How I became a Sydney personal brand photographer | Karen Sadek Photography

Get to know the woman behind the lens… yep, that’s me!

Heyyyyy I’m Karen Sadek, your Sydney personal brand photographer for all the ambitious entrepreneurs and trailblazing business owners out there who are ready to level up and take over the internet.

You’ll usually find me behind the lens, snapping away, but today, I’m stepping into the spotlight to share a bit about myself, my business, and how I fell head over heels for personal brand photography. Spoiler alert: It wasn’t always smooth sailing.

A childhood love for photography

Let’s take a trip down memory lane! 🥹

As a kid, I was all about art and play—if it was creative, I was into it. Fast forward to my early twenties, and I was still chasing that buzz through graphic design, found myself as a social worker and then eventually photography.

Being a mum of three, I found my happy place behind the camera, capturing every single (adorable and chaotic) moment of my kids’ lives. I mean, who doesn’t want to remember the time your kid smeared pasta sauce all over their face, right? Eventually, friends and family started asking me to take their photos too, and I figured, why the hell not?

Like any good side hustle-turned-full-time business, it all started on weekends, capturing those melt-your-heart moments with newborns and their exhausted parents. I soon realised that maybe, just maybe, this whole photography thing was more than a hobby—it was a sign. So, I went all in, offering maternity and newborn shoots in my home studio and at outdoor locations.

Before I knew it, I was booked solid for weeks on end. Sure, it was hectic balancing family and work, but man, I loved every second of it!

And let’s be real—mums are pros at putting everyone else first. When my clients hesitated to be in the frame, I told them straight up: Get in front of that camera, love! Your story deserves to be seen. And guess what? Those photos turned into cherished memories, full of snuggles, cuddles, and all that good stuff.

Then, I had a lightbulb moment: I was so busy with clients that I didn’t even have time to take photos for my own website or socials. That’s when it hit me—other female business owners must be in the same boat! And just like that, the personal branding photography side of my business was born.

My values and photography philosophy

As a personal branding photographer, I put myself out there on my website and socials, but let’s be honest, it’s still nerve-wracking as anything. If you feel the same way, don’t worry—I’ve got your back!

I’m all about creating a safe and relaxed setting for your shoot. No stiff poses, no cheesy smiles, just real, beautiful photos that capture the essence of you and your brand. My motto? Awkwardness does NOT make for fabulous photos!

Who is my dream client?

My ideal client is that ambitious entrepreneur who’s either launching their first or third business (because who doesn’t love a serial entrepreneur?), or that trailblazing business owner ready to level up their online presence.

Whether you love being in front of the camera or can’t stand it, you know it’s time to get some killer photos that scream, “Look at me, I’m the boss!” You’re ready to step out confidently, grow your business, and be seen as the go-to expert in your industry.

I’ve worked with some seriously amazing women who are out there smashing it:

• Marketing Mentor Tracy Harris from @mumswithhustle
• Instagram and Reels Queen, Monique Forcella from @thesocialista
• Christmas Tree Stylist Alana Arena from @danceranddasher
• Nutritionist Ana Robinson from @nourish_us

Need a photographer who gets your vibe and knows how to amplify it online? Look no further—I’m your gal.

 

ENQUIRE ABOUT A SESSION

 

My portfolio of client branding photos

I work hard to create a relaxed vibe before and during your shoot. We’ll chat about your vision, build a mood board, pick out outfits, and scope out locations. I’m here to make sure you feel empowered and in control the whole time. The more relaxed and confident you feel, the more your photos will reflect the real you—and that’s what will draw in your ideal clients.

The result? You’ll be so obsessed with your photos that you’ll want to plaster them everywhere and attract your ideal client in return!

 

The impact of branding photography

Think of your favourite brand. What pops into your head first? My bet is on their logo or a killer photo.

• In a world where everyone’s shouting to get noticed, a strong visual brand is your secret
  weapon. It can help your business:
• Stand out in a crowded market
• Stick in people’s minds
• Build a strong emotional connection with your audience
• Make your brand feel more human and approachable
• Boost customer confidence and understanding of what you offer
• Create a polished, consistent brand presence online

Your branding shoot isn’t just about social media—it’s a key part of your entire brand identity.
Ready to take your brand to the next level? Check out my branding packages.

A peek into my process

If I had a dollar for every time a client told me they hated having their picture taken, I’d be retired on a tropical island, sipping margaritas by now! 🍹

My whole process is designed to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera, even if you’re a first-timer. We’ll go through everything step by step, so by the time the shoot rolls around, you’ll be ready to nail it.

Why work with me?

My branding photography experience is all about you. It’s personalised to your needs and designed to make you feel like the superstar you are. As your branding photographer, I’ll capture every part of your entrepreneurial journey—from your bold vision to those behind-the-scenes moments that make your business unique.

Need videos on the day of the shoot? I’ve got you covered with high-res and iPhone B-roll options.

I’m in, what’s next?

Wow, you made it to the end! That was a bit of a marathon, but I promise it’s worth it. Now it’s your turn to tell YOUR story. Hit me up with an enquiry and let me know what you’re looking for. Feeling a bit nervous? Don’t be—I’m here to make this experience as easy and fun as possible.

Let’s transform your brand into something that truly reflects you. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Client love:

“Karen is the BEST!! So glad I found her for my branding shoot. She made the whole experience fun and stress-free. Plus, the photos turned out AMAZING! Can’t wait to work with her again!”

– Vanessa W.