A little Bit About SMK Studios...and who is behind it all!

Hello and Welcome to my new website!!

My name is Sarah and I am the owner, manager, primary photographer and all rounded crazy person that runs SMK Studios at Sarah Kilduff Photography.

As a second generation portraiture photographer coming out of my family I feel like I am holding onto the traditional aspects of photography and attempting to integrate those into the new digital era of madness that is PS/lightroom and general online social media life. I feel like writing a little blog on my website keeps people in the loop of my work and gives people the opportunity to see the “real” side of me!

So who am I, and more importantly, why should I be your primary photographer for all of your portraiture needs?

Well, I am a registered nurse/paramedic who has spent the last 10 years involved in the emergency life of healthcare and have seen it from every angle. All the while…. photography was my passion. My friends will tell you that the only reason any of them have recollection of school events or college outings is because I always had my point and shoot with me.. “Sarah Kilduff has tagged you in 102 pictures..” *SIGH..* Hey, they all had and still have.. amazing profile pictures because of it!!

Being real for a moment, I grew up watching my parents run a successful wedding and portrait business and studio in Ballinalsoe my entire life. I followed my Dad around to weddings acting like his little assistant..mostly just minding his equipment and admiring all the pretty things that encapsulated this couple’s big day. As I grew older, I stopped watching the couple…and started watching my father. Anyone who knows my family will tell you that both of my parents are go getters, inspirational business minded individuals. I watched my father run a wedding like clockwork, never missing a trick, and always pulling it out of the bag no matter who knocked over that very expensive loaded tripod, or what child hugged the bride with sticky fingers. In turn, every Saturday I got to watch my mother run the office side of the business, dealing with interesting customers from all walks of life, and she took each one in her stride as if they were the very first person to walk in that door that day. The entire process amazed me, and part of me always knew that no matter what avenue I took in life….I would possibly end up in a similar situation. I went on to study photography…at the same time as my other Degree, (busy fool, - yes I know) and ended up with a Diploma in Photography, which has expanded to many more certificates including studies in advanced portraiture, wedding photography, business, branding, marketing and social media and so on…!!

So fast forward a few years, and here I am… getting a little older, and wiser hopefully. I am still working in emergency medical assistance as an emergency nurse for a medical evacuation company, I have the most amazing partner in crime - John, who supports me at every turn and hurdle, * see image of hunk attached to post*, I have the cutest little dachshund/terrier cross Rusty who my regular followers will know, - is my baby, and I am getting my own business officially off the ground and road worthy.- not a bad year!!

My experience from the family business gives me that extra edge in customer care, and my healthcare background provides me with the necessary skills to prevent / assist with any emergency situation, especially when dealing with newborns, children and large crowds in general. I feel these attributes are important, especially when someone i.e, ‘YOU ‘ has the difficult choice of picking a photographer who is going to be suitable to you cause. (I am trying to make it easier for you)

I have had the pleasure of photographing a lot of beautiful clients throughout the last few years and I thank each and every one of them for their custom. I have had the pleasure of working with some amazing models, MUA’s, stylists, etc throughout the industry and I look forward to working with many many more!! I have very graciously managed to get published both on a national and international forum for my past portraiture and I hope to add to those records over the next year! I am also working towards applying for my Licentiateship with IPPVA so it is definitely going to be a busy year!

I have a fully insured professionally lit photography studio based in Ballinasloe (across from Brewery Lane) which is open by appointment currently as there is a lot of construction, painting and plans in the work- but watch this space!!

For anyone who wishes to ask me any questions in relation to anything and all things photography, - I am 90% of the time virtually available, - unless I drop a travel notice - so do not be afraid to get in touch. Office appointments are available but must be booked up to a week in advance where possible!!

Other than that, thanks for taking a moment to read and we look forward to meeting you in the future!!

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