Today we’d like to introduce you to Saige Thomas.
Hi Saige, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
In 2019, I purchased my first real camera with my military bonus, intending to explore the world of food and astrophotography. Like most baby photographers, I turned to Facebook and offered a free photoshoot to anyone willing to be my subject. As luck would have it, Jeanelly Concepcion, a local fashion blogger, took me up on my offer, and we shot a rooftop shoot that would change the course of my photography journey.
During that shoot, Jeanelly introduced me to a local designer who invited me to capture his upcoming fashion show. During that event, I experienced an unexpected newfound love for fashion photography. Determined to expand my knowledge and skills, I contacted various organizations in the city, volunteering to photoshoot any and every upcoming show in exchange for valuable experience. One month later, my dedication paid off when I was offered a position with a local fashion digital media company, thanks to Jeanelly’s recommendation. The opportunity was nothing short of exhilarating, and I eagerly dove into the world of fashion photography.
Unfortunately, the arrival of the Covid pandemic presented significant challenges to my newfound career. Nevertheless, I persevered, adapting to the circumstances and continuing to capture fashion in every possible way, even within the limitations imposed by the pandemic. As time went on, I found myself taking a new path. I ventured into event production and took on the exciting challenge of producing my first fashion show. Despite having no budget, I was overwhelmed by the support and encouragement of my community. Together, we brought the event to life at Brick at Blue Star, showcasing a sustainable approach to fashion despite having no funding.
In that same transformative year, an incredible opportunity—producing Texas Fashion Week crossed my path. Without hesitation, I embraced this chance and dedicated myself to making it a success. I also had the blessing of being published in Vogue for the first time alongside other incredible publications. Since then, my passion for fashion event production and photography has continued to grow, propelling me on a dual journey.
From a simple camera purchase to collaborating with a fashion blogger, seizing photography opportunities, and ultimately discovering my love for fashion show production, my path has been filled with unexpected turns and tremendous growth. I am deeply grateful to the individuals such as Jeanelly Concepcion and Elizabeth Ciarfeo, who have supported and believed in me, propelling me toward a fulfilling career in the dynamic world of fashion.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Fashion show production and fashion photography are not cheap endeavors, as they both have been known to be costly. Gear upgrades, venue costs, and the desire to raise model pay have all been challenges I’ve faced on my journey.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
With the experience and knowledge gained from previous shoots and fashion shows, I decided to start my own fashion production company, Geisa Haus, which consists of Elon Alaniz, Torry Sledge, and Leticia Ogilvie. Together, we produce fashion shows and photo shoots for local designers and boutiques in Texas. We’ve produced over 6 shows, served 1.5K attendees, and created paid jobs for over 50 Texas models in the past year. We currently have 4 fashion shows coming up this year that we cannot wait to execute.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check?
My favorite podcasts are The Run-Through with Vogue, The Business of Fashion Podcast, and the GaryVee Audio Experience. All have contributed to my fashion studies, alongside books such as The Fashion Business Manual by Fashionary.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.geisahaus.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/saigethomasphotography
- Facebook: facebook.com/geisahaus
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saige-thomas-543a40149/
- Twitter: twitter.com/geisahaus
- Other: https://www.vogue.com/photovogue/photographers/311866
Image Credits
All photos by Saige Thomas
