Rising Stars: Meet Sara Grace Morrison

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara Grace Morrison.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have had a love affair with light my whole life. In high school and college, I was on the journalism committee. I was the keeper of memories and always had a camera in my hand. My first official camera was an AE-1 35mm manual film camera and completely obsessed with it. I learned how to study light and how to do things “old school”. I remember while teaching in Europe I was in Amsterdam I visited the Rembrandt museum.

He was A master of light and I was hooked. The love affair went on and even though photography was my passion I never thought I could make money at it. So while attending Baylor University I chose science. I thought medicine was my future but I get faint easily so not for me. I loved photography so much and with some support from my family, I created a business. I took two marketing classes in college and one business class so why not.

In 2003 my father bought me my first digital camera. I was pregnant at the time with my daughter Grace so the only name for a business I could think of was Sara Grace Photography. I had no clue what I was doing only that I loved light and people. Slowly everything came into place.

I started out photographing kids and events for 2 years then trained and mentored with several different artists. I wanted to learn everything and no better education than mistakes and I never let mistakes go to waste. I became better at my craft and at business, eventually, I found my path. Most photographers know the photography is easier than the business of photography. So many lessons in time management, marketing, and money. I gleaned the knowledge from entrepreneurs like my father who is still a well of wisdom. Business is people and at the end of the day if you love others, know your worth, and believe in your product/craft you will create magic.

I have traveled the world and worked with wonderful artists in Dallas, New York, Maryland, Virginia, Italy, and beyond. I am a military wife so I have moved around a bit; however, Nashville is home and parts of my family have been here for over 40 years. I have met and worked with so many fantastic artists and people here. Nashville has camaraderie and spirit that you can feel. In the wedding industry, we are all for one purpose to share our gifts and celebrate love.

My husband John (who I can’t live without and is possibly the best human on the planet) has been a huge support to me. John has set up many shows and is my biggest fan. We have two beautiful daughters Grace (17) and Madelyn (9). God blessed me far more than I deserve and they are the light to my day and the loves of my life.

I have always wanted to be a small business, not a huge company. I strive for balance and peace above all. I want to bring a personal touch to every experience. My team has over five photographers and videographers on it, three on staff, and three; we partner with on contracts. I believe in pouring into others and sharing the experiences of my life.

Important Facts about me – I have a deep relationship and faith in Jesus Christ. I am only here because He provided the way. I love that verse in John about light… John 12:36 Believe in the light while you have the light, so that you may become children of light.” I feel it is my purpose to capture light and love to share it with the world. I am a light chaser above all.

I am a planner and at the same time, I love to be spontaneous. I believe everyone is beautiful and God doesn’t make mistakes. I love my work to my soul but I will always put my girls before a phone call. I am a giver and I love serving. I want to make everything beautiful and leave a legacy of joy.

I am here today because a good God gave me the best gifts in the world. Talent, Love, and People. So many people trust me with their most important moments and I carry this honor to my core. I feel everything and want to wrap it up and hold time. The greatest adventure on the planet is love. Love of others, Love of a partner, Love of family. Loving yourself. I am here for the adventure, so let’s go.

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?
In the Beginning:

1. Time management, the sheer volume of time spent editing!! lightroom was not invented when I started.
2. The Business of contracts, money management, and client relations.
3. Second-guessing, your worth and not demanding more for your product. KNOW YOUR WORTH!
4. Block time for yourself -hustle is amazing but mental health is essential. most people in this industry are givers and we count ourselves last.
5. Competitive spirit is wonderful but integrity is superior. There have been places I have lived and worked where other artists value the dollar over a relationship. Rise above and always see people with love. You don’t have to be in a relationship but we must be kind.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am Sara Grace I have over 17 years of experience photographing weddings and portraits. I lead a team of talented artists all contributing to the ultimate wedding experience. We are based in Nashville Tn. we travel and capture weddings and couples all over the world. I love all photography however I am very blessed to have photograph over 400 weddings and events.

I have found the most efficient way to direct and connect with people. I want to create a place of peace and ease. To be fully present. I want a relationship. I love the beauty of lovers, families, and soldiers returning home. Life. Just give me all the life filled with love and sprinkled with lots of perfect light. My clients are precious to me this is more than a contract. I am known for weddings and for being really joyful. What sets me apart according to my team and my clients would be my spirit. I can’t help it I am happy most of the time and I am insanely happy on a wedding day. I would say I am a very unique director and leader. I want to create trust and ease with my clients. Photography is a relationship.

I am so proud to be the lead photographer with CBS sports Triumph games at West Point. I captured several days of wounded veterans competing in a battle of strength and endurance. This experience was absolutely incredible and so humbling. I am so proud to be an army wife and serve others in every way I can. It is my daily joy to capture weddings all over the world. One of my absolute favorites was the wedding in Italy and the Nigerian/Ghanaian wedding in 2019. The cultures, colors, tradition, and beauty. I just am so thankful that I get to hold it all.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I love to network and grow our artist community. I mentor lots of artists and I think giving back is so important. I have learned so much and giving is always better than receiving. If your not busy call me let’s go chase light!

Pricing:

• Owner Pricing is $2400-$4000
• Team Pricing- $1800-$3200
• Portrait Pricing- $300-450
• Event Pricing – $500 and up.
• Headshots- $200

Contact Info:

• Email: Sara@saragracephotography.com
• Website: Saragracephotography.com
• Instagram: @saragracephoto
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saragracephoto/?show_switched_toast=1&show_switched_tooltip=1&show_podcast_settings=0

Image Credits:
Sara Grace Photography