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Branding That Pays: How Professional Photos Bring More Than Just Smiles

Sara McMillian • September 6, 2025

Discover the power of premium branding photo session in Hutchinson, KS with Sara McMillian Photography—strategic brand photography that drives real business results.

The Power of Brand Photography for Local Businesses

A professional photoshoot isn’t just about getting a few headshots—it’s about shaping how people see your business. Here in Hutchinson and surrounding areas like McPherson, Newton, and Hesston, clients want more than stiff, cookie-cutter portraits. They want to connect with the real you. When your brand photography reflects your personality and values, it builds trust and drives real results. That’s why working with Sara McMillian Photography is more than a photo session—it’s a business investment that pays off.

Why DIY Doesn’t Cut It

We’ve all tried snapping our own photos or relying on outdated headshots. The problem? Inconsistent visuals and off-brand messaging that leave potential clients unsure about your professionalism. While you’re holding back, competitors with polished, intentional images are already making stronger first impressions and winning new clients.

The ROI of Professional Brand Photography

Here’s what’s included in a full brand photography package:

A strategy call to align your photos with your business goals and audience (Value : $200)
A detailed shot list that covers everything from headshots to lifestyle images (Value : $400)
A full-day session with wardrobe changes and location variety for months of fresh content (Value : $1,000)
Professional editing for a consistent, premium look (Value : $600)
High-resolution images with full rights for web, social, print, and advertising (Value : $300)
A website review and Google Business Profile guidance to make sure your images work hard for you (Value : $200)

Total Value : $2700. Your Investment : $1200

One local success story: Jennifer, a financial advisor in Hutchinson, booked a premium shoot. Not long after updating her website and LinkedIn, she signed a high-value client who admitted her professional presence online gave them confidence to reach out.

Lasting Impressions That Build Trust

Strong visuals don’t just look good—they create recognition. In a competitive market, high-quality, authentic images make your brand memorable and trustworthy. They show clients you’re serious about your business, while also letting your personality shine through.

Making the Most of Your Brand Shoot

Want to get the best return on your investment?

Come prepared with your goals and brand story
Choose wardrobe and locations that reflect your personality and business style
Reuse your images everywhere: website, social media, email campaigns, print materials, and especially your Google Business Profile for local visibility

Turning Photos Into Profit

Professional images work overtime for your marketing. They grab attention, increase engagement, and make your business stand out online. When you’re consistent across platforms, you build a presence that not only attracts new clients but keeps them coming back.

Why Local Matters

What sets Sara McMillian Photography apart is the mix of professional photography, professional headshots, brand strategy, and local knowledge. Because your images are crafted with Hutchinson clients in mind, they connect more deeply. And often, the investment pays for itself with just one new client.

Ready to Elevate Your Brand?

If you’re ready to take your Hutchinson business to the next level, a brand photoshoot is one of the smartest investments you can make. Schedule your consultation with Sara McMillian Photography and start creating visuals that inspire confidence, build trust, and drive growth.

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The Power of Personal Branding Photos vs Headshots: Elevate Your Online Presence and Stand Out

By Sara McMillian • March 15, 2025

Discover whether branding photos or headshots are right for your business. Learn the key differences, benefits, and how personal branding photography can help Hutchinson, KS entrepreneurs stand out online.

Confidently Prepare for Your Brand Photoshoot : Your Guide to Photos That Grow Your Business

By Sara McMillian • November 26, 2024

Nervous about your Brand photoshoot? Sara McMillan Photography in Hutchinson, KS helps you look confident, connect with clients, and grow your business

Let’s talk!

Have a question or comment?

Let me know.

LET'S CONNECT HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

Email:

sara@saramcmillian.com

You can also find me here:

Privacy & Terms

What a Day at @yoderheritageday! This is the most incredible small-town celebration in Yoder, Kansas! Thousands descended on this tiny Amish community for authentic heritage fun. 6 AM pancake breakfast Horse-drawn parade down Main Street Buggy races & draft horse demos Fireworks finale Those magnificent teams of draft horses clip-clopping down Main Street? Pure magic. This isn't some tourist trap - it's a real community sharing their heritage. Shoutout to @dbextreme for amazing sound all day! 🎵 Mark your calendars for next year: August 22, 2026 - fourth Saturday in August as always. Some experiences can't be captured in photos - they have to be lived! Have you been to Yoder Heritage Day? Share your memories below! 👇 Picture link in comments! I just kindly ask that you share my name when you use them on social media. Sharing is caring!

Saturday was cloudy and I drove an hour each way to hang out with this precious family but it was worth every mile and minute. We got rained on at the end but we moved to the porch to finish the session 🤗 I was a little late, my battery / camera acted up and my brain was serving me all kinds of lies about things that are lies. Thoughts that aren’t true. Do you have a voice in your head? My goes on and on all day long and until I learned it is what it is “inner critic” “soundtrack” I always felt not enough. So if you are out there and you hear it too, it’s ok! You are enough. Keep putting good in the world. It comes back 100 x’s! Need fun fall family photos? I can help. Shoot me a DM or tag a friend who values moments over poses. We pose. But then we play!

September reality check: Are your brand photos working FOR you or AGAINST you? If you're still using phone selfies for your professional presence, you're literally leaving money on the table. Clients hire people who look successful, and that starts with professional imagery. Fall = perfect branding photo season. Don't head into Q4 with images that make you blend in instead of stand out. Book now while my calendar has openings! DM me, let's make your brand look as good as your work. Shout out to @ashley_weve . Her job is media and she did such a good job the other night playing games, running through the fields and pausing on life to exist in the photo with her family! I have so many photos to share! I will come back here this week and share all the fun from the weekend at @kansasmaze ! P.S. I think the Kansas Maze may be open a few more days! Keep an eye on their social media

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month 💛 This month holds special meaning for our family, my son, Jack (10), is one year cancer-free. What a journey it's been. Every year, over 15,000 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with cancer. Behind each statistic is a brave child, a family forever changed, and a community that becomes your lifeline. We've lived this reality, and we know firsthand the fear, the hope, the sleepless nights, and the incredible strength these young fighters possess. This month, we honor every child currently battling cancer, remember those we've lost too soon, and celebrate the survivors—like my son—who show us what true courage looks like. We're also grateful for the families walking this path, the medical teams who become like family, and the researchers working for better tomorrows. Childhood cancer research receives less than 4% of federal cancer research funding, yet these young warriors face challenges that adult treatments can't always address. Every donation, every shared story, and every moment of awareness makes a difference. From our family to yours: never underestimate the power of hope, community, and a child's incredible spirit. These kids deserve our attention, our support, and our unwavering belief in brighter days ahead.

@buhlermaze tonight!

People always laugh when I say this, but my dream job is basically writing quote bubbles. You know ,those little soundbites that make you stop scrolling, nod, and think, “Yep, that’s me.” Here’s the thing: brands that connect don’t talk in long paragraphs. They talk in soundbites. Phrases your audience already uses. Words they’d screenshot. Lines they’d wear on a T-shirt. That’s why I pay attention to the words people actually say, in consults, in DMs, even in offhand comments. Those little sparks? They’re gold. And yes, I know there’s AI now. Duh, it saves me so much time EVERY DAY! But here’s the truth: AI can’t overhear the way your client scrunches her nose when she says, “I just feel invisible online.” It can’t catch the emotion behind the words. It can’t teach with empathy. That’s where I come in. My job is to listen so closely that you feel like I crawled into your head and finally put words to what you’ve been trying to say. And if you need help turning those words into something real? I ghostwrite content and help you plan strategy that actually sounds like you. Want to know more? DM me. Let’s get you visible and standing out. Shoutout to @sws_summit to letting me be a tiny part of your story. P.S. My camera has a way of getting me into rooms I didn’t even know I needed to be in. As @loriharder says, be audacious. Yes, I invited myself into this room… and I’m so glad I did.) Have an event and need a photographer? Just sayin’. I truly love that God gave me this gift.

