Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Cebulski.
Hi Sarah, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When I was 10, my grandpa gave me a little purple Polaroid camera, and I like to say that I never put it down. I’d convince my friends and family to do full-on photoshoots. I’d dress them up in construction paper outfits, throw wigs on them, or do their makeup.
When I moved from New York to Florida at 13, I started finding my style. I upgraded my gear and connected with other young photographers on Instagram. We would thrift wardrobe, scout different locations like abandoned buildings or nature preserves, and take turns shooting portraits of each other.
At 16, I began reaching out to local wedding photographers, asking if I could shadow or help out in any way. Lisa Silva Photography responded and took me under her wing, giving me real opportunities while I was still in high school. From there, I started second shooting weddings with other photographers any chance I could—school during the week, weddings on the weekends.
Those early experiences meant everything, not just about photography, but about people, connection, and storytelling. I truly do believe that purple polaroid is what started it all though.
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?
Not even close! But honestly, I don’t think any artist would say it’s been a smooth ride. There were definitely a lot of bumps, but I like to say I did my best to speed over them.
Balancing high school and photography was tough. My parents have always valued education and really encouraged me to take the traditional college route. Meanwhile, I watched friends go off to art schools and move to NYC to chase their creative dreams. I followed the more traditional route and went to college, but it didn’t feel right. After two years, I dropped out and moved to New York, hoping to make it as a fashion photographer.
It was a humbling experience. I quickly realized how hard it was to break into such a competitive and saturated industr,y, especially without connections or money. As much as I wanted it, I felt stuck. It wasn’t until I moved back to Jacksonville that I realized I loved storytelling just as much as I loved fashion, and weddings were this beautiful mix of the two. They gave me a way to be creative, connect with people, and build a sustainable business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I’m a human first, photographer second. Film photography has always been something I value deeply in my work. Whether I’m capturing a wedding, a fashion shoot, or a personal project, it always comes back to people and their stories. I strive to capture all of life’s “in-between” moments. Wedding days fly by so quickly, and I want to make sure I’m providing timeless images that will be cherished for a lifetime. Whether it’s a first look with dad, a black and white portrait of grandma, or a ring bearer running off mid-ceremony, I’m all about capturing the moment authentically.
My biggest priority is making sure anyone in front of my lens feels comfortable enough to truly be themselves. When people feel at ease, the photos reflect that. I like to think that I can connect with people. As an empath, I want everyone I work with to feel seen, heard, and celebrated. Whether you’re a client, a friend, or someone I’ve just met, you’re welcome here exactly as you are.
How do you define success?
Success isn’t linear. You can’t have success without failure because mistakes are where you learn and grow. For me, true success isn’t about financial status, it’s about living the life that feels right for you. You can have all the wealth in the world, but if you’re too burned out to enjoy it, what’s the point? Success, for me, is more about emotional wealth, seeking balance in an unbalanced world, and doing what I love without sacrificing my well-being.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sarahcebulski.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahcebulskiphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Sarah-Cebulski-Photography/100081578626879/
