Hello, I'm Sarah Lee
The Heart of Serene Life Photography
I live in Sylacauga, Alabama and I offer services for Portraits, Newborns, Real Estate, Weddings, & Events. I center my business model around family values and affordability to everyone. Through my own personal learning experience, I am skilled at working with young children and children with social, behavioral, or emotional barriers. I strive to provide a calm and inviting environment to facilitate a successful session.
I first became interested in photography the summer my son was born. I could NOT quit snapping pictures of him to save my life! Then came my newborn session...
I was HOOKED! I loved the experience during the session, and when I got my gallery back I was BREATH TAKEN.
Fast forward a few months of maternity leave without pay and accruing hospital bills, we became low on money. I wanted to have more pictures, but just could not afford them. It was such a sad feeling for me. Sure I had my cell phone, but I was missing out on the experience and most importantly me being in the photos.
Come black friday, my sweet husband got me a cheap DSLR camera for my birthday. I was so excited and nervous. I started practicing with some close friends and family, and in the beginning of the next year took some classes to learn my camera. I decided then, that I would push myself to make this a career.
January 2021, Birmingham, AL Botanical Gardens
One of my very first photos during my beginners photography course with no edits. Like WOW!
Based on my own personal experience, my purpose for starting Serene Life Photography LLC is to keep photography affordable. Everyone should be able to invest in at least one session per year without sacrificing the financial stability of their home. Over the years I have seen and sometimes been the person who could not afford much, and I hate the stigma that the industry has created for those who cannot afford prices. I strive to make my business inclusive, so that you feel comfortable and happy with me and my services no matter your status in the community, wealth, or race. You, as my client, are welcomed with open arms to share your experience, concerns, and recommendations without the feeling of being judged or discarded.
October 2021, Hathcock Wedding, Childersburg, AL
My favorite detail shot of all time is actually from my very first wedding I photographed for my friend! WHEW!
Serene Life Photography LLC is thriving and growing! In February 2025 I opened my photography studio just outside of Sylacauga near Hollins, AL. I have also been voted Best of the Coosa Valley 2 years in a row! Future plans include cultivating fields for flower, christmas tree, and other landscape scenery for photos!
During my journey as a photographer my own personal life was changed by my son's autism diagnosis. It was confusing, emotional, and scary for me at first but through the support of many I now have a new perspective and motivation. There are many families like mine, who go without due to their loved one's diagnosis. In 2022, I successfully hosted my first fundraiser for Ady's Army. The following year I hosted another fundraiser for Ady's Army by taking raffle donations. In 2024 I shifted my support to helping Project LifeSaver to assist rescue efforts for individuals at risk.