home

Almost four years ago, I pressed “publish” on my very first blog post. I was so proud! I was so nervous! My business was really starting to grow, and then… crickets!!! Even after posting these gorgeous images to Pinterest… that post sat unseen for years. But… here I am today, having started another business since then… and now I’m merging the two businesses to better serve my people (Hi seniors + brides, I see you!). A lot has changed since this photo shoot… and let’s be honest, this shoot deserves more than 4 years of blog silence. But here’s the thing…I’m not hiding it. I’m re-writing it!!! It’s time for The Traveling Dress 2.0!!! I hope you enjoy this trip down memory lane with Jolie, the most stunning college student (at the time). Because this story deserves to be told.

Back then, I was still learning what it meant to build a personal brand. I had a camera, a dream, and a lot of heart, but not the best strategy. Now, after almost four years of growth (and launching another creative business… Penny the Photo Bus!), I see this shoot for what it really was: A creative turning point!

This shoot was part of a “Traveling Dress” project with photographers across the country. One dress, many visions—and I knew exactly where mine would come to life.

I called up one of my former senior clients, the stunning Jolie, and we took a trip down to the iconic Don Cesar Hotel, right on St. Pete Beach. Yes, that dreamy pink palace! It was freezing, and yes, the wind was absolutely wild!!. But, Jolie showed up like the pro she is. The results??? They are still some of my very favorite photos that I’ve ever taken in my business.

Hotel guests literally stopped mid-walk to watch us. We even heard someone say, “Is she famous?” They were taking photos of Jolie with their cell phones. We were cracking up!! It was just the best and most creative afternoon.

That shoot was so much more than all the pretty pictures that we captured. It was the moment I realized how much I love creating elevated, editorial-inspired sessions for seniors who want to feel beautiful, celebrated, and totally themselves. My photographer heart was so happy!

And now today? I’m currently merging my two businesses: Sandi Michelle Photography and Penny the Photo Bus into one brand that celebrates real beauty and unforgettable moments. From dreamy senior sessions or wedding days at the Don Cesar to wedding receptions with Penny the Photo Bus, I’m here to serve the girls who are living their once-in-a-lifetime moments.

So here it is—my Traveling Dress 2.0 blog, with better words and the same stunning photos. Proof that you can grow, change, and still honor where you started. I am so grateful!!!

Class of 2026:

Are you dreaming of a session that feels like you… bold, beautiful, and anything but basic? Do you want to create a photo session that is completely UNIQUE to YOU??? Let’s chat. You can contact me HERE! Let’s do this! This is your moment!!