If you're a local business owner, coach, or creative ready to level up your brand, this is your sign! Whether you're updating your headshots, launching something new, or just want to look as professional as you feel, I’ve got you covered. Hutchinson business brand photos CEO headshots with personality Joyful personal brand photography that feels like you My branding sessions are fun, confidence-boosting, and totally tailored to your vibe. Let’s show your audience the face behind the business! Booking September & October sessions now 📍Hutchinson, Kansas DM me “BRAND” for info

Sometimes the most random conversations change how you see everything. This morning in Hutchinson, I met Mindy. @mindysmurals She has driven in from Junction City and was standing on the ground with an airbrush in hand, transforming the side of our Chamber of Commerce building into something vibrant and new. When we started chatting (because that’s what we do in Kansas 😊), she told me her Facebook got hacked and that social media just feels “too time-consuming.” But here’s the thing, while she’s worried about getting back online, she’s already doing something far more powerful. She’s creating something that will make people smile every single day and for YEARS to come! She’s literally painting LIFE on our walls. And it hit me: when the online world feels overwhelming, maybe that’s the moment to go be social in the real world instead. In our short conversation, I also learned that Mindy runs her painting business with her daughter, traveling to different communities to leave her mark. She’s even been selected as a featured artist in Salina’s big art festival this September, where creators from around the world gather. Mindy, thank you for blessing Hutchinson. Your art is saying the most beautiful things about community, generosity, and showing up for strangers. This is what loving your neighbor looks like.

Y’all… what a day! I didn’t just get to photograph a festival today. I got to witness living heritage. Generations of tradition came alive right on Main Street. Draft horses pulling strong, buggy races flying by, vendors sharing their craft, parade magic rolling through and in every corner, the heartbeat of this little town showing the world what authentic community really looks like. My lens caught the food, the faces, the fun. But more than that, it captured the spirit. The way faith communities come together. The pride in preserving what matters. The joy of belonging to a place that feels like home. Even if its once a year on this 4th Saturday in August tradition. These aren’t just photos from today. They’re pieces of Yoder’s legacy and images families will look back on years from now, remembering not just how it looked, but how it felt to be part of something beautiful. Yoder, you filled my soul today. Thank you for trusting me to tell your story, to hold onto these moments, and to honor what makes this community extraordinary. Always Chasing Joy Friends, Sara McMillian

As a photographer, I’ve learned that legacy lives in the smallest moments. I watched Hal and Ann, 2025 Wall of Honor inductees for @ksfairfoundation slow down, relax, and simply enjoy their family. Soaking in days that always feel too short. Out in the pasture, the kids climbed onto a saddled footrest, their laughter rising against the backdrop of fields that tell a deeper story: a family rooted in land and livestock. Inside and out, I captured giggles, curious eyes, and gentle traditions unfolding, proof that legacy isn’t just built in big arenas, but in everyday togetherness. Hal and Ann’s decades of devotion to the @kansasstatefair, cattle exhibitions, Grand Drive, Boots & Bling, the 1861 Club, and Hats & Horses, now live on in the next generation through simple joys and a shared love of home. Because that’s what legacy is: work hard, cherish the fleeting, and hold tight to the ones you love most. When I look at these images, I see servant leadership woven into joy. The kind of legacy that doesn’t just live in plaques, but in memories made under ever-changing skies. 1861 Club Kansas State Fair Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation

Ten years. A whole decade of this beautiful, complicated, heart-expanding journey of being his mom. And as fast as these ten years went, I know the next ten will go even faster. My dad wrote in my 30th birthday card (the year my mom died) Happy 30th birthday, I hope your next 30 years don’t go by as fast as mine did. I keep trying to hold onto time, to slow it down, but it slips through my fingers like water. Jack is 10, Eli is 8 (how is that even possible?), and I’m watching childhood slip away in real time. The pride I feel watching them grow is overwhelming. Who they’re becoming, how they handle things, break things, their personalities blooming into something so uniquely them. Jack, who fought so hard these past 3 years, now strong and resilient in ways that take my breath away. Eli, growing right alongside him. He has the most tender precious heart. A little giver. They are becoming these incredible little humans, and I get to witness it all. But today, if I’m being honest, I’m just feeling all of it. The overwhelming love for these boys who made me a mom. The disbelief that time moves this relentlessly forward. The bittersweetness of watching them grow into who they’re meant to be. Saturday Jack will be 10. Ten years since I became a mom. Ten years of learning and growing and loving these boys more than I knew was possible. I’m here. I’m present. I’m witnessing every moment of this beautiful, fleeting childhood. And that feels like everything today. Happy almost-birthday, Jack. You made me a mom ten years ago, and I’m still figuring out how to do this thing called life, but I’m so grateful it’s with you. Shoutout: Angela Merchant Photography Megan Hein Photography Lois Elaine Photographie for all the beautiful memories we have hanging in our home! And Kari Heimerman for being the best mentor and friend in my world.

Right now is the least known you will ever be. So why are you trying to make it perfect for the least amount of people? I see too many brilliant professionals stuck in the “perfection trap” when it comes to building their personal brand. They wait for: → The perfect headshot → The perfect bio → The perfect first post → The perfect strategy Meanwhile, their network stays small. Their opportunities remain limited. Their voice goes unheard. Here’s the truth: Your personal brand isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being authentic and consistent. Every day you wait is another day someone else is building the relationships and reputation you could be developing. START TODAY: Share one insight from your work experience Comment meaningfully on posts in your industry Update your headline to reflect your current value Connect with 3 people in your field Your future self will thank you for starting imperfectly today rather than waiting for a perfect tomorrow that never comes. The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now. What’s stopping you from sharing your first authentic post today? Shout out @omareltakrori -his content / personal brand class fire was last week! And @rootedmicroschoolks you have my heart! Ty for sharing your flowers!

The Real Reason You Haven't Booked Brand Photos Yet... "I don't know what I'd do with 60 photos." I hear this objection almost daily. But here's what's really happening underneath that statement: You're afraid of being seen. Those 60 photos represent 60 opportunities to show up authentically in your business. And that feels vulnerable as heck. The phone camera feels safe. It's quick, controllable, deletable. You can hide behind the low quality and tell yourself "it's just temporary until I get real photos done." But months turn into years of "temporary" content. Meanwhile, your competitors are booking the sessions. They're showing up confidently across every platform while you're still using that same selfie from 2022. Here's the psychology shift: Those 60 photos aren't just images, they're permission slips. Permission to take up space online. Permission to charge premium prices. Permission to be seen as the expert you are. Every time you post professional brand photos, you're sending a subconscious message: To your audience: "I'm established and trustworthy" To yourself: "I belong in this industry" To your bank account: "I'm worth premium pricing" The compound effect is real: Better photos → More confidence showing up → More visibility → More clients → More revenue → More confidence → Better business decisions It starts with 60 photos. The question isn't "What will I do with all these photos?" The question is: "What could my business become if I stopped hiding? Ready to stop playing small? Brand photo sessions are booking NOW! DM me "READY" and let's get you seen.

Just another evening of Mini Sessions in Kansas we are gonna play in the zinnia fields and have a fun night

If the thought of being in front of the camera makes your stomach flip, you’re not alone. Most of my clients start there — unsure how to show up without feeling awkward, staged, or “too much.” Here’s the truth: you don’t need to feel ready, you just need the right guidance to help you relax, be yourself, and let your guard down. That’s exactly what we’ll do together in your session. The camera won’t just capture your face -!it will capture your confidence. And we’ll get there, step by step. Let’s make this the moment you finally stop hiding and start showing up. If you are looking how to add a grant into your small business @dr.sarahddiamond is a consultant for grants and can help you with the beliefs and overwhelm that is bringing you! Thanks for letting me document your trip, Sarah! @okstate Women of Ag!

Hey Business Owners! The @kansasstatefair is coming to town! Are you looking to be seen? Like… Google-seen? Or are you tired of the same copy-paste Facebook captions stuffed with emojis, zero heart, and nothing that makes people stop scrolling? Here’s the truth: it’s not about posting more. It’s about posting what actually matters. Words that feel like you, connect with them, and move your brand from “meh” to memorable. That’s where I come in. I ghostwrite for brands and professionals who are ready to sound as good online as they are in real life. I find your voice, sharpen your story, and write so your audience actually listens and remembers. Because your message deserves more than filler content. It deserves to be felt. Want your posts to get read, shared, and ranked? Send me a email and let’s make your content work as hard as you do. DM me for info!

@allhatnocadillac from Austin brought that authentic Texas energy that kept the dance floor packed all night long at @bootsnbling_kff ! Comment Link for the link on Instagram or head over to facebook if you have one of those things! Your support allows me to keep my nonprofit rates affordable - it's all about giving back!

All Hat No Cadillac brought the country heat last night! Walking the fairgrounds, it’s easy to see all the work that needs doing - peeling paint, loose boards, buildings needing updates. But that’s exactly why our Fair Foundation exists. The real magic happens during our annual dinner and auction. Farmers and teachers, retirees and young entrepreneurs come together. People who wave at the grocery store but rarely get to really talk. We say we’re raising money to fix buildings, but really we’re rebuilding community one conversation at a time. It takes months of quiet work by volunteers who’ll never be individually thanked. But the thanks come in different forms: a child’s smile petting their first goat, a teenager’s pride in their blue ribbon, the satisfaction of preserving something precious. The Foundation’s work continues - mostly invisible, entirely essential, deeply rooted in love for the @kansasstatefair @bootsnbling_kff .

