Shauntreis is an Arizona-based Photographer that shoots multiple genres including headshots, sports, portraits, and wildlife. Shauntreis specializes in documentary-style work with the goal of promoting positivity and unity for social issues, especially those centered on human rights.
Shauntreis also performs work as a brand ambassador/advertising for small businesses and larger companies. She loves to network with people for the purpose of improving our world and local communities.
After having overcome a wide number of obstacles in her life and also in working in corporate America, Shauntreis was inspired, pre-Covid, to start her own businesses. Shauntreis brings a wealth of experience to her endeavors; both collegiate and from the varied industries that she has worked, including the areas of Business Administration, Management, Economics, Advertising, Finance, and Healthcare.
Shauntreis spent many years volunteering her time and efforts to non-profits, especially those in the areas of education, wellness, and spiritual growth. She enjoys working with youth as well as adults and sharing her wisdom with individuals from all walks of life.
What inspired the start of ” Shaun Finette Photography “?
SFP started out of my desire to paint my own original works in watercolor. However, after I started taking photos I became more interested in advancing my skillset in photography. I realized shortly thereafter that I had always been intrigued with photography because I was the one who created and collected the family photo albums. I also began noticing how photography pushed me to be adventurous. It was helping me with my long-time struggle with social anxiety.
What has been the biggest challenge of running a brand like ” Shaun Finette Photography “?
The biggest hurdle has been trying to find a way to impact our communities and the world around us beyond taking a photograph. I ponder often on how I can stretch my business and place my visions into an expressive form that will call people to action. I truly want to inspire love in people and help them see how we can impact the world and the communities around us when we take time to care for the disadvantaged, pay attention to the social issues in our communities, and care for the environment around us. Furthermore, the attempt to do this with limited resources has been very difficult.
How does ” Shaun Finette Photography ” impact the community?
SFP has done free photoshoots for local nonprofits and worked to bring awareness to various events and businesses to inspire us to get out and socialize with one another and have fun celebrating our lives.
SFP also has an online presence, which is geared at making social media posts that inspire positivity and empowerment.
My reach has been limited, but I am always exploring ways to extend my efforts and have things in the works. It just takes time to build each platform, but my dedication hasn’t wavered.
You are a photographer who specializes in more than one genre, what is the creative process like preparing for shoots?
Preparation is definitely important and looks different for each shoot/genre. Equipment preparation starts at least a day or two beforehand, and the creative process may start a week ahead if time allows. There are many times when I’m just going with the flow and capturing the moment because I like to feel my art. In regards to equipment, for example, with wildlife photography I’m not only taking items to do the work, such as the heavier super-telephoto lens, extra batteries, etc, but also survival items such as a compass, whistle, extra water, and items to protect myself should I come in contact with a threat in the wilderness. On the contrary, for portrait/headshots sessions I would have my standard/wide/macro lenses, props, and professional lighting equipment, accordingly.
Where do you hope to see your brand in the next 3-5 years?
I would like to say that I visualize my brand being more of a household name, seeing my prints in more businesses, and bringing about a great amount of awareness. However, with the fluidity of my business, I don’t want to limit where this can go. I’m taking it one day at a time and know from experience that life can change in a blink of an eye. At the end of the day, I sincerely want to make a positive impact no matter what happens.
What advice do you have for the next generation of entrepreneurs?
Never give up! You are powerful and please understand that great things come with a struggle and don’t happen overnight. We have all been there and that’s okay. It’s our fortitude that really speaks to people at the end of the day. Lastly, whatever you do, be yourself and search for the Truth.
What does being “Pretty and Black Owned” mean to you?
Being Pretty and Black Owned to me means rising from the ashes and being in charge of yourself. No one is perfect and no one’s life will ever go perfectly. As Black people, our Culture has especially endured some unfortunate and devastating experiences. This does not define us, but instead, what’s inside of us does. Pull that beauty and creativity out for not only yourself but to uplift others. Invest in yourself and in the communities worldwide. You are indeed powerful and you matter. You owe it to yourself and our ancestors to keep going! We are all connected to something Bigger! Something Spiritual! Something Real Pretty!
Connect with Shauntreis:
Facebook: Shaun Finette Photography
Instagram: shaun_finette_photography
Website: www.shaunfinettephotography.mypixieset.com
