photography began with a love for stories—stories of people, places, and fleeting moments that often go unnoticed. I’ve always been drawn to observing life as it unfolds naturally, and as a kid, I was the one with a disposable camera, snapping pictures of everything. I didn’t realize it at the time, but I was already building a habit of capturing life as it happened.
In college, I initially pursued a different path, thinking photography could only be a hobby. But I quickly realized that documenting real, raw moments was where my passion truly lay. I switched gears, diving headfirst into photography courses and experimenting with everything from film cameras to digital. What struck me most was how photography could tell a story—without words—that felt authentic and timeless.
Over the years, I refined my craft by shooting anything I could: candid family sessions, small-town events, and eventually weddings. Weddings were a perfect fit because they’re rich with genuine emotion and unscripted interactions, and I love weaving those pieces together to tell the unique story of the day. From there, my work naturally evolved to include more personal projects, focusing on everyday life and human connection, which is what truly fuels my creativity.
Today, I’m fortunate to call photography my career. My work is about preserving the in-between moments—the laughter, tears, and quiet exchanges that make life so beautiful. I’m constantly inspired by the people I meet and the stories they entrust me to tell, and I feel so lucky to do what I do every day.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I think that’s what has made the journey so rewarding. Documentary photography is deeply personal, and there’s a vulnerability in putting your work out there for others to see and critique. In the early days, I struggled with self-doubt—wondering if my perspective was unique enough or if my work was good enough to stand out.
Building a career in photography also comes with practical challenges. There were times when I worked countless hours on shoots and edits, only to feel like I wasn’t progressing. I’ve faced financial uncertainty, equipment failures at critical moments, and the constant pressure of wearing multiple hats—photographer, marketer, editor, and business owner. Balancing the creative side of photography with the demands of running a business has been a learning curve.
On a more personal level, there have been moments where I had to make tough decisions—turning down projects that didn’t align with my vision or saying no to opportunities that might have been lucrative but didn’t feel authentic to my storytelling approach. Those choices were difficult at the time, but they’ve helped me stay true to my values and my passion for honest, raw storytelling.
Even with these challenges, I’ve found that the struggles have shaped me. They’ve taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of trusting my creative instincts. Every setback has pushed me to grow, refine my craft, and connect more deeply with the people and stories I document. While the road hasn’t been smooth, it’s been full of lessons that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
What sets me apart as a wedding photographer is my documentary approach and my deep focus on capturing the genuine, in-between moments that tell a couple’s unique story. I don’t just aim for perfectly posed photos—I look for the raw emotions, the fleeting glances, the unscripted laughter, and the quiet touches that often go unnoticed. These are the moments that truly bring a wedding day to life, and they’re what my clients treasure most when they look back on their photos.
I also prioritize connection with my couples. To me, being a wedding photographer isn’t just about showing up and snapping pictures—it’s about understanding who my clients are, their love story, and what’s important to them. I want them to feel comfortable, seen, and cared for so that their personalities shine through in every frame. This connection helps me document their day in a way that feels authentic and true to who they are.
Additionally, my editing style reflects my love for natural tones and timeless aesthetics. I aim for images that evoke emotion and stand the test of time, rather than chasing trends. It’s about creating photos that feel like memories—real, heartfelt, and full of life.
Ultimately, I think what truly sets me apart is my passion for storytelling. Every wedding is different, and I approach each one with fresh eyes and a heart wide open, ready to capture the beauty, chaos, and magic that unfolds naturally.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I’m incredibly thankful for the unwavering support of my partner, Jean, who encourages me every step of the way and believes in my vision. I’m also deeply grateful for my intern, Kortney, whose energy, dedication, and fresh perspective have been such an asset to my work. Additionally, I have so much admiration and appreciation for the local photography community—talented individuals like Brianna, Whitney, Sierra, Josie, Olivia, and so many others. Their camaraderie and creativity inspire me daily, and I’m so lucky to be part of such a supportive network.
Pricing:
- Elopements – Starting at $650
- 6-Hours – Starting at $2,500
- 8-Hours – Starting at $3,000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://satinsagephotoco.mypixieset.com/wedding-packages/
- Instagram: @satinsagephotoco
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/satinsagephotoco
