GET TO KNOW

Sarah McGinnis

STORY TELLER

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CREATIVE

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PHOTOGRAPHER

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EDUCATOR

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STORY TELLER ⸱ CREATIVE ⸱ PHOTOGRAPHER ⸱ EDUCATOR ⸱

hi i’m sarah…

I’m Sarah McGinnis, photographer and owner of Captivated Studios. Based in Western NY, I work with clients across the region and beyond, specializing in weddings, elopements, portraits, branding photography, and social media content creation.

Over the years, my career has grown from capturing intimate moments for couples and families to helping businesses elevate their online presence through intentional storytelling and professional visuals. With my own studio space and a passion for both people and place, I create photography experiences that feel natural, relaxed, and at ease.

I believe great imagery comes from genuine connection. My job is to make you feel seen, supported, and celebrated - whether we’re documenting your wedding day, refreshing your brand visuals, or building content for your business’s social media.

I’m grateful every day to do what I love, and I can’t wait to learn more about your story.

Reach Out

the things I love
(and don’t)…

    • Iced coffee + Chai – I’m all about these year-round, no matter the season.

    • Being outdoors – whether it’s hiking, wildlife photography, sitting by a fire, stargazing, or kayaking, being in nature truly sets my soul on fire.

    • Mountains > Cities – there’s just something about the mountains that feels like home to me.

    • Comfy vibes – leggings, oversized sweatshirts, messy buns…comfort is key in my world!

    • Solo traveling – I cherish every moment spent alone, exploring new places and experiences.

    • The ocean – I’m amazed by it, but it also terrifies me. There’s just something about not knowing what’s beneath me that gives me the chills. 

    • Snakes – I respect them for their role in nature, but my trust issues are real! You never know when they might surprise you.

    • Weak stomach topics – broken bones, cuts, stitches…please, I might faint just thinking about them!

    • Chocolate – I’m all about white chocolate, but milk or dark chocolate? That’s a hard pass – makes me feel super sick.

    • Heights – if you ever catch me near a ledge, just know I’m fighting the urge to panic. I get sweaty, nauseous, and teary-eyes just thinking about it!

    • Margaritas – I know, I know, but tequila and I just don’t get along. And a salted rim? My lips can’t handle it. I’m definitely a whiskey gal instead!

from small town
to big dreams

I’m a small-town girl with a heart full of big dreams. After spending a few unforgettable years living in Boston, MA, I eventually felt the pull back to Western NY - the place that’s always felt like home. The city was exciting and full of growth during my early twenties, but returning home gave me the grounding and clarity I didn’t know I needed.

  • Photography has always been woven into my life, but moving home is where it truly became my purpose. What started as a passion slowly turned into something deeper - a calling to capture stories, emotions, and everyday moments in a way that feels real and meaningful. Coming back to my roots allowed me to finally step into the career I was meant to have.

  • As my business evolved, so did my vision. Captivated Studios became a place where creativity, connection, and community come together. It’s where families gather, couples celebrate, brands show off their personality, and photographers find space to create. My studio isn’t just a workspace - it’s a reflection of everything I love about storytelling, people, and the heart of small towns.

  • Today, my work expands far beyond traditional photography. I travel for elopements and destination sessions, work with small businesses to create intentional content, and manage social media in a way that helps brands show up with confidence and consistency.

    Whether I’m behind the camera, crafting content, or leading a workshop, my goal is simple: help people feel seen, supported, and celebrated in every season of their story.