Sarah R Peterson

I'm so excited to be teaching with Tori at her photography retreat this summer! I'll be teaching attendees about in-studio lighting and how to use strobe lighting. Tori Elizabeth + Company hosts an excellent hands-on photography retreat and gives so much of her heart to education!

It's been a minute since I published a blog post but with the push of AI, I have a few thoughts about AI and photography.

AI-generated headshots have become increasingly popular. They’re fast, affordable, and promise a “perfect” professional image with minimal effort. But for business professionals, perfection isn’t the goal—credibility is.

When your headshot represents your personal brand, leadership presence, or business reputation, hiring a real photographer still offers advantages AI simply can’t replicate. You cannot replace technology for human connection.

I share my thoughts on AI and how/when to incorporate it in this blog post: https://f.mtr.cool/enfvittwid

Warning: Long, sappy post. ❤️ It was a mere coincidence these two beautiful ladies scheduled headshot sessions within a week of each other because while I was editing their images, I reflected on how long I’ve known them and how proud of them I am.

I met each of them during the first year I worked for our local chamber (many, many moons ago). I’ve watched both women transform their careers, while handling the challenges of motherhood. I know none of it has come easily because they both have demanding careers, yet both carry the resiliency to handle the demands life brings us.

It’s truly a pleasure to call them both friends, have our careers cross paths, and cheer them on as they make our community better. Thank you Christina Chapman Van Yperen & Julie Surratt Wilkinson!

Since I transitioned my business to mainly headshots and brand photography, I hardly photograph families anymore, but occasionally, friends ask me to photograph their families. Maddox’s senior session was one those times when I can’t say ‘no’ because she is so special to our family.

Maddox is part of our dance community, and she has poured so much of her heart into our daughter and other young dancers. Her genuine smile always brings a smile to others and her fun-loving attitude always brings the energy to any activity. On top of all that, she’s an excellent tap dancer!

I almost didn’t share her beautiful images because it doesn’t fit into my scope of business now. But when I think about it, senior sessions are the ultimate brand session because they get to show off their personality and interests that encapsulates this part of their life. And when friends ask, I always feel deeply honored to capture these milestones.❤️

So much fun working with Forte Arts Center on their Media Day this year! Months of planning went into creating custom brand images for them to use throughout the year. I think we covered almost all the holidays, fun themed days for the studio, important announcements, and annual productions. I can't wait to see how they use them all season long and see these dancers again for recital portraits in the spring!

Sometimes I forget how cool my job is! This week I documented a special visit that Morris was chosen for from the National League of Cities. I’m always honored to be able to document the great accomplishments of our city!

I’ve been doing A LOT of headshots lately, which may seem boring, but, it doesn’t have to be! Check my top requested looks…
1. Brand headshot
2. Modern headshot
3. Environmental headshot
4. Professional headshot

Which is your favorite?

I’ve been so busy for the last several months and had a chance to reflect this past weekend on how grateful I am to do photography and run my own business.

I’m taking a minute to show gratitude and what’s kept me thriving this past year!

Liberty Arts Festival is one of my favorite events to photograph because my family gets to join me while I work. (You will probably spot a few photos of my daughter. 😆) Truly, Visit Morris, IL does a wonderful job partnering with local artists and community groups to host a fantastic and interactive event for all ages!

The 9th Annual Liberty Arts Festival was held on August 19th, 2023 in Downtown Morris. Thanks to the artists, volunteers, sponsors, nonprofit partners, and businesses who made it so successful. The event elevates art in all its forms, inspiring artists and encouraging support for our local art economy. It's hosted by the City of Morris, in partnership with The Exibit Fine Arts Gallery.

It’s been a while since I’ve done any type of speaking engagement and I was so excited to be asked by the Grundy County Chamber of Commerce & Industry to speak with some Coal City businesses. Thank you!