Hey there!
I'm Jami Saunders
Family and Brand Photographer based in Brooklyn NY + The Hamptons. Available Worldwide.
I didn't always know I wanted to be a
photographer.
I was pre-med and took the MCAT. I got accepted into multiple Master’s programs for Architecture. I considered a career in Child Psychology. I worked under fashion designers, interior designers and chefs. I even went to culinary school.
I still remember sitting in on the design meetings with my dad and his architect when I was 9 years old, as Pops was building his dream house, and one that would shape me and my perspective forever.
I have always been drawn to the creative and visual arts, to the exploration and celebration of the human experience, but I was on the hunt for my thing for what felt like forever.
Ultimately, at the intersection of art, design, life and love I found where I belonged...
voilà, photography.
What is my
Photography Style
I’m a “real people” photographer. Those genuine, spontaneous moments are my jam. Of course there is “posing” in certain situations, but even a straight corporate headshot needs to feel REAL and genuine. My goal is to make our session easy and effortless, getting you to move, relax, laugh, breathe, all to capture the real, authentic story of you.
I've had the joy of photographing...
Models and actors, dancers and writers, doctors and attorneys, new brands that soared and those that faded, celebrity faces you know, and others you might still know soon, intimate moments of joy and some of terrible heartache.
The common thread? Everyone wants to look and feel real, to say, "I’m here today." I live for photography that celebrates and marks your life, your joys, your journeys, your beauty, your today.
THESE ARE A FEW OF MY
Favorite Things
PLACE TO VISIT:
Nepal, an incredibly special country that has my heart, where I
co-founded a nonprofit in 2010 that's proudly still building schools today.
MORNING DRINK ORDER:
Coffee with half and half and agave, microwaved seven times before I finish it.
MUST-HAVES
(ASIDE FROM MY FAMILY, MY CAMERA, AND LIP BALM!):
A head full of future projects to dream about (boutique hotel with my husband?!), some kind of travel plans in motion, photos to look at (that's different from camera so i figure i can include it?!)
CURRENTLY LISTENING TO:
Random country music playlists that remind me of growing up in Dallas, Texas.
My happy Place:
In the fresh air at dusk with my family, sipping rosé with my husband, watching our girls collect treasures and build imaginative and amazing fairy houses.
A photograph can feel like a time machine, taking us back to a moment, drumming up sounds, smells, and feelings..almost like a song.
- Jami Saunders
What else am I doing?
Kids of Kathmandu
I co-founded Kids of Kathmandu in 2010. For 5 years we sponsored education, food, water, + medical care for an orphanage of 49 children, many of whom I am still in touch with today.
In response to the 2015 earthquake, we began rebuilding destroyed schools. Now, with a thriving office in Kathmandu and an international team, we have designed and built 10 sustainable/eco conscious schools, serving almost 5,000 students. Three schools are in the works for 2025.
Oja Moon
I formed Oja Moon (Oja means "glow" and "vitality" in Hindi) as a way to encourage local enterprise and contribute towards communities in Nepal. Our pieces are designed in New York City, sustainably dyed in Bodha, Nepal and handmade into our beloved pieces at a Women's Center in Nepal.
The Neighborhood Cottages,
East Hampton
During Covid with a newborn, we purchased this city escape. We spent time renovating, creating a space that not only we enjoy, but for others during summer rentals and offseason too. If you're planning a trip to The Hamptons, check us out! Summer 2024 was full of 5 star reviews! :) and we are looking forward to 2025.
Interior design Services
If you know me, you know how much I love interior design. As a creative, I’ve always had an eye for blending aesthetics with functionality to create inviting spaces. Whether you're starting new or refreshing a space, I’d love to collaborate. Let’s chat and bring your vision to life!
I am ready when you are.
