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Sammy Tunis
Photographer at Sammy Tunis Photography, Actress, Singer
Professional Background
Sammy Tunis is an accomplished freelance photographer, actress, and musician known for her artistic versatility and dedication to her craft. With a specialized focus on portraiture, Sammy has gained recognition for her ability to capture the essence of her subjects through her lens. Her clientele includes a diverse range of professionals, from actors requiring headshots to authors, musicians, therapists, CEOs, and fellow multi-hyphenates. Sammy’s photography style is not just about creating stunning images; it’s about celebrating the individuality of each person she works with.
Sammy believes that having one's photo taken is an act of bravery and radical self-love. This philosophy drives her mission to create images that allow her subjects to feel present, seen, and celebrated. By aiming to capture the best versions of her clients, Sammy ensures that looking at her photography evokes feelings of joy and self-appreciation. Her approach to photography is characterized by creativity and collaboration, making the process enjoyable and stress-free. Before each photo shoot, Sammy provides a comprehensive preparation document designed to help her clients get ready, ensuring they feel equipped and confident. She also encourages collaboration by inviting her clients to share their own inspirations—such as colors, compositions, and gestures—that resonate with them.
In response to the changing dynamics due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sammy adapted her workflow to prioritize safety by conducting outdoor shoots during the fall season of September and October. Her personable approach and ability to connect with her subjects are what set her apart, as she focuses on building relationships that go beyond the camera lens, ultimately creating images that draw others to her clients as well.
Education and Achievements
Sammy's educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree from Oberlin College, where she honed her craft and nurtured her artistic abilities. Her experiences at Oberlin laid the groundwork for her multifaceted career, allowing her to explore her interests in photography, acting, and music.
In addition to her work as a photographer, Sammy has had significant success in the performing arts. She co-founded the band The Lisps in 2005 alongside composer and musician Cesar Alvarez. Over the years, The Lisps have produced four albums, embarked on national tours, and brought several critically acclaimed off-Broadway shows to life. Among their repertoire are notable performances like “Futurity,” a folk musical which Sammy developed and starred in. This production saw numerous iterations across various venues including the American Repertory Theater and the Walker Art Center, culminating in a celebrated New York debut at Soho Rep and Ars Nova. Her outstanding performance earned her a nomination for the Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Musical in 2016.
As an actress, Sammy has participated in a wide range of productions showcasing her versatility and dedication to her art. Some of her recent performances include participation in Cat Miller and Caroline Prugh’s “You Will Never Read This” at The Tank, Pedro Reyes’ “Doomocracy” at Brooklyn Army Terminal, Mia Rovengo’s “Nothin’s Gonna Change My World” presented by New Georges, and Gary Winter’s “Daredevil” at the Brick Theater. Additionally, Sammy made her mark on screen with an appearance in Season 2 of the hit Netflix series “Master of None.”
Achievements
Throughout her dynamic career, Sammy Tunis has effectively combined her talents in photography, acting, and music, earning respect and admiration in all fields. Her innovative approach to portrait photography, coupled with her ability to foster genuine connections with her clients, makes her a sought-after professional. The unique perspective she brings to her subjects ensures that each photograph not only captures their appearance but their spirit as well.
In performance, her contributions to The Lisps and her role in significant theatrical productions highlight her ability to engage audiences and create memorable experiences. Her work has earned critical acclaim, particularly highlighted by the nomination for a Lucille Lortel Award and her participation in impactful off-Broadway shows.
As Sammy Tunis continues to build her portfolio as a photographer and her accolades as an actress, her dedication to promoting self-acceptance through her art remains at the forefront of her mission. With a strong foundation in education and a rich tapestry of experiences, Sammy stands out as a talented multi-hyphenate artist who is committed to celebrating the stories of those around her. Whether through the lens of her camera or the performances she delivers on stage, Sammy Tunis captivates and inspires all who encounter her work.