God knows when your soul needs a break. As my friend Quinn says, your OS needs a power off and recharge. I invited myself on a getaway with Diamond Grants and Consulting for a road trip to Edmond, Oklahoma for Women of Ag with OSU extension. What a fun 2 days! We took some video, failed at recording, but hey, my dad always said, if you never make mistakes, you aren't learning anything new! The day ended with an AI class. AI isn't bad - it's a tool that can give you HOURS back when used right! The best was Andrea's student who used it to kindly break up with a boy. He thanked her for being thoughtful and "not ghosting" him. If you were there, it was really funny! Key Takeaways: Social media balance is key - continuous learning, accountability, surround yourself with challenging leaders Build community - maintain living roots, be a bridge builder, integrate don't isolate Leadership - know your values, tell your "why," help employees buy into purpose, compensate well Business - focus on depth of impact. "Regeneration isn't what we sell, it's how we show up" If your soul needs a hug, find Sarah at Diamond Grants - she'll give your soul a reboot. Ps. Wednesday was full of emotions waiting for little Jack's blood work. We're proud to report: ONE YEAR CANCER FREE! Jack turns TEN August 23rd! Cards welcome for both: Jack Eddie McMillian 16 S. Rayl Rd Burrton, KS 67020 Thank you all for loving us through our hardest times and helping us stay hospital DEBT FREE through cancer treatment! Hit reply - tell me how you use AI daily. Want help getting 5 hours back weekly? Let me know! When used for good, AI magnifies your impact. TELL ME in comments - I really want to know!

Creating content isn’t just about aesthetics - it’s about amplifying the real story behind the brand. I love helping people show up in a way that feels like them -bold, clear, and unmistakably true. Whether it’s through a photo, a video, or a few words… Your story deserves to stand out. Let’s make it visible. Want to learn about grants @diamondgrants.consulting is your gal! #ContentWithHeart #StoryDrivenStrategy #BrandStorytelling #AuthenticContent #ContentCreatorLife #PersonalBranding #YouAreTheBrand

That quote, in youth we learn, in age we understand. Losing my mom at 30 taught me to love deeper. Embrace my surroundings and to always let those I care deeply about, know. To have gratitude for where I am in my story, and for knowing I’m on time and not late. I mean, we often want more of what we don’t have. The past three years of being in a valley and to keep investing in coaches and mentors even when it was a stretch. @hormozi says to invest in the “SandME’ and that will have a great return for your dividens. Capturing family stories is a gift for a family who gets to be the subject. But it is a precious gift from my soul to the world. Everything else fades away. But these moments. They matter. And I’m here to help you keep what part of your story you’re living. You can’t go back and get a new start, but you can start again, be new, and make a brand new ending. (I’m probably saying that backwards). I hear @wordswithruss as I type this. He’s my favorite for spoken stories. I’m working on becoming her. The girl who speaks her story. I found Adam’s insta in February and immediately joined his monthly group. I have had too much going on to make myself be intentional of learning his ways. But that’s the funny thing about time. We are a slave to our time and waste much of it that we are given, scrolling, buying, longing for what we don’t have. What if we all accepted the thought, I am where I am supposed to be and I honor this time that I have. This precious family was the first to say yes when I moved to town 12 years ago. What a joy it is to see them grow. Hug your mom for me today or call her. Ps listen to the words of this audio! I get goosebumps thinking how much I miss my mother’s laughter, hugs and voice. ❤️ Always chasing joy, ❤️ Sara

If you’re a ChatGPT user and a business owner, here’s a fun prompt to try: “Based on what I’ve shared with you, how do you think my About Me page supports my personal brand, [Your Name]?” Write your About page like you’re having a real conversation. Make it easy for both humans and AI to understand. That means clear headings, simple language, and maybe even a little FAQ section. Not into geeking out over this stuff? Totally fine—keep scrolling. But if you do want to start showing up in AI results and organic search, those little tweaks matter. Fast-loading pages, strong links, helpful titles—they all help search engines (and smart bots) surface your content in the right places. Also, huge shoutout to Brian Davis for arranging a fun shoot with Interfaith Housing! I love learning about and working with local organizations. P.S. Know a fellow entrepreneur or creative whose photos don’t quite match their magic? Tag them. Let’s help them stop blending in. Want to help someone step into brighter imagery? Share this post with them—and let’s get them booked.

10‑Minute Pop‑Up Portraits at Zinnia Field — $200 to Book Join us Saturday, August 2, 2025 at Zinnia Field in Haven , KS for a quick and colorful mini-session open to high school seniors or small family groups. What’s included: 10‑minute session at Zinnia Field One outfit, one person or small family group 10 fully edited high‑resolution images, delivered via digital gallery Fast, fun experience with minimal setup Spots are limited—book your time slot now: https://app.iris-works.com/customer/booking/7ebacc45-32d4-4d9b-a6a1-bf93e4c7220a You'll be shooting in great evening light, and receive your full gallery within 7 days. More info: Zinnia Field is a private flower field in Haven, KS—bright and vibrant backdrop Maximum of 8 people for family groups; seniors typically book solo One outfit only—keeps it short and efficient Deposit is non‑refundable, rescheduling allowed once with at least 48 hours’ notice Reserve your spot today—the perfect way to capture joyful portraits in minimal time with beautiful results. Please be 15 min early in case you get lost!

Let’s chat, Money. You’ve been the villain, the goal, the ghost. We chase you. We fear you. We compare our worth to how close we are to you. But here’s the real question for 2025 and beyond: How can we build a future if no one gives us the tools to succeed? We grow up with “set points.” Go to school. Get good grades. Pick a job that sounds legit. Doctor. Lawyer. Engineer. Maybe then -maybe - you'll be "allowed" to make six figures. But what about the rest of us? What about the ones with no trust fund, no roadmap, no family business to walk into? What if we don’t want to be doctors — but builders, artists, creators, community leaders? Working with life coaches and business coaches, I realized something wild: We define ourselves by ceilings someone else handed us. And those ceilings? They’re not real. There are people like out here teaching kids how to make internet money. No gatekeepers. No credentials. Just creativity + consistency. And no — I’m not writing this from a private jet or poolside in Bali. I’m not “rollin’ deep in cash.” But this summer? I’m working less and making more than I ever have. Because I stopped asking, “What should I do?” And started asking, “What’s possible for me?” That one question — it changes everything. Because once you believe more is possible, the old money stories lose their power: “People like me don’t get rich.” “That’s greedy.” “I’m not smart enough.” “I’ll never get ahead.” Gone. I waited tables for most of my life. I thought that was good money. But what I didn’t have was a LeadHER — someone to show me how to dream bigger. So now? I’m becoming her. For the next generation. This letter isn’t to shame anyone who’s struggling. It’s to remind you that you’re not stuck. Your story isn’t over. Money isn’t magic. It’s math. It’s belief. It’s value and visibility. If no one’s ever said it to you, let me say it now: You’re allowed to want more. You’re capable of earning more. And you’re worthy of rewriting the story. So tell me… What’s your money story? Let’s change it — together.

My oldest is about to be ten. 2 hands. Ten fingers accounted for. A decade. I have drifted through life because I never had a mentor when I was young teach me other wise. No one saying, If you want your business to hit six figures a year you need 8.3k months. If you want to make a million a year you need 85k months. for the majority of my life, I worked as a server in a restaurant or a bartender or manager, and I had money in my pocket every day so I didn’t ever think long-term But when Covid came, and I couldn’t qualify for any assistance because my business had never made money, it was a wake up call for me my husband is a Details person and I am not he can tell you exactly how many pennies he has to his name and I just don’t check because I pretend like I just don’t have any so I won’t spend money When I was young, my dad always footed my bill and paid my way and it wasn’t until I was in my mid 30s when I finally figured out how money worked. I no longer live paycheck to paycheck or have thousands of dollars on a credit card. I owe on my house and that is it. I am sending out a newsletter, my very first one and I am sharing with you. A new idea that I have to mentor young women and help them start their early adulthood, knowing the power of debt free, clear mindset skills to lead teams for their own businesses and how to manage and steward time well. if this sounds like something you want to be a part of shoot me a DM ! I will make sure you are on my mailing list!

