Today we’d like to introduce you to Imani Sharp.
Hi Imani, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I got started doing photos & photo booths by realizing I’d been influenced to create memories, big or small, my entire life. My mom keeps COUNTLESS AMOUNTS of photos, hung & stored. My late papa kept a Quicksnap camera in his pocket everywhere he went! We could be getting fries from Mcdonald’s & he’d make my brother & me stop for photos before we left.
I remember having a moment when he passed away, he would tell me “Don’t be afraid to pose Mani Draes & that moment began the journey. Hence my phrase, “Pose like it’s your power.” He’d make me feel fearless when he told me that.
I’m still creating memories today because I have an incredible & supportive community behind me. Without the help of family, the referrals from friends & the faith of my clients, I would not be in this position. They’ve spoken my name in rooms I’ve never stepped in, came through for me in my times of need & continue to show & shout me out. I’m forever grateful!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has had its ups & downs. Starting off, I only booked 1 paying event. I’m still so grateful for her, by the way.
Without her, I would have never gotten the photos to promote my new business, at the time. It wasn’t until the holiday season, last year, that things picked up for Loc’d En. Since then, the roads have been steady and fruitful with opportunities & recognition! I can’t complain at all!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Well, initially I started doing photo booths for events. Birthdays, weddings, cookouts. It was into the second half of my first year, that people wanted me to capture more personal memories. It went from holiday photos to 21st birthday photos in a matter of weeks!
I’m most proud of the energy I’m able to give during my sessions. It shows in the smiles & final shots of my clients! When people inquire about a session or start a conversation based solely on the positive things they’ve heard, it honestly fills my heart entirely!
I think what sets me apart from others is the fact that I’m able to conform my creativity to help make memories last forever, on and off the camera. Along with that great energy, of course!
Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
At the moment that you decide to take a risk, the very next moment could be your big break or that recognition you’re looking for. Now the process of deciding if the risk is “worth it”, that’s where I struggle.
I tend to say YES a ton because, why not? But then I realize, that alone is a big risk in itself. You never really know one’s true intentions. Even if yours are always pure.
Pricing:
- Photo Time w/ No Backdrop – $55/hr
- Photo time w/ Backdrop – $75/hr
- Inflatable Photo Booth – $75/hr
- Puppy Portraits – $125.00/2hrs
Contact Info:
- Website: www.locdenphotos.com/gallery
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/locdenphotos
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/locdenphotos
Image Credits
Imani of Loc’d En Photos
