Shea GuntherMaher
Downtown Sac is filled with talented creatives, home to a community of dreamers and entrepreneurs that make this city a unique and wonderful place to live, work and play.
In the second installment of our Behind the Lens series, we sat down with a cultured and witty artist known as @suha.musallam. Let us introduce you to the lady behind the lens…
“Get out of your comfort zone, out of that same daily routine and do something different! Connect with as many fellow photographers/creatives out there and learn a thing or two from them. Lastly, aspire to inspire.” (photo courtesy of @azure_fenix)
Behind the Lens: Suha M.
Hometown: Amman, Jordan
Occupation: Interactive Marketing Coordinator, Thunder Valley Casino Resort
Instagram: @suha.musallam
When and how did your passion for photography begin?
I graduated from the Art Institute of Sacramento with a B.S. in Graphic Design. I’ve always been interested in photography and I had to implement it in some of my graphic design work, but my passion for it grew tremendously in the last 2 years.
What are some of your favorite places to shoot?
My favorite things to shoot are landscape, nature, architecture… basically the outdoors.
Photo courtesy of @suha.musallam
If you could photograph anything, anywhere in the world, what would it be?
This is a tough question to answer, I have so much on my bucket list that I want to photograph! Lately, I’ve been on this Europe itch; I’ve never been there and would love to visit soon to capture the scenery over there.
What are some photography styles you’ve always wanted explore?
At the moment, I’m practicing and trying to grow into night photography and long exposures.
Photo courtesy of @suha.musallam
Where do you see your passion for photography taking you?
Photography will always be a part of my life. I see myself eventually becoming a full time photographer in the future.
How long have you been on Instagram? What are your favorite aspects of the social medium?
I’ve been on Instagram for over 4 years now, but I created a photography dedicated account just over a year ago. I use it to showcase and to express my perspective and passion for photography. It’s also a great place to follow photographers for inspiration and to network with people.
Photo courtesy of @suha.musallam
What’s one thing you’d want your followers to know about you or your photos?
If my photos evoke an emotion, a thought, a smile… if it makes you feel some kind of way, then I succeeded. Fun fact about the captions I use for my photos… most of the time they are lyrics from some of my favorite songs. Music inspires my creative flow.
Photo courtesy of @suha.musallam
Who are the top 3 influencers you follow for creative inspiration?
I follow a lot of photographers for inspirations. The first 3 who came in mind are Jude Allen (@jude_allen), Murad Osmann (@muradosmann), and Chris Burked (@chrisburkard).
What are a few things you love about Sacramento?
The downtown vibes, the weather, trees everywhere and how much diversity we have here in this community.
Photo courtesy of @suha.musallam
What hopes do you have for Sacramento’s future?
For Sacramento to keep growing artistically.
For more stunning photos, follow Suha on Instagram at @suha.musallam
