Welcome to Shari Photography! We are a proud of being a part of the St Louis Portrait photography scene with over 15 years of experience capturing events, headshots, engagements. Our clients trust us to deliver exceptional service, stunning photographs, and outstanding value. But beyond the lens, there’s a story—a passion rooted in family, history, and the timeless beauty of photography.
Where It All Began: A Personal Journey Through the Lens
Photography has always been a part of my life. I can’t remember a family vacation, holiday, or special celebration where there wasn’t a camera nearby. It wasn’t just a tool; it was a constant companion, capturing the memories that would later fill boxes of 4×5 prints in my parents’ closet. These photos, taken by my father, were more than just images—they were emotional snapshots, each one capable of bringing a smile or a tear. My father wasn’t a professional photographer, but he had an instinctive love for capturing moments, and it’s through his eyes that I first saw the magic of photography.
Looking through those old photos, I feel a connection like no other art form provides. Photography has a way of instantly transporting us to the past, linking us to moments we’ve experienced, people we’ve loved, and emotions we’ve felt. This deep emotional impact is what drew me into photography and set the stage for my journey behind the lens.
My father’s camera, a Minolta SRT 101, became my first love in photography. It was the camera he passed down to me, and today, it’s the same camera my daughter uses as she develops her own eye for photography. At the time, I believed the Minolta SRT was the greatest camera ever made, and in many ways, I still do. It wasn’t just about capturing an image; it was about understanding the delicate dance between light, shadow, and composition. It was with this camera that I began to appreciate how photography combines technical skill with artistic vision.
The Evolution of a Photographer- About the Photographer
While I now shoot with Canon’s best digital SLRs and lenses, I’m forever grateful for starting my journey with film. The hands-on experience of loading film, developing it in a darkroom, and seeing images come to life taught me lessons no digital screen could. There’s a certain discipline in film photography—a slower, more intentional process that forces you to consider every shot. I’m convinced that my background in film has made me a better photographer today.
Photography isn’t just a profession for me—it’s a deep, emotional connection that links me to my family. My father inspired my love for capturing life’s moments, and my mother passed on her artistic and creative instincts. Every time I take a photograph that stirs an emotional response, I know my mother’s influence is present in the frame. This connection to my parents, who now live on a different continent, is part of why photography holds such a special place in my heart.
In fact, Shari Photography is named after my father, who continues to be a positive force in my life. The name of the business reflects the connection I feel to him, and by extension, to my heritage. Every time I pick up a camera, I feel linked to the past, to my parents, and to the countless memories we’ve captured together. My mother’s creativity flows through every shot, and my father’s passion for life and love for photography guides my work.
The Tools of the Trade and the Evolution of Craft- About the Photographer
Today, I use the most advanced equipment available in the photography world. Canon’s professional-grade cameras and lenses allow me to capture images with clarity, precision, and depth. But the essence of my craft remains rooted in the foundational lessons I learned from film. The balance between light and shadow, the art of composition, and the emotional impact of a well-timed photograph have stayed the same.
And while technology continues to evolve, I still hold onto every camera I’ve ever owned. These cameras are more than tools—they are milestones, each one marking a different phase of my development as a photographer. From the Minolta SRT to my current digital equipment, these cameras tell the story of my growth and evolution.
Where We Are Today: Shari Photography’s Services
Shari Photography has grown from a personal passion into a full-service photography studio, offering a range of services tailored to meet your unique needs. We specialize in:
- Headshots for business professionals and actors
- Lifestyle portraits that capture candid, intimate moments
- Event photography, covering everything from corporate events to family celebrations
- Engagement sessions that tell the story of your love
Our team brings the same dedication and passion to every project, whether it’s a simple headshot or an elaborate event. We believe that every photograph has the power to connect us—to a memory, to a feeling, and to one another.
The Photography Team
While I lead Shari Photography, I’m not alone in this journey. Our talented team of photographers shares the same passion and commitment to capturing moments that matter. We work together to ensure that every client receives the best possible experience. Whether we’re shooting in a professional studio or at an outdoor event, we approach every project with creativity, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence.
Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together
At Shari Photography, we understand that a photograph is more than just an image. It’s a way of preserving memories, capturing emotions, and telling a story. We look forward to hearing from you and learning how we can help you capture your special moments.
My name is Reza Behnam – Owner and Lead Photographer of Shari Photography.
