South Salem High School senior, Daniel Schafer ‘27 runs his own small photography business. Schafer started taking photos in 2022 when he received a new phone. In 2024, Schafer decided to take his interests to the next level.
“I started taking photos in 2022 when I had just gotten my first iPhone. I was surprised how impressive the camera was compared to my previous phone, an android,” said Schafer “In 2024, I just decided it was time to go big or go home. I purchased an older DSLR Camera model on Ebay and in 2025 I started my business.”
Equipment
Schafer uses a Canon EOS 250D to take his pictures. Schafer has a large collection of items including two camera bodies, three lenses and a film camera that help him run a smooth photography business.
“When I am not using any of my items, they still keep me going. In case I have an emergency I have a backup camera body or a backup lens that I can use,” Schafer said.
Administration Support
Schafer has a handful of teachers that support his photography business, such as Mr. Price and Mr. Hampton. In 2025, South hosted an AVID graduation ceremony, which Schafer was given the opportunity to photograph.
“I do have a handful of teachers that know about my photography journey and have supported me along the way. Although, formally, I have not been given the chance to photoshoot a school event. This is something I hope to do in the future,” Schafer said.
Pricing
While figuring out a way to charge his photo packages, Schafer kept clients in mind.
“Figuring out what to charge and how to package my business was quite easy. I set it up in a quick formula of time, location and the deliverable amount,” Schafer said. “This system helps me stay really organized and also brings transparency to the client on what they are paying for and the service they are receiving.”
After Graduation
Schafer is a year two student in the CTEC Aviation Program. After high school, he plans to start a career in the aviation industry as a medical transport pilot. Due to this, Schafer does not know where his photography business will end up.
“I do not know exactly where my photography will take me. I plan on letting this business run for as long as I am here and as long as I can. Photography has been a journey but it has been an amazing journey,” Schafer said.
Lessons
Schafer is always open to criticism and knows that his work is not always what someone is looking for. As a photographer, Schafer is able to put that past him.
“One major lesson that I have learned throughout my photography business is sometimes people are not going to like your work and that is okay. Sometimes you do not strike gold right away, and that is okay,” Schafer said. “There will always be someone out there that does like your work and does wanna work with you and that is what keeps me going,”
Booking With Schafer
Schafer has an Instagram page dedicated to his photography business where people can directly book with him through Instagram messages, @ds.lrcapts, people can also book through his website www.dslrcapts.com.
