Margaret Sowa
Photographer / Videographer
New York, NY
www.margaretemilystudio.com
instagram @margaretemilystudio
pinterest
Q What do you do?
“I take photos and videos of products. My main focus is macro imagery, leaning into vintage inspired tactile work.”
Think lots of hands and textures, touching and feeling.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
For many years I considered photography only a hobby, it wasn’t until the pandemic when I realized I could turn it into a career. I took a risk leaving full-time work that wasn't making me happy, and realized it was the best decision that I could have made.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I am a wearer of many hats. I love being in charge of creative direction but also working with amazing creatives and bounce off ideas. I style all my photographs, as well as film and edit videos. I love challenging myself and learning new skills.
Q What are you working on right now?
Working on video content for a luxury skincare brand and working on some imagery for a haircare brand that I work with on a consistent basis. Video has grown increasingly more popular for me.
Q What’s your style?
I would describe my style as a mix of vintage, modern, and clean, with a heavy focus on detail.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
Creative direction, I would love to be able to have creative freedom and experiment more with my work for clients.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
It is frustrating to see brands expect creatives to handle many aspects of a shoot for a low price. To churn out content quickly and cheaply. Many times I have brands reach out, only to ghost me before or after sending a project estimate. Also creatives not being paid on time is a huge frustration.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
I would hire someone who could handle client inquiries, send estimates, negotiate contracts for me. The logistical side of running a business that give me anxiety.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
I would have told myself to never give up (all those times I gave up!) and that you can turn your hobby and passion into a career. To take risks and connect with people who you admire. That you are worth fair compensation and to promote yourself more, you are worth it!
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I would love more insight on contracts and legal aspects of running a business.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I currently work mostly in the beauty industry but would love to branch out to food, wellness, or fashion. I look for both one off projects, but also love fostering long-term ongoing relationships with brands.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal client is one who appreciates good design, is creative and has many ideas, but also listens to my ideas and lets me take risks. I love easy going clients where communication is seamless and stress free.
Q What is your rate?
Depends on many variables, especially since I create work with various mediums. Reach out with specifics about your project and then I can create a tailored estimate.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Fill out the form on my website with details about any upcoming projects: margaretemilystudio.com/contact
Q Who is a creative you admire?
My Pisces sister Maria Be (mariaebe.com) who creates stunning work that I admire, and is always there to talk about the struggles of being a freelancer.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Taking breaks in nature.
This member profile was originally published in December 2022.