Influenc-HER Profile Series: Sabrina Vaz-Holder
Updated: Oct 9, 2018
What is your name and what do you do?
Sabrina Vaz-Holder, I am a photographer, co-owner of Medium PR Agency with my husband Quinelle Holder, and producer at Sirius XM Satellite Radio.
Where are you from?
I grew up overseas in various countries (Philippines, Israel, Argentina, Egypt, Thailand) and ended up in Virginia/DC.
What childhood experiences led you to where you are today?
Playing with my dad's cameras, making home movies and taking instant photos.
How did you get started in your current field today? And where did that passion come from? I started doing videos again, professionally in 2011. I filmed an interview with Kendrick Lamar at Hampton University, and started taking photos again for local artists, concerts, and festivals. I've had the passion since I was a child, but it came back after my husband (boyfriend at the time) and I started working together and getting more involved in the music/entertainment industry.
Who do you look at as inspiration to keep going?
My mom (who is also an entrepreneur), my husband and Aviva Klein (photographer based in NYC).
What makes you stand apart from everyone else in your field?
My shooting style (angles, lighting, editing), and the bonds I create with my clients and people/brands I work with.
What tangible piece of advice would you give young girls who want to be where you are?Work hard, stay focused and inspire others. Also, work smarter - not harder.
What do you love most about being a woman?
Being able to multitask and pay attention to detail.
What is your favorite camera to shoot with?
Canon EOS 60D and 7D.
What is your most memorable moment as a photographer?
Personally taking photos for Jadakiss, at his Top 5 Dead or Alive tour, meeting Kendrick Lamar while interviewing him, and having my photos published on SaintHeron.com, vibemag.com, and hypetrak.com
What is your least memorable moment as a photographer?
Shooting for corporate gigs.
What is one thing people would not know about you? I can't say :).
Our fun question: If you could be any animal what would it be and why? A wolf. because they travel in packs. I love connecting with other creatives and feeding off their creative/positive energy.
Do you feel there are any restrictions being a woman in photography? There are only restrictions if you allow it. In this male dominated industry, we will always be mocked, sexually harassed, judged, not taken seriously...but that does not stop me, and I demand (and earn) respect through my work.
What does the future hold for you? I plan to shoot for the cover of FADER, be a well known photographer for other well known music artists and public figures.
Where can people find you?
IG/Twitter: @sabrinafvholder
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sabrinavazholder
Freelance Photographer and Graphic Designer: sabrinavazholder.com
Talk & Programming Associate Producer at SiriusXM