She is Black Culture: Meet Shatoyia Turner

Tell us about the journey that led you to your current creative endeavors?

From a young age, I've always been fascinated by the power of photos to capture and preserve memories. Growing up in a tight-knit community, I saw firsthand how important it was to document our stories, especially as Black people. My journey to becoming a photo booth owner started with a deep love for creative expression.

A great friend of mine works in marketing and she hired a photo booth for one of her events. I tend to be more introverted in social settings, but engaging with the booth helped me come out of my shell. After some research, I traveled from Texas to California in search of the best booth for me. Starting my own photo booth business has been exciting and has had its unique challenges. As a Black female entrepreneur, however, these challenges only fueled my determination. I sought out mentorship, attended business workshops, and connected with other women entrepreneurs who provided invaluable support.

How does your identity as a Black woman influence your creative work? 

My identity as a Black woman deeply influences my creative work. Growing up being raised by my grandmother, I have vivid memories of the excitement I felt whenever we pulled out the old photo albums. Each photo was a portal to the past, and I loved hearing the stories my grandmother would tell about each one.

These experiences instilled in me a profound appreciation for the power of photography to capture and preserve our stories. In my photo booth business, I strive to create spaces where people can celebrate their identities and document their moments in a way that feels authentic and joyful. My background inspires me to ensure that every photo tells a story and captures the essence of the individuals in it, much like the cherished photos from my grandmother’s albums.

Moreover, as a Black woman, I am passionate about representing diverse narratives and making sure everyone feels seen and valued. This drives me to create unique, culturally inclusive props and backgrounds that resonate with a wide range of clients, making each event memorable and meaningful.

Can you describe a project that you are particularly proud of and explain why it holds great significance to you?

One project that I am particularly proud of is my first official booking, which holds great significance to me for several reasons. This client booked my photo booth services for her weekend-long 40th birthday celebration, covering two days of festivities. It was an exciting and nerve-wracking moment because it was right after we had been cleared from COVID restrictions, making it one of the first big events I had the opportunity to work on in person.

The stakes felt incredibly high, as this was my first chance to showcase my business in a significant way. Despite my nerves, I was determined to deliver an exceptional experience. The event went smoothly, and seeing the joy and excitement on the faces of the guests as they used the photo booth was incredibly rewarding.

This project stands out to me because it marked a turning point in my business. Successfully pulling off such a major event right after the challenges of the pandemic filled me with a profound sense of pride and accomplishment. Furthermore, the fact that the client remains loyal to this day is a testament to the impact we made. It reinforced my belief in my business and my ability to create meaningful, joyful experiences for my clients. This project laid the foundation for many more successful events and has been a cornerstone of my journey as a photo booth owner.

What advice would you give to young Black women aspiring to enter your field?

My main advice to young Black women aspiring to enter the photo booth business or any creative field is simple yet powerful: “If you start, keep going."

Also, 
1. Believe in Yourself: Understand that your unique perspective and experiences are valuable. Embrace your identity and let it shine through in your work.

2. Stay Persistent: The path may not always be easy, and you might face obstacles or setbacks. However, persistence is crucial. Keep pushing forward, even when it gets tough.

3. Seek Support and Mentorship: Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, peers, and other professionals who can offer guidance, encouragement, and practical advice. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

4. Embrace Learning: Continuously seek opportunities to learn and grow. Whether through formal education, workshops, or hands-on experience, expanding your skills and knowledge will help you stay ahead.

5. Celebrate Your Wins: Take time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Each success is a step forward and a testament to your hard work and dedication.

6. Be Authentic: Let your authentic self guide your creative work. Authenticity resonates with people and can set you apart in a crowded market.

Remember, starting is the first step, but the key is to keep going, stay true to yourself, and remain resilient. Your journey is unique, and your contributions are essential. Keep pursuing your dreams with passion and determination.

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