Real talk. You can have it all. Just not all at once. @oprah I am in a season of being taught to enjoy what I have. Not what I want. This has been a summer of freedom. From sitting with my little guy while he had chemo. Of being a mom. Not a cancer mom. And when I type that, my head and heart want to delete it because I know moms diagnosed and with kids that are diagnosed. But I have spent the summer rebuilding my origin story. I adore the community @thatcommunitygirl and @ashley.renders are building. The community calls are so filling. Other women deep in their search of how to share our stories online. For years, I didn’t share photos because I didn’t think they were good enough to share. I preach to everyone else to exist in the photos but I am a ghost in my own camera roll. Today I edited a precious session that brought so much joy to my soul. I can’t imagine ever being the girl who used to live in my head. The lies she believed (and they were so loud). The amount of escaping I did to just not hear her voice anymore. If I sound crazy to you, it’s ok. I never knew there could be a better, easier life. But then I discovered, therapy (ty @actsofks ), life coaching, and “the work.” I am 5 years sober. Man, I love red wine and sometimes when I see it on the movies, my heart is sad that I can’t have just “one.” I got on medicine for my ADHD and anxiety and the quiet and stillness my brain has now is 🤩 Sometimes we forget, that we can help someone else who’s barely holding on by sharing our story. I’m always here. My past made me who I am now. And I like myself. For along time, I didn’t like myself. I carried around a giant backpack of shame. But friend. When you quit speaking life over your fear and shame and have better soundtracks (@jonacuff ) You realize you are ok. But if you need a friend to whisper truth, I’m here for you! ❤️

Being a photographer is hard. The weather said 80% chance of rain during shoot time tonight so we pushed back a couple of days. We should know better trusting KS weather. My living room turned pink and i came outside to this. When things like this happen I just tell my self the Lord is saving us from an accident or something he saw ahead of us we didn’t see. My kids and husband went to the lake and I am just enjoying the quiet. If your a working from home SAHM, you get it. QUIET! Deleted 1,000 emails and unsubscribed to as many as I had patience for then asked ChatGPT how to clear my social and promotional inbox from 3 months ago or more. Little victories!

Let's be real about Kansas summers- it's going to be either blazing hot, super windy, or both. And honestly? You're right to worry about melting makeup and what Kansas wind does to hair. Here's what I've learned shooting seniors here for years: the weather's unpredictable, but that doesn't mean your photos have to be. I always ask my seniors: do you like green? Summer sessions give us those lush, vibrant backgrounds. Fall brings golden light and rich golden tones that feel like magic. My photography isn't just about capturing how you look. It's about capturing the real you. The one who can handle anything Kansas throws at her. Let's connect in the DM's or head to the link in my bio and browse my site!

Fun night out. I don’t leave the farm much in evenings. We live a slow life. It’s always so much fun to get out and meet other small business friends!

“Cancer is a word, not a sentence.” – John Diamond Next month we celebrate one year of Jack (9) “just beating it.” There’s no manual for being a cancer mom. No guidebook for 5pm calls saying “check into the hospital tonight.” No handbook for the panic, loneliness, financial strain(people thinking you quit work & stop booking), or watching your child endure chemo. But here’s what they don’t tell you: how the human heart can expand in ways you never imagined. Last night I watched brave Baylor (11) share her story, giving hope to others. I witnessed women donate $10,000 in 90 seconds. I saw the power of community and remembered - we couldn’t have done cancer without the support behind us. The friends who cleaned our house, brought groceries, gave us space to grieve while never forgetting us. They were our lifeline. To anyone with a friend going through this: really check in. Buy “grief groceries” or show up and clean. Your presence matters more than you know. To families in treatment rooms hearing scary stories - you’re not alone. I see you. To the incredible women of Reno County supporting our Cancer Council - I see you, thank you, and these kids especially thank you. #CancerMom #Community #Hope #Support #CancerCouncil

Cancer. It’s part of my story but not my whole story. I am so excited to share my new offer I have been working on for dayyysssss. It’s a combination of life coaching + mentoring + money mindset and the next generation. My previous pastor @ryan_wray told us “be who you needed.” This program is for high school Jr. and Senior girls who have a passion for social media, growth, and CEO / founder vibes. @darcybenincosa challenged me on a call with my mentor @sabrinagebhardtphotography to get to my roots of who I AM. Not as a cancer mom. Not as anything except myself! LeadHER. It’s back and I can’t wait to spill the beans more! I’m off to get my hair done and to @cancercouncilofrenocounty at @crystalballroom_attheburt I can’t wait to hang with @carjac_ @ktjoybrown @kittykeazer and the whole Ballroom crowd. I am sure there will be a way to donate or bid online for a purse. Support cancer y’all. People don’t need to sit in the suck alone. They need HELP! Let’s show them what’s possible.

If you’re wondering how to help a small business, start here. Share the post. Tag a friend. Tell someone, “Hey, you should check them out.” Right now, small businesses aren’t just looking for support, they need it to stay afloat. Mine included. After walking through the fire of childhood cancer, I learned something I’ll never forget: People do want to help. They just need to know how. So I’m telling you, this is how. If you see a small business offering value, showing up, putting their heart into what they do… Don’t scroll past. Sharing is caring isn’t just a phrase , it’s survival. For some of us, it’s what puts food on the table and hope back in the room. I need work. And I’m not ashamed to say it. Because I believe in what I do and I know the right people are out there. Thanks for showing up for small businesses like mine. You never know what a simple share might spark. DM me or headover to my link in bio and start a conversation!

Are you feeling stuck with your content or held back by limiting beliefs? Do you want to learn more about improving your mindset, boosting productivity, organizing your content, or using AI to make things easier? If you’re ready to break through what’s holding you back and get practical help in these areas, join my wait list for upcoming training! You’ll get tips, support, and tools to help you move forward no matter where you’re starting or if you are stuck and need a little nudge. Link in my stories!

“Your future self isn’t someone you discover — it’s someone you decide to become, starting today.” – @drbenjaminhardy Senior year flies by, but who you’re becoming is just getting started. Let’s capture this moment; not just for now, but for the future you’ll look back on! Booking senior sessions now! Limited summer spots available DM to reserve yours! Or head to link in my bio and email me!

Just picked up some pretty flowers from a mama who is living her dream. Thank you @saltcityblooms_ks for the pretty flowers! ❤️

Wow. This took me almost 2 hours. Instagram and the devil didn’t want me to write this. Or share this message of hope. We are here to remind you, if cancer is your assignment, we are here to hold your hand through the hard. If you want to drop Jack a note and celebrate with him- he still loves food, he had 8 cavities😳, so no more sticky candy or gum. But suckers, bath salts, bath bombs, or just a note like a far away 5 five! They love Freddy’s , McDonalds, and mom loves local coffee shops! Jack McMillian - 16 S. Rayl Rd. Burrton, KS 67020 We could not have done cancer without the online community we built. My heart is so grateful and I sit right here with a wet face (joyful tears) and just so thankful the person who started my journey @dremilyvinzant and the countless mentors who communities have saved my soul @sabrinagebhardtphotography @elizabeth.henson @lisastoopsfreedom @amyporterfield @ashley.renders @thatcommunitygirl @ashleyfreehanphotography @chriswharder @loriharder @chels_diaz (the flowers and the community of moms you have built learning that freedom is a choice) @1000lifelessons @celestesowder @ouiwegirl @couragebearproject @findbusinesscommunity And my own communities I have built. And many many authors like : @alexandravhoover @jennieallen find your people taught me community @drbenjaminhardy @lewishowes Sitting here on my couch and feeling so thankful for the valley. What the enemy meant for evil. God meant for good. Living in a new form of abundance and ALWAYS chasing joy. Even when it’s hard.

I’ll let the photos do the talking. These were the hard season. This is what everyone portrays cancer as online. It’s not all bald head and sickness. A little part of it is. Cancer is facing every day with courage you didn’t know you had. Childhood cancer is walking though the days God gives you, with joy. This little boy was always Smiling, and If he wasn’t, he wouldn’t tell you for 2-3 days later that he didn’t feel good. Fevers meant immediately going to the hospital ER. It wasn’t home. It wasn’t comfortable. Unless Carl was there. Our care team became our community and they were always the. Ones consistently showing up. We are blessed that we had such great community support that would go buy Jack weird food he wanted. It wasn’t easy but right here. 365 days later. From that last drop a chemo, I am a different person than I was when I walked into that fight, 3 years ago. I learned so much about who I am. I had to become her and it was hard. But I am here. I am ready for the new season and forever grateful for the trials. They are now my living testimony and I share it better now that we have walked all the way through the valley!

