In this new series we’ll be introducing you to some of the Pangea Dreams Retreat hosts, so you can get to know them and how they make our retreats special! In this post we are getting to know Sam Katz, one of our retreat photographers! You can also learn more about Sam by following her on Instagram and on her website!
Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do!
I was born in Buenos Aires Argentina, a city I love more than words, and still call home even though I haven’t lived there in 14 years. I have been living in Canada for 14 years, and traveling the world for about ten. I visited my 50th country just three days before my 30th birthday last year (that was my goal) and since, I’ve been focusing on not so much quantity of countries, but the experience of my trips. Ive been a professional photographer for 9 years. I shoot all kinds of work, from commercial, to fashion, and portraiture. I also studied film in University many years ago (before I even went into photography) and in the last year I decided to start getting back into it. I love my job, my passion is telling stories through images and video. I am lucky to have been a freelancer full time for the last 6 years. being my own boss is the best thing ever, and it gives me the freedom to travel and do what I love!
How did you get started with photography and social media?
It kinda just happened. As I mentioned, I’ve been a photographer for 9 years. I started to realize the potential that social media had for me to reach new client and work opportunities about two years ago. It took me a whole year to start curating my Instagram (I shoot so much, so many different things, I couldn’t figure out how to chose what to show), and then once I did, I started shooting a certain way and curating to reach the audiences I wanted. so long story short, I was doing photography way before I was doing social media. Photography itself started for me after my first trip to Europe in 2007, I was already interested in film, and decided to buy a camera after I loved capturing my moments while traveling.
What’s your favourite part of the Pangea Dreams retreats?
The connection with other empowering women. Some entrepreneurs, some creatives, some travelers, some about to be all of those. Spending a week inspiring and being inspired by amazing women is the most uplifting experience ever. The retreats aren’t just about learning marketing and photography skills, the yoga, the meditation, the activities, and the daily practices are what adds so much to the experience. And the friends you make… I’ve already met up with two different alumni on my travels!
What is your number 1 tip for someone hoping to do what you do?
It’s hard to put into one word what I do, but I guess if you can dream it, you can live it. Be as clear as you can with your goals, and then don’t let society or rules dictate what you think can or cannot be done. I made a lifestyle that many don’t understand or think it’s impossible or there is a catch, I just found a way to make it work, that’s all! Everyone has its own journey, make your own path!
What has been your favourite part of your journey so far?
This one is a hard question! I think the surprise and freedom of my last two years. I’ve travelled non-stop and managed to continue my business running in Canada around my crazy schedule. I love that I am inspiring people to chase their dreams, and I love that underneath it all is still photography, which is my biggest passion.
Why do you think someone should join a retreat?
So many reasons. For those who want to be part of a community of travel and empowering women, it’s not just the girls you meet on the retreat, it’s the whole Pangea family! Someone who wants to learn some new skills in photography and social media marketing. This is the future, and it can be applied to so many different jobs, not just blogging or influencing. It’s a great excuse to go away for a week, somewhere beautiful, with amazing people, and kickstart your next plan!
What workshops do you teach on the retreats?
I teach the photography workshops, and sometimes also the Lightroom (editing) workshop. I am also the official photographer, so I make sure you get amazing shots on the trip!
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