We recently connected with Samantha Dorisca and have shared our conversation below.
Samantha, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
I have always been a firm believer that purpose and confidence comes from God. I am not searching for my value from those around me. As long as I am operating from a place of purpose, I feel like I belong in the rooms that I enter, the people I converse with, and the opportunities I am blessed with.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a multi-talent, wearing the hats of a journalist and photographer. My sole purpose is to amplify my community. As a storyteller, I take pride in sharing stories that sometimes may not receive national coverage. Across various industries, there are incredible change-makers using their own resources, often without investors or support from banks, to improve their communities.
What is special about my role as a journalist is the realization that storytelling matters. It has the power to educate, heal, inspire, and transform lives. Last year, I received a message expressing gratitude from co-founders who credited ample opportunities to a story I had written.
As a photographer, I take pleasure in capturing the brilliance and beauty of my community. The consistent feedback I receive over the years revolves around the radiance of my subjects when people explore my portfolio.
Photography will always be special to me because it is my safe space. It began as a hobby while in high school, using an iPhone, and would be my saving grace during one of the most difficult time periods of my life while attending The University of Austin at Texas.
I have recently opened up my spring bookings in Texas, so be on the lookout for more work. I am also excited to be bringing to light two editorial projects within the first quarter of 2024. They will reflect the direction I am looking to take my work moving forward.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Three qualities that I feel have been crucial in my journey are kindness, informed, and prepared.
My advice for beginners is to examine your attitude and heart posture. Be mindful of your interactions with others, not only with clients. I’ve had my name mentioned positively purely through recommendations. Also, stay informed and prepared by remaining a student of your craft and seek guidance from those with greater expertise.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
One of the most influential actions my parents, especially my father, took was urging me to hold onto my entry-level camera when I began my journey in photography. As I entered my senior year, I had bought a Canon camera with a kit lens. It felt like a risky move as I was navigating multiple changes, including my career path. Nevertheless, it turned out to be one of the wisest choices I’ve ever made as it aligned me more closely with my purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sammiedorphotography.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sammiedor.photography/
- Twitter: sammiedormedia