The audio of this reel is @wordswithruss if you don’t follow him I think he’s the best there is in storytelling through b roll video! 2022 is when all this started. I had jumped on the @msrachelhollis train and I was “washin my face (her book, girl wash your face). I was done with endless self sabotage and the mean girl and mean way I talked to myself. I had also found @sabrinagebhardtphotography around that time. I was running a business that wasn’t making a profit and my husband wanted me to be earning more. Hiring a business coach gave me so permission to see more and want more. Seeing her grow and do big things made me slowly realize I could be more. I jumped on the @amyporterfield train because I wanted to learn email marketing. I went on my first mastermind retreat. And came home to a little boy with really sore legs. He’s just growing so when he kept telling me, mama my legs hurt. I kept reminding him he was just growing. Until he couldn’t walk. And here we are on the other side. When we wake up tomorrow it will be almost one year of no chemo and next month the one year no cancer. I’ll keep telling more of my story as the days pass but I do know that my online community held me up and kept me while our life depended on our blood counts and what ever teeter totter our life took us on. Be sure and turn the words on because I think @wordswithruss is such a good storyteller. And I promised @thatcommunitygirl I would make one soon. I picked 100 photos and videos and barely got one month into cancer and sped up and added more of up to October 2022. Cancer has tried to come to steal, kill, and destroy, but God said, nope, I am abundant and you will do cancer to the full with joy. Chase all the joy, friends. I’m going to bed rejoicing for my situation but praying for the campers and camp Mystic people and Kerr County. My heart is heavy with the pain you are feeling. Know I hold space deep in my heart for you. God didn’t promise days with out pain; but he did promise comfort for the tears and light for the way 🙏🙏

Words I Wish Someone Had Told Me Five Years Ago — When I Was Building in Private I didn’t know “building in private” was a thing back then. I just knew I had words sitting in my heart with nowhere to go. Stories, prayers, reflections — things God was teaching me in the quiet, the unseen, the ordinary. If that’s you right now, I want you to hear this: You don’t need perfect conditions to start. You just need five minutes of honesty. And your kids? They’re watching. Not just how you care for everyone else — But how you care for your own soul. What if your daughter saw you writing out your heart, not just your grocery list? What if your son learned that women’s voices carry weight — because he saw you using yours? You can start small: Write a sentence about something God whispered to you today Describe the feeling of holding your child’s hand during bedtime prayer Jot down a moment you want to remember — even if no one else ever sees it Capture a question you’re wrestling with in your faith Write to your future self: “This is what it was like. This is what He taught me.” Your words don’t need to be published to matter. They just need to be true. There’s a mama out there — maybe in your own small group — who feels just like you do. And your quiet obedience to write could be the bridge between her isolation and hope. You don’t have to write for everyone. Just write what you know to be true. Just write what you’ve lived. Your story matters because it’s rooted in real life. And real life, walked with Jesus, is the most beautiful story there is. So go ahead. Pick up the pen. Open the notes app. Start somewhere, anywhere. Even if it’s messy. Even if it’s just one paragraph whispered in the dark. Even if it’s only for your eyes — or His. The world doesn’t need more perfection. It needs more honesty. More rooted women telling the truth about how God meets us in the middle of the mess. Your voice matters. Your story matters. You matter. Go write. Join our morning power hours (DM me for info). We’re starting our mornings with intention, community, and Jesus. Come sit with us. We built the table sis, and there is a seat for you.

If I had been home watching this, it would've been full-on ugly cry territory. Yesterday, I sat in a room full of incredible women gathered to support @opendoorhutch — a pregnancy care and crisis center that’s been part of my heart since I was a new mom myself. We had beautiful food (shoutout to my favorite team at @the_Bakery_House 💛), but the true nourishment came from the stories. @Cara A Hicks founder of The MOMentum Network, was our speaker — and y’all... she wrecked me. It was one of her first times sharing publicly, and her words were so raw, so real. She talked about growing up with a single mom, facing an unplanned pregnancy, graduating as salutatorian, and eventually building a nonprofit to support other student mothers. Her story? Equal parts heartbreaking and holy. I teared up sitting there... because she wasn’t just telling her story — she was living it in front of us. With so much grace and truth. And then there’s @Kristi , Open Door’s director — a fellow mom, a woman who’s also walked the single motherhood road, and now leads with compassion and clarity. She is an absolute gift. These are the moments that stay with you. The kind where you leave with mascara smudges and a heart a little more open than it was before. To every woman navigating hard things and still choosing to show up — I see you. And I’m cheering you on.

These boys are learning hard work. This is my baby. 8 years old and ran the combine in the other day by him self. Proud of these little boys of mine!

The Heart of What I Do Niching down is hard when your heart beats for both brand storytelling and family legacy. Because here's the thing—I'm not just a photographer. I'm a memory keeper. A visual storyteller. Someone who believes every photo, whether for your business or your baby book, holds the power to anchor you to what matters most. This in-home newborn session? Melted me. Quiet, sacred moments. I shot a simple iPhone video. Nothing fancy. But I surprised mom with it, and she told me: "This is what I'll watch when I forget how tiny he was." That hit me. Lately, I find myself wondering—did I enjoy my boys when they were babies, or am I just aching for the memories I never captured? This is why I do what I do. Because photography isn't just for now. It's for ten years from now. For when your babies are taller than you. For when your brand evolves but your heart stays rooted in the same why. Whether I'm shooting your rebrand or your rainbow baby, it all comes back to this: This isn't just a shoot. It's a strategy in motion. A story in the making. A legacy being built. Are your visuals preserving your legacy—or just filling space? Let's create something that feels like you.

We’re here till or 8 or so. You aren’t late your right on time. Come in the west entrance by the pink gutters and black cross You are welcome here.

Sunday! Join us tonight at The Manor in Burrton, KS for a night of worship! 7 pm Bring a worship music loving bestie or your mama or your dad and come on. Or come alone, we will welcome you in!

I am too tired to think of a post. But..... Morning light y'all! Thank you ladies for starting your morning with me. It was the best! Kayla Ehling Kesinger thank you for telling your friends about me. Best compliment ever. If you need a lash lady or an oily @doterra Kayla Adame can fix you right on up! @lindswray , one of your Classy Cru! Class of 2026, I am ready for you! So fun! My heart is so full! DM me and let's plan your shoot!

“While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night shall not cease.” - Genesis 8:22 To the future farmers in these pictures, Look at you out there - 8, 9, 12, 14 years old - already learning what it means to work the land. Your small hands are learning to plant seeds. Your young backs are getting strong from honest work. Your eyes are watching the seasons change and understanding the rhythm God built into this earth. You might not know it yet, but you’re not just learning to farm. You’re learning patience when the rain doesn’t come. You’re learning hope when you plant something tiny and trust it will grow. You’re learning that hard work and faith go hand in hand. The fields around Burrton have fed families for generations. Now it’s your turn to carry that forward. Every seed you plant today is a promise to tomorrow. Every lesson you learn now will feed someone someday. Keep those muddy boots and dirty hands. Keep asking questions. Keep watching and learning. Because farmers don’t just grow crops - they grow communities, they grow hope, and they grow the future. Kansas is counting on you, young farmers. I follow some amazing thought leaders doing big things for the next generation. @danmartell @mitchellalomar @russellbrunson @hormozi @lewishowes @imscottdonnell @gravystack @dinnertablefamily @drbenjaminhardy @dinnertableco . #genalphakids #alphakids #generationalpha #BurrtonFarmers #FutureOfAgriculture #KansasStrong #NextGeneration

Local. It’s my heart. Have you been @downtownhutch lately?!. There’s a super cool vibe going on and I had fun meeting @joseraysay while he was in town visiting his roots from Savanna, GA. Be sure to get in the comments and tell him your favorite kitty. And you’re welcome if you sing this every time you drive by. It’s across from @naclstudios and @sagerivermarket If you take your donations to @etceterashophutchins in Hutchinson this spot is close to the drop off unloading zone. Support local. Not Goodwill and check out what our city has to offer down town! Thank you @joseraysay I adored meeting you and getting to know about your heart and passion!

Today we honor Juneteenth and celebrate the freedom that belongs to all of us. Our community is stronger when we embrace our differences and build bridges together. Here's to continuing that work, one conversation and one connection at a time. 🤝 #Juneteenth #CommunityStrong #TogetherWeBuild

It’s supposed to be 100 degrees and we should be in the middle of harvest. But here we are. Stuck in the mud and praying we don’t get what they are forecasting is coming! I asked husband, where do I park. Lots of things will be flying if we get 80 mph winds / hail. Tractor and bailers get put in before mom’s old Tahoe! Pray for our state! I will be inside gathering my hard drives and a take to the shelter bag in event there is a real tornado. This song I picked feels like the anxiety I have. Weather is so scary to me! Praying it just rains a lot and farms and livelihoods aren’t tattered and thrown all over Reno County. Stay safe friends. Off to run in the rain inside. I should have ran when Eli did. Now it’s pouring again!!!

