Today we’d like to introduce you to Mamona Chaudhry.
Hi Mamona, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
September 11, 2001, Sitting in my office, I witnessed the horrific scene unfold on the screens – planes crashing into the Twin Towers. Trading halted. Chaos erupted. We were left in stunned silence, unsure of what the future held. How would this tragedy reshape our world? How would it change the game for equities traders like myself?
Having gotten married in July of 2001, I knew deep down that even before 9/11, the trading landscape was in flux. This event only solidified my need for a backup plan. Photography, at that time, was just that – a plan on the side, a creative outlet. But as I delved deeper, exploring the power of capturing emotions in a single frame, I became increasingly captivated. It ignited a passion unlike anything I’d known before, a sense of purpose that resonated deeply within my soul.
Trading took a back seat, and I embarked on a journey as a full-time photographer. Crealde School of Art equipped me with a fundamental understanding of the camera, its workings, and the delicate dance of light and timing. In those pre-digital days, I learned to create perfect images without the crutch of post-processing. It was all about raw skill – calculating light, anticipating the moment, and capturing it all with a single click. Photography fostered a heightened sense of presence, an awareness of the fleeting beauty and emotions waiting to be captured by my lens.
This is how I fell in love with photography. It wasn’t just a career shift; it was the beginning of a profound transformation. Photography became my sanctuary, a refuge from the frenetic pace of my former life. It transported me into the heart of people’s most joyous moments – weddings, celebrations, milestones. I became a silent observer, living those moments alongside my clients, sharing their tears, their laughter, and their love. Photography allowed me to truly feel these emotions and translate them into lasting visual stories.
My work is a reflection of that deep emotional connection. It’s raw, authentic, and deeply personal. It’s not just art; it’s an extension of who I am.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, I faced challenges on multiple fronts. Juggling a family with four kids meant travel restrictions, and some clients doubted my capabilities when they saw me pregnant. I had to prove myself constantly, especially to those already established in the wedding photography world.
These obstacles fueled my determination. I actively honed my skills, expanding my knowledge and expertise in photography. Over time, I became more selective about the clients I took on, ensuring a good fit for both parties.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Sona Photography wasn’t always Sona. It began as Novel Photography but after my fourth daughter, the demands of running a successful business while juggling a family became overwhelming. To ensure continued growth, I offered my talented assistant and second shooter, Stephana, a partnership.
South Asian weddings are intricate and vibrant celebrations. Capturing them requires dedication and a keen eye for detail. It’s about much more than photography; it’s about becoming a trusted confidante, a friend, and an extension of the Couple’s family. We work tirelessly to edit and create stunning visuals that bring their vision to life.
In 2020, Stephana embarked on a new chapter, pursuing her own photographic passion. This led me to become the sole owner of Sona Photography, a name that resonates deeply. Sona, meaning “gold”, represents the preciousness of this company and the bonds we build with our clients.
At Sona, we are passionate about nurturing talent. I’ve learned from incredible business owners, and I believe in paying it forward. We actively partner with and mentor new photographers, planners, and cinematographers. Sole success is indeed lonely. The true joy lies in building a community and raising others alongside us.
Our brand identity revolves around capturing the authentic experience of your wedding. We believe in the beauty of real moments, and our post-processing reflects that. We capture the raw essence of your celebration and the love story that unfolds. High-quality work and a selective clientele are hallmarks of our brand. We prioritize chemistry with our clients – it’s about finding the perfect fit. This dedication to authenticity and connection has been core to my vision since day one, and it will continue to guide Sona Photography as we move forward.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I see luck as a combination of chance and the ability to capitalize on it. Life throws unexpected opportunities and challenges our way – some good, some bad. It’s how we navigate them that truly defines our journeys.
I’ve certainly experienced both sides of the luck coin. Unexplained events, both positive and negative, have profoundly shaped me as a person. The key, I’ve found, is to find meaning and growth in all of them. This focus on positivity and hope has been a driving force in my life.
In business, passion is paramount. Loving what you do fuels the fire and helps you persevere. Doubt, however, can be a powerful roadblock. It can come from within or from external sources, but the key is not to let it control you. Staying focused on your goals and eliminating the noise of negativity allows you to transform perceived “bad luck” into opportunity. Through focused action, your dreams manifest, and success becomes a reality.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sonaphotography.com
- Instagram: @sonaphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SonaPhotography
Image Credits
My Personal image collage: @theinspiredstorytellers Wedding Images: @Sonaphotography
