Meet Zoe Abrams

We had the good fortune of connecting with Zoe Abrams and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My business and my art is based on the belief that everyone should be seen and photographed as they are. As a wedding and couples photographer, representation is incredibly important to me. I want the people looking to hire me feel included and empowered every step of the process. I try to capture love and people in all of its forms regardless of sexuality, race, or gender identity. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space for everyone to show up authentically in front of the camera.

One of the biggest challenges in getting to where I am today was choosing to leave a stable 9–5 job to dive head-first into this business. It’s scary and uncertain at times, but the incredible people I get to work with keep me going. I’ve found a lot of empowerment in recognizing that my art is more than just taking photos. It’s about capturing my clients most meaningful moments and creating a space for people to feel seen.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Santa Barbara is such a special place and I feel lucky that I’ve been able to live here for the last eight years! If someone were visiting for a week, we would certainly visit all of the best beaches, nature spots, coffee shops, and food-stops. My favorite thing to do with visitors is to spend the day walking around downtown spending the day popping in and out of the local shops, strolling around the courthouse, and ending the day at the beach for sunset. Another must-see spot for me is the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. It has views of the mountains, beach, and they even have a Redwood grove! It’s one of my favorite places for taking photos.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d love to shout out my dear friend, mentor, and fellow photographer, Rebecca Spiegelman or Bex Photography. From the very beginning of my photography journey, she’s been an incredible source of support, encouragement, and wisdom. From early creative photoshoots in college, to allowing me to shadow her on weddings, she’s been an incredible source of support, encouragement, and wisdom. She didn’t just cheer me on, but she believed in my abilities. Her presence has truly helped shape both my confidence and my career. I feel so lucky to have her, among others, in my corner and admire the way she lifts up those around her friends, photographers, and clients alike.

Website: https://www.zoeraephoto.com

Instagram: @zoeraephoto