Vendors I Love: IMPRESSENSHI
I met Senshi at a local Rising Tide meeting many years ago. I immediately loved her positive energy. Our professional paths FINALLY crossed a few years ago when we worked together on a Central Park elopement. She sent me some photos a few weeks later, and I loved how she captured the intimate moments with ease. Plus she has an amazing eye for color! I am proud to now also call her a friend. Without further ado, here's a little more about SENSHI LION!
What was the path that led you to become a photographer?
When I first moved to the States, I won a camera in a giveaway! I was skeptical when I got the email informing me to make my way to a Best Buy. I thought it was a scam, but I was too curious. So I printed the confirmation email and went to the Best Buy location indicated. Lo and behold, there was a camera waiting for me. Everyone around me stared at me like I was crazy, because I was laughing out loud in disbelief.
I took my brand new DSLR home and began photographing everything I could. A friend of mine had a band, so I started photographing underground hip hop and later began taking portraits. One day, my brother in-law's best friend hired me to document their wedding. I have been hooked ever since. The pleasure has truly been all mine to witness and be a part of people's weddings.
What excites you about weddings?
The joy I feel at weddings! It always energizes me. It always makes me smile when I see all the joy around the wedding parties -- as they get dressed in the morning or when they are waiting for the wedding ceremony to start. I can feel that joy in my bones. It never gets old to see the happiness of the couple.
What do you look for in a couple?
Laid back couples that are all about celebrating the start of a marriage, and much as the wedding. I know this sounds weird, but also couples that like to have their photos in print. LOL. Couples that I would be friends with personally. I have been blessed to have couples that I have later become friends with after the wedding. I love the sincere friendships that I cultivate.
What is the greatest compliment you’ve ever received?
That I have great communication skills. I am multilingual, and I was at a wedding where the bride's mother spoke Cantonese and the groom's mother spoke Mandarin. I was sharing the timeline for family portraits with both mothers and some of the wedding party noticed that I spoke both languages. It was important for me to take the time to explain what was going on as both mothers did not speak English. I don't like seeing anyone feeling or being left out due to language barriers. Therefore, I always make sure to take a few minutes to explain what is going on so that everyone is able to celebrate the joyous occasion together.
What do you desire for your business?
That my business will always be about the connection with people. I believe that I am in the business of relationships and I hope that my business continues to always reflect that.
What are you grateful for?
I am grateful that I can be a part of people's lives. Whether it is at a wedding that I am photographing happy moments or with my with family and friends. I love to see people happy and succeeding. I love being able to be there for the people I love.
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