Based in New York City, Her Studio is a promotional photography company that focuses on both female-led and small businesses. These wonderful aspects of the company allow for comfort to reign supreme throughout the photoshoots and video shoots with an emphasis placed on all creatives having a voice in the branding process. When I sat down to talk with Stephanie earlier in the week, she summed up what makes Her Studio different with this simple statement: “It comes down to the people, creating a vibe, an environment where people can be expressive. Really just creating a team where everyone’s voices are included.”

This belief process shines through in the work produced in the photoshoots, with a need for both body positivity and sustainability. So whether you’re interested in getting a back story on Her Studio, getting to know Steph more or are simply interested in the marketing side of the fashion industry, keep scrolling for snippets of my conversation with Steph below!

What made you want to work in the fashion industry?

When I asked this question, one generic to most interviews, Stephanie gave an answer that would be considered anything but basic. “My sister,” she said with a small smile, as she began to explain that her older sister wanted to be a fashion designer and was an avid thrifter while Steph was growing up. Along with this it was clear that she has always used fashion to express herself, explaining that she would “go to school in these maximalist outfits from items that were taken from (her) sister and always liked the ‘what are you wearing?! commentary.” Given that she transferred from a private school to a public one, this need to break free from the rigidity of school uniforms makes sense. However, we really owe DECA (a business club in her high school) for the realization that working in the fashion industry could be a career path. “I think it really allowed me to see that I could create ideas on my feet and improvise,” Steph explained as her biggest lesson from the club.

How do you find creatives for your collective?

“The creatives that I started working with originally were friends from FIT,” Stephanie responded to my question, explaining that the creative space at the Fashion Institute of Technology, the fashion school she graduated from, has provided her with a network of individuals that are as driven as she is. However, she went on to explain that she “continued to meet new people and network with them, knowing that every connection was meaningful.” She even created a networking list - a tip I recommend stealing because it’s too good! Still, if you happen to be a creative that’s interested in working with Steph, the best thing to do is reach out to her by filling out the form on Her Studio’s website.

What do you wish people knew about Her Studio?

Touched on briefly in the introduction, I found Stephanie’s answer to this to be one of my biggest takeaways from our chat because I too had fallen under the assumption that Her Studio was a place simply for female creative talents. This, however, is not true. In a few sentences, she disputed this misconception with a wave of her graceful hand, “our foundation is to create a space for all creatives, particularly women and small brands. However, we work with everyone- not only people who identify as women. Her Studio was created to have a fully inclusive space and allow people to embrace their artistic side.”

Do you have any exciting projects coming up that you can share with us?

It’s time to get a bit giddy because Stephanie did spill a little bit on an upcoming launch party! “We’ve teamed up with Zah Zee, along with an independent designer, to create screen-printed designs on hemp underwear!” She burst forth with an excited smile… “The launch is on April 30th and everyone can attend our event- there might even be an added tote bag! Plus it’s really just a great opportunity for people to get to know each other.” If you’re interested in attending this event, all the details are in this link! Goodness knows I wish I was in Brooklyn for it!

I noticed that you focus on plenty of sustainable brands. How does sustainability play a role in your business practices?

Given that the fashion industry is well known for the pollutants that are placed in the atmosphere, scanning through Her Studio’s Instagram and TikTok was a lovely refresh considering that the brands featured all seemed to place sustainability at the forefront of their thought processes. To find these creatives Stephanie follows her gut and “works with clients where we truly align with their values.”

As a young creative in the New York fashion space, do you struggle with having people accept you simply because of your age and gender?

I have to admit, as a young woman myself, this question was asked with a bit of irony. Yet, Stephanie rolled with the slightly invasive question given that constantly being under scrutiny is something many females in male-dominated fields can relate to. “Oh, wow! This has definitely been a major theme throughout my career.” She said with a laugh and reached over to grab a sip of water - you could just tell there were stories.

“It’s just something that always comes up. At least it’s fairly relatable (a small gesture was made towards me as I laughed and nodded). But I think the main theme is really just imposter syndrome- even more now with social media.” She went on to explain that the constant scrutiny of the media and the knowledge that everything is seemingly watched can make you a bit antsy, particularly in larger corporate environments. By creating Her Studio, her goal was to move away from that fear and create a safe and comfortable space for others to grow and develop their artistic talents.

If you have any other questions or would like to get involved with Her Studio, the best way to reach