We were lucky to catch up with Saene Esmee recently and have shared our conversation below.
Saene, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Studying Fashion design and getting inspiration from magazines I’ve noticed that I was most inspired by editorials and the photography part of fashion. Not long after I started my internship in New York (with a fashion brand). On my first work day the brand had their collection photoshoot and I knew that this was what I wanted to do: Fashion Photography.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Im a European photographer specializing and working in the Kids Fashion industry. I work for kids brands and shooting with kids models for agencies. After being in the business for about 8 years I recently moved from the Netherlands to Los Angeles to start my career here.
Working with kids is a combination of great joy with a challenge. Kids only have a short attention span and kids will always give you something authentic that can’t be staged.
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?
Being creative, understanding light and being patient is key to work in fashion with kids.
You have to act and work fast to capture the right light and moments with kids. But also be patient and understand that kids are super sensitive. Its important to make the session fun, quick and easy to work with them.
If you want to work in fashion with kids I would advice to make sure you know how to get the best shots in different light situations so you can shoot fast. Make sure kids are comfortable and parents are always close. And lastly to be successful, try to differentiate yourself from others and develop your own style so your work stands out.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
Being Dutch I grew up very humble. As a kids you hear this dutch expression: “Doe maar normaal dan doe je al gek genoeg”, translated: “Just act normal and you’re acting crazy enough”. To explain: It has different interperations but it can be seen as a reflection of a cultural value placed on modesty, humility, and avoiding unnecessary attention-seeking behavior.
Being in the US I’ve learned that you have to promote yourself really well and work even harder to accomplish things. Its not crazy to tell people that you’re work is amazing and you’re the best at your job. Its not bragging but promoting and selling your talent!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.saene-esmee.com
- Instagram: @saenesmee
- Linkedin: Saene Photography
Image Credits
photos for: Ammehoela kids, LA models, Zuri Agency
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
