Sexism and Becoming Who You Are - Sarah Dunn
"Just be yourself"
“Just be yourself.”
I had the pleasure of talking with Sarah Dunn, who has captured some of Hollywood’s biggest stars:
• Sarah’s path shifted from aspiring film director to renowned photographer, with a career that’s evolved alongside major productions.
• Sarah has navigated industry challenges, including sexism, and believes in the power of networking and perseverance.
• The iconic Spielberg Portfolio marked a pivotal moment, proving that creativity and authenticity pave the way to success.
“If you are determined enough, you will find a way.”
(uncut and unedited)
What drew you to pursue a photography career, and how has your journey evolved since the beginning?
I wanted to be a film director but found photography to be a better fit. I still shoot the same way I always have but the productions have gotten bigger.
What have been the biggest challenges in the photographic industry you have faced, and how did you overcome them?
Sexism by far. Working as a female in a male dominated industry. I have had to push for jobs my whole career. Many of the best portrait photographers are women and I believe it is because they have had to really believe in their work to succeed.
What realities should an aspiring photographer or someone looking for a career in the entertainment industry expect to face?
It’s a tough gig for anyone, but you must think of it as just a job. If you are determined enough, you will find a way.
How important is networking in evolving a career?
Networking is the most important thing of all. Without it, there is no work. Work does not come to you, you need to go out and find it.
What does the future of photography and the entertainment industry have coming in the wake of AI?
AI has been around longer than people think. I do not think its something to be scared of as you still need the interaction with your subjects. A computer can only take what information it has. It cannot make something out of nothing.
What are the most memorable projects you have undertaken and how have they shaped your career and/or photographic intuitions?
Probably the Spielberg Portfolio which was made up of actors from some of the most well known and best films according to Steven Spielberg . It was a real honour to do. When Spielberg asks, people do not refuse. It really gave my career a boost.
What are the best resources for someone looking to expand their knowledge and skills within the entertainment industry?
First hand experience is always best. Meeting with people that work in the industry really helps. Having a knowledge of the industry through film and magazines is important. Not an easy one to answer.
How do you balance the creative and business aspects of photography?
Never follow the money. Be creative and the money will follow. And then get an accountant to do the business side of things.
How much does location play into opportunity for creatives?
These days location is not so important as we have the internet, zoom etc and the ease of travel. You do not need to live in New York to shoot in NY. With my work I always have to travel to the shoot. They rarely come to me.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to venture into the world of entertainment?
Just be yourself.
Become who you are.
I found myself listening to Modern Wisdom, a podcast I listen to on the regular, this episode in particular featured Robert Greene the author of The 48 Laws Of Power and many other fab books.
One topic the two discussed was the idea that if you are replaceable you will be replaced. Queen B tells us “I could have another you in a minute Matter of fact, he’ll be here in a minute, baby” To avoid this Greene suggests you become irreplaceable.
Greene’s point is that at your core you are irreplaceable, there is no one like you. Perhaps you have a proclivity for horror films and are a massive fan of Miley Cirus, you may also be an avid chess player and an excellent home cook. Sure, many people like those things but it’s the combination that makes you the anomaly.
“Always stick to what makes you weird, odd, strange, different. That's your source of power.”
Nietzsche suggests that the greatest source of freedom is to be free of shame, and to be free of shame you must understand yourself and never play a role to fit in with others. To be free of shame is to accept that you are who you are. Truly being yourself is understanding your own niche, thus making you one of a kind and irreplaceable.
“In a little while you too will close your eyes, and soon there will be others mourning the man who buries you” Marcus Aurelius
“Friendly reminder that in three generations everyone who knew us will be dead. Including the people whose opinions stopped you from doing what you wanted all along.” Alex Hormozi
(I don’t mean to take a morbid turn, but sometimes it’s necessary to have perspective)
"What other people think of me is none of my business.” - Eleanor Roosevelt
This is why I think this:
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to venture into the world of entertainment?
Just be yourself.
Is about the greatest advice you can receive.
Cheers to that 🍻