Stop trying to fit in. Start standing out. Scrolling through social media feels like Groundhog Day sometimes. Same poses, same captions, same "hustle harder" quotes. Everyone's following the same playbook, hoping to crack some mysterious code. But here's what I've learned: The algorithm doesn't reward sameness. People don't remember sameness. And your ideal clients? They're not looking for another carbon copy. They're looking for YOU. Your weird sense of humor. Your unconventional path. The way you explain things that makes complicated stuff click. The story behind why you do what you do—not the sanitized version, but the real one with plot twists and messy middles. Your competition is busy copying each other. Meanwhile, you have something they'll never have: your perspective, your voice, your story. So while everyone else is busy being everyone else, be unapologetically you. Talk about the things that matter to you. Share the lessons you learned the hard way. Show up as the person you actually are, not the person you think you should be. In a sea of same, authenticity is your lighthouse. What's one thing about your story that you've been hesitating to share? Drop it in the comments—let's celebrate what makes you different. 👇 Shout out for these friends for doing something different! EXISITING in their photos even when it feels uncomfortable! Go see WildFlower Boutique @wildflower.hutch to grab some cute clothes for your branding / content shoot and if you are selling a home Bernadette can help you. Facebook isn't playing nice with tagging, I will drop in comments! Shoutout @hollyssweettreatshutch @sagerivermarket @wildflower.hutch for the fun locations! There is a link in bio to book your content shoot! Friday's, Sage River Market has a day where you can come and meet your future bestie to get you through the "season of littles." Lots of fun mama's were there when we came to use the space to make some beautiful images of Bern!

🖤 FRIDAY THE 13TH CONFESSIONS 🖤 I truly believe every family, every business owner, every human—deserves to be seen the way I see them through my lens. That’s not luck. That’s the truth. And it’s wild how often we hide behind the camera instead of stepping in front of it. So real talk: When was the last time you showed up for YOU on camera? Not for the ‘gram. Not for the brand. Just for you? Drop it in the comments. I actually wanna know 👇 And hey—if this hit a little too close to home… maybe it’s time to change that. I just took a set of self-portraits that actually made me feel seen—and I’m sharing the full story + how you can do it too in my next email. This one’s for you. Get in there.

Fall wouldn't be complete without ______. Fill in the blank and help me design fall mini sessions around what YOU love most about the season!

Referrals hit different. You’re out here minding your business, showing up, doing the work… And someone else is out there saying your name in rooms full of opportunity. That’s wild, right? To everyone who’s ever dropped my name, shared my work, or vouched for me when I wasn’t in the room—thank you. You’re the real MVPs. Here’s the truth: keep doing what you do, and your name will be spoken in places your feet haven’t even stepped yet. PS: Keep putting yourself in rooms that stretch you, scare you, or make you question if you’re "ready." You are. Your story matters too. Thank you @thelizwilcox for the PS inspo! Here are a few BTS of my little content studio I built at my country / rural home studio outside of Hutchinson, KS! If you are content curious, come out sometime and learn how to get comfortable as the one in the content and we can plan your content for a month and in less than 2 hours! I am doing it along side of you! I would love to help you stand out and be visible online! Drop me a message below 👇 https://www.saramcmillian.com/contact

🌾 GOLDEN WHEAT MINI SESSIONS 🌾 The wheat fields are glowing and summer has arrived! That dreamy golden light we've all been waiting for is here. Perfect for family portraits, senior sessions, or any milestone moments - these fields make the most beautiful natural backdrop. Now booking - these golden fields won't last long, and neither will the spots on my calendar. Drop me a message and let's get you scheduled! https://www.saramcmillian.com/contact or sara@saramcmillian.com

The river isn’t supposed to crest until 7 am tomorrow morning. Praying for all my Butler Co. and surrounding area friends. These images and video are from my sister and dad who live along the river bottom. It’s crazy how you go from a drought to a flood in no time quick. Say an extra prayer for all those going to bed with weary hearts. . . . #Butlercountyflood2025 #douglassks #kansasflood #ksflood2025

If you had just 10 hours to make people aware of your business… what would you do? I’ve been sitting with that question today. Because here’s the truth: I’ve been a photographer for 20 years. I’ve walked through my mother’s cancer, my son’s leukemia, and my own sobriety transformation. And I still catch myself whispering, “Is it okay to be seen?” But what if visibility didn’t have to be loud? What if it could be layered, relational, sacred? So I asked myself: How would I stack connection over promotion? How would Sara McMillian grow this next season through service, not strategy? And here’s what came up: • I’d reach out to the people who’ve said “You changed something for me” — and invite them to share • I’d go live and tell one story I’ve been too scared to post • I’d pray before I publish, asking, “Who needs this today, Lord?” • I’d choose to show up messy and faithful, not polished and perfect This post isn’t a marketing tip. It’s a heart check. You don’t need 10,000 followers to build a beautiful business. You need 10 aligned hearts willing to carry your story further. If this speaks to you, I’d love to hear — 👉 What would you do with your 10 hours?

It’s Friday! I’m headed to meet a couple of Internet friends and linked in experts right here in small town USA! Want to know more?! @mag.pounds @adampounds Go, give them a follow if you are on the linked in train! Farm sessions are in full swing! Come hang out this summer and let’s document those kiddos or your family! Every small business owner with a personal brand needs some personal photos to share! Plus, @thebarn.burrton is right down the road!

Okay, I have to tell you what’s new over at @sagerivermarket in Downtown Hutchinson, KS. Y'all know I LOVE LOCAL! My friends Bekah Tripp and Garret just added a coffee shop to their already amazing boutique—and I’m kind of obsessed. If you’ve been to the boutique, you already know it’s a vibe: beautiful women’s clothing in all sizes, meaningful local gifts, and home goods that make you want to redecorate your whole place. It’s been such a gem in Hutch for the past few years. But now? You can grab a local coffee and just be there. The space feels like a warm hug—welcoming, cozy, and full of heart. It’s not just about the coffee (though it’s really, really good). It’s about what they’ve created: a space for community, connection, and slowing down. I swung by last week for a quick caffeine fix when I came in town for an event (they’re open 7a–6p Tuesday through Saturday). The new coffee space blends so beautifully with the boutique—it’s like the final piece just clicked into place. Boutique hours are still 12p–6p Tuesday to Friday and 10p–4p Saturday, so you can sip and shop all in one stop. And if you’re a content creator, bring your camera. This place is a dream to shoot in—and it’s only going to get more popular. Bekah and Garret, you two keep creating magic. Hutchinson is better because of you. P.S. Got a few books you’ve been meaning to pass along? Bring them by—there’s a sweet little take-a-book, leave-a-book nook that’s perfect for sharing stories.

Who feels me?!?! Summer Break. Day 1 🫠

Picture this: You’re sipping your morning coffee… and your entire week’s content is already done. Written. Aligned. Ready to connect. Yes—it really can feel that simple. And no, it doesn’t have to feel robotic or disconnected from you. If you’ve ever worried that handing off content support means losing your voice—or sounding like ChatGPT with zero heart—I get it. That’s why in my recent talk, I shared the difference between the old way of branding… and the soulful way. One chases trends. The other? It reflects your truth. And the best part? You can still catch it. Join us today at 11am for live coaching—or watch the replays when it works for you. We’re diving into how to use @celestesowder & @askjordanaspen custom built GPTs to create aligned, heart-led content that sounds like you on your best day. It’s the ultimate Mother’s Day gift to yourself: Space. Simplicity. Soulful support. Join us here: thesoulsisterproject.com/the-ssp-reboot

Doing grown up things!

Hey friend—welcome to this reset! Today we’re anchoring into your deeper why, who you serve, and what makes your voice different. Reflect on this: — Why did you start your business? — Who are you really here to serve? — What makes your work different? — Who is your dream client? Sara's Why: I help soul-led women in the messy middle overcome burnout and confusion through brand storytelling + emotional clarity—so they can build sustainable, freedom-based businesses rooted in who they truly are. I built this work while sitting at my son’s hospital bed the past 2 years (3 year diagnosis day almost here)—not for hype, but for healing. For freedom. For women like me who needed a brand that could be built anywhere, without burning out. Drop your why in the comments—I’ll be reading every one. Let’s reconnect to the real reason we started this. We’re just getting started. REMINDER: @@the_soul_sister_project 3 Day Reboot Starts tomorrow. The link will be in the comments 👇! — Sara #CEOResetChallenge #NorthStar #BrandWithHeart #SaraMcMillian #SoulfulStrategy

To the Mother Missing Her Mom This Mother's Day I stand in the card aisle, caught between nostalgia and hope. Though I can no longer buy those "For Mom" cards, I smile thinking how she'd have loved the corny ones with the perfect words or sang a song. This is Mother's Day with her memory living on. I see you selecting cemetery flowers, making sure they're her favorites. There's love in this new ritual, a different way to honor her that still connects us. I still reach for the phone when my boys do something remarkable. In that moment of remembering she's not there, I hear her voice saying "You've got this, mama." And I mother forward with confidence. I catch glimpses of her everywhere—in my hands kneading dough just like hers, in my laugh that suddenly mirrors hers. Little inheritances that surprise and comfort me. My children know their Grandma Angel through stories—how she danced in the kitchen, her famous cookies, her infectious laugh. In sharing these, she remains present. Her legacy blooms in our everyday moments. Each Mother's Day feels different but rich with meaning. I've found new traditions that honor both my role as a mother and hers as the woman who taught me how. To you who mother with your mother's spirit as your guide—I see your strength. I celebrate your resilience. We carry forward their wisdom, humor, and love. In recipes now written down. In phrases we catch ourselves saying. In how we tuck our children in at night. This club we never wanted to join gives us perspective on what truly matters. I see how you pause to take family photos, making sure everyone's included. I treasure every image where her spirit shines through—these windows to the past that my children peer into with wonder. So I step in front of cameras too, creating a visual story that connects generations—past, present, and future—in one unbroken, beautiful circle. Happy Mother's Day! {I write this from a place of joy}

I knew I had to get rooted before I could build anything. Rooted in truth. Rooted in healing. Rooted in Him. Before the business… Before the clarity… God whispered it to me—at the end of my driveway. Before Jack got sick. Before everything shifted. I didn’t know what was coming, but He did. And I had to surrender it all. I stopped drinking. I let go of the baby weight—physically and emotionally. I found my people. And in the messiest way, I started saying yes. Not perfect. Not polished. Just… rooted. And willing. God used the internet—of all places—to connect me with two women who were ready too. And now? We’re building something holy. Messy. Afraid. Excited. Overwhelmed. Ready. We’re doing it together. And now— We want to help you. You don’t have to stay stuck in the yuck of “how.” You just need a little courage. A little community. And a whole lot of Jesus. You will want to be in this room. We’re saving you a seat. Head to link in my stories for more!

Do you use AI in your business? I was sitting here thinking of my Late Mama with Mother's Day approaching and my spirit said, "use AI to write a letter from her." Grab a kleenex... "My Dearest Scooter, It's been fourteen springs since I left, but I watch over you daily, my queen bee. Remember when Grandma gave you that nickname because you zoomed from one adventure to the next? Those Franklin, TN days were treasures—seeing you behind the bar at Jonathan's Grille, popping bottle tops with such flair, creating connections not just serving drinks. Your 500-person wedding didn't surprise me one bit! I was there in that whisper of wind that lifted your veil when calm washed over you. How I'd love to chase your boys through the tall grass on that beautiful farm! Being "Grandma Angel" fills my heart beyond words. I would've been there for Jack during chemo, just as you were for me. You were my rock then; you're his rock now. Your photography business would have me handing out your cards everywhere: "She captures souls, not just faces!" The photos throughout your home are touchpoints where our worlds meet. That's why your work matters—preserving moments that become priceless when time moves on. Make memories TODAY. That's why it's called the present. With endless love, Mom It's okay to feel joy and sorrow simultaneously this Mother's Day 🥰🙏 If you want to learn how AI can give you hours back in your life and business, I can help! Email: Sara@saramcmillian.com

Stepped away from @russellbrunson’s fire… The Kansas night is still. The wildflowers I planted weeks ago— silent, unseen— reminded me: growth doesn’t always shout. Tell me what your learning in the comments 👇

You can’t rewrite a story you’re too afraid to name. Limiting beliefs aren’t just thoughts. They’re shape-shifters—masquerading as logic, playing dress-up as “just being realistic,” whispering you’re not ready, not enough, not her. Start calling them what they are. “I’m bad at business” “Nobody cares what I have to say” “I’ll show up once I look the part” Nah. That’s not truth. That’s fear in costume. Choose you instead. Show up before you feel ready Speak before you’re fully polished Build before it’s all figured out The glow-up doesn’t start after the fear goes away. It starts the second you stop letting it drive. And hey—if that first bold move is finally getting a headshot that actually looks like you (not a LinkedIn mannequin from 2016), I’ve got you. Let’s talk: Sara@saramcmillian.com

Watching a storm roll in. @garthbrooks reminds me of sitting in my seat on the old sweaty smelly school bus with my uncomfortable wire headphones, cassette tape singing into my ears, while we bounced up and down rocky country roads to and from school. Some of you are like- what is a cassette? Happy Wednesday, friends! Not bad back yard views here in Kansas. Thunder rolls seemed appropriate for these pretty storm clouds.

The number one thing I try to prepare people for their photo shoot. …. HANDS all of a sudden feel like their weigh 500 lbs and what do I do with them?! I guide you through poses and have fun with you so you don’t feel so bad! As for learning….. I have been tuning into @copyposse Personal Branding bootcamp this week (this is my topic so when I see people I love doing an offer, I jump in and learn some things) ! It has been fun to meet some new people and learn some thing news and catch up on old. Alex is precious. I adore her YouTube channel. Bottom line, put yourself out there. Just be you and own your brand! People buy from people they know, like and trust. Comment on this post how you know, like or trust me?!? 🧡🙏🤓

Today felt like true joy. I got to do a brand shoot for a realtor team and we laughed so hard we almost cried. I just felt the Lord whisper this is victory, mama. The 8 months of stillness. Head down dreaming and working and future planning, I am finally seeing fruit from. I still find some identity in “the cancer mom” and I guess, I will always be a childhood cancer mom. But today, it feels lighter. My joy feels deeper. And I am so grateful for this beautiful life I have created with my family. Tell me what you feel victorious for tonight?!?! If you are the praying type, pray for some rain. The farmers need some for their crops. I live with a farmer and the last few years of drought have been hard on our community and nation as a whole. But as I see lighting off in the distance, I hope it sends some rain!

The value of your content doesn’t come from how much time you put into it anymore. It’s about the connections you make, the systems you build, and how effectively you can scale your efforts. I am living in the victory of the time I have spent investing into myself! Shoutout @omareltakrori for being the first one to help me understand how to exist! And yay for 8 months CANCER FREE. Walking in so much freedom. 🧡🙏🙌

If you want to have the brand that attracts dream clients, you have to first be the entrepreneur who invests in looking like the expert you already are —and do the work of showing up consistently and powerfully online. Right now, you're doing the work. You're building the business. But if your visuals don't match your value, you're making it 10x harder to be trusted, remembered, or referred. When you work with me, you're not just getting photos. You're getting the fast pass to becoming the version of yourself that sells out, stands out, and stays booked. Period. Let's chat about the perfect brand experience for you! Sara@saramcmillian.com

Building Tomorrow Together: The Heart of Community There's a moment I'll never forget: my son Jack standing in church, hands tucking in his pocket just like his dad's. This little boy, who has faced battles no child should, couldn't contain his excitement. He wanted to stand exactly like his dad. Between feeding cows and farm demands, schedules get complicated he hasn't been to church much this winter. While on our Make A wish trip, Jack asked when dad could come back to church. Not because of programs or sermons—but because community means family together, experiencing something real. Community isn't about buildings or donations. It's where we find freedom from isolation, forgiveness that heals, and life that feels meaningful again. The church doesn't want your money—it wants to share its heart: the welcoming heart of Jesus. I watched my son mimic his hero and realized—this is what investing in the next generation looks like. It's showing up. It's creating spaces where children see faith lived out in relationship. As we celebrate Palm Sunday today, we're reminded that Easter is coming—a perfect time to experience the hope and new beginnings that community offers. Just as Jesus was welcomed into Jerusalem, there's a welcome waiting for you here. What does community mean to you? Who might be watching, hoping you'll join them? Freedom. Forgiveness. Life. They're waiting for you this Easter season. Come, there is a seat in a pew for you! @fccburrton 10:30 every Sunday!

A few years ago, I walked into a networking event... and I overheard someone across the room say my name. Not in a "gossip" way. In a "you need to meet her" kind of way. They didn’t talk about my follower count. Or how “perfect” my feed looked. They said things like: “She’s the real deal.” “She makes you feel seen.” “She helped me believe in myself.” And in that moment, it hit me: THIS is what brand building really means. It’s not logos or colors or catchy bios. It’s the feeling people carry after they experience you. It’s the quiet reputation that follows you when you’re not there to defend it or pitch it. It’s the story they tell — without you having to say a word. What story are you writing today — with your energy, your words, your presence? You’re building something powerful. Keep going. (If you’re ready for your photos to tell THAT story for you — my Signature Brand Sessions are now open. DM me and let’s create it together.)

The future of marketing isn’t on the way — it’s already HERE. AI isn’t just helping brands work faster. It’s completely reshaping how we connect, create, and scale. Those who embrace it will move faster, build deeper loyalty, and unlock new levels of creativity. Those who don’t? They’ll get left behind. AI isn’t replacing marketers. It’s empowering the next generation of leaders. This is your time to master it, leverage it, and LEAD with it. Ready or not... the future is now. If you are wanting to learn AI but don't know how, DM me! I can give you hours of your time back!

Almost 3 Years Ago, The Night Everything Changed We were told Jack had leukemia... Over the phone. No warning. No time to process. No chance to catch our breath. We were told we needed to check into the children's hospital that night. Not tomorrow. Not later. Now. I remember standing there, holding the phone, trying to understand how just hours before life was "normal" — and now everything was different. I remember the fear. The racing heart. The way the world suddenly felt too sharp, too loud, too fragile. We packed bags we didn’t know how to pack. We drove through a blur of tears and prayers. And we walked into a hospital that would become our second home for the months ahead. That night was the beginning of the hardest, holiest, most heartbreaking journey we've ever walked. But it was also the night God showed up in ways I couldn't have imagined — with strength we didn't know we had, with people we hadn't yet met, with hope that somehow refused to die. Today, as I watch Jack running, laughing, living cancer-free — I still remember that night. And I remember the God who held us through it. If you’re in the middle of your own unthinkable moment, I want you to know: You're not alone. The same God who carried us is carrying you too.

Twenty years ago, friends — I shot my very first wedding. A student at @nossicollegeart near Nashville, one of my dear teachers,@acephotonash , took a chance on me. I’ll never forget walking around that big ballroom and thinking, this is it. This is my job. I shot weddings up until 2015 when Jack was born. Fast forward: I’m now a mama. For a season, the Lord allowed me to lay weddings down and simply be theirs. 🤍 Now, with my boys growing and helping Dad on the farm or with the cows, I feel a new permission to pick my camera back up — but this time, I show up differently. Driving to a wedding, my mind races — will I miss too much at home? But what I forgot (after all that time with Jack’s illness) was the deep joy weddings bring me. I've learned the beauty of a growth mindset: booking sessions & weddings my way, in a way that honors how I want to live, love, and work. And goodness, joy has met me there. "Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls." – Mother Teresa 🕊️ At these weddings, it’s not about rehearsed moments — it’s about real ones: • kids laughing in the background • tearful toasts from family who traveled miles to celebrate • impromptu dance floors when music finds willing feet. When you work with me, it’s not about stiff poses — it’s about feeling joy throughout your day. Through my lens, I capture not just images, but the beginning of a family. These photos will tell the story of how two separate histories became one — how 'yours' and 'mine' turned into ours. This is the true magic of candid photography — capturing not just what a wedding looked like, but what a family becoming feels like. ❤️ I am so excited to Celebrate Suzy and Ben today! Stay tuned for some fun peeks of their big day next week!

An Open Letter to My Future Self My dear self, In the mirror today, I saw our mother's eyes looking back at me—and dad's determined jaw. How strange to find them both there in my face, especially now, almost fourteen years since we lost her to cancer. I'm reminded of Maya Angelou's words: "I am the dream and the hope of the slave... I am the journey and the destination." April 6th marks another year without mom. That darkness after she passed wasn't the end of your story—just the hardest chapter. When your son faced cancer, you thought the world was ending again. But all that therapy and life coaching prepared you for when you needed to be stronger than you imagined possible. "Be who you needed & Joy in the Journey" became your purpose, and watching him grow, with that "know-it-all" personality mirroring your younger self, cracked your heart wide open with joy. The help you longed for did arrive—a business coach, online besties, and community you never anticipated. They proved family extends beyond blood. Ten years from now, when the kids are 19 and 17, these difficult years will have shaped you, but not broken you. Remember: you are the sum of the five people you spend the most time with. Choose wisely. It's a blessing to be a blessing. Look at your face again. Those eyes that resemble hers—they've seen so much more now. That jawline from dad—it's set with determination, but tempered by experience. You are their legacy, walking forward, carrying their light. With love and pride for how far you've come, Your present self Writing past and future letters are so good for your soul. Try it and tell me in the comments your feels!👇 Also shout out to my friend @angela.doran and the guide she wrote inspiring theses self portraits I took of myself this weekend!

Self care. It matters. Mother’s Day is coming. This is what she wants! My friend saw me on the struggle bus and invited me along on her self care day. Thanks @special_k9_dog_training @body_shop_spa_ks

Change the picture of possibilty in your life. Don't let the chains of fear keep you anchored to a life you don't love. Far toooo long, I let chains of shame and perfectionism anchor me down like a big heavy wrecked ship. Guess what, those chains are free and yours can be too! I am starting a challenge soon! Stay tuned!

Overflowing with Gratitude 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏 My heart is still overwhelmed by the Holy Spirit's powerful presence this past weekend in our small Kansas town. At our Fearless Women's Conference, we witnessed the incredible power of community and courage. To all the amazing women who joined us, whether you came alone hoping to encounter the Holy Spirit or brought friends to share in the experience—thank you! Seeing each of you in Burrton, KS on March 28 & 29, 2025 filled the event with such unforgettable energy and joy. Thank you for making it special! "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." — 2 Timothy 1:7 Guided by this scripture, we explored how facing our deepest fears can not only transform our lives but also inspire others to live more freely. Each story shared and each connection made revealed the beauty of finding your tribe and the strength that comes from standing together. Let's keep this spirit alive in our weekly gatherings! Join us for Bible study every Monday morning from 8:30 to 10:30 AM at the same blessed place where our conference was held. It's a time to deepen our faith, nurture our bonds, and continue supporting each other in living fearlessly. Find your people, live fear-free(ish), and let's flourish together in faith and fellowship! Going into this week feeling so free, like I can do anything I have wanted but have been too afraid to do! Thank you to all the speakers, worship leaders and of course Ryan Wray for being our sound guy! Want to know more about our Bible Study and community there is more coming soon on that! Hopefully we will be marking calendar for same time next year. To my Sword Study Bible Chicks, I am so proud to call each of you friends and wowza, look what GOD DID! . . . #FearlessFaith #WomenOfStrength #CommunityInChrist #fearless #burrtonkscommunity #rootedandrestored #rootedinfaith #RootedInFaith #presenceworshipnight #liveinfreedom #abundantmindset #mindsetcoach #abundancecoaching #lifechange #soberliving

We got a big upgrade this weekend! I have wanted to come stay cation here. I love it here. It is so peaceful and it’s the perfect place to host a mastermind or small gathering for about 12 of your favorite people right here in Yoder,KS! Excited to see god move in big ways this weekend!

Senior photos? Oh shoot—I knew I forgot something between the prom dress fittings and snack duty sign-ups. If you’re a senior mom who just realized you haven’t booked your kiddo’s session yet, take a deep breath. You’re not late. You’re running on real-mom time, and that’s exactly how it goes this season. Between college applications, grad announcements, last games, and all the “lasts” you’re trying to hold onto, it’s completely normal for senior photo sessions to slip through the cracks. Here’s the good news: there’s still time. I have a few spring spots left that are perfect for capturing your senior just as they are right now—right before they step into their next chapter. It’s low stress, beautiful light, and all about making sure you have this milestone documented. Because in the blink of an eye, they’ll be crossing that stage. And while that moment flies by, the images we capture together will last forever. Email me at sara@saramcmillian.com and let’s make it happen. My website is temporarily down..... mom fail. But that's another story! Also, if you have sent me a facebook message and I haven't responded, it may have got lost in a sea of birthday messages. Please, text or call me if you don't love email. Sara@saramcmillian.com I am also looking for someone wanting a couple hours of admin work a week to help me with bookings and email (not in my creative genius)! Let's chat. . . . #highschoolseniorphotography #content ##2025highschoolseniors #outdoorseniorsession #rusticseniorphotographer #funphotography #creativeseniorphotography #hutchin#hutchinson #hutchinsonkansasphotographer #hutchinsonkansasseniorphotographer

AI. There are two types of folks. The AI crowd and the non AI crowd. ChatGPT, ClaudeAI, and @donaldmiller storybrand AI are my business besties these days. @kallaway @kallawaymarketing dropped a new AI bot recently too. Using AI has given me so much time back in my day and I’m excited to read this book @ashley.renders told us about! I love a good read! I am still playing catch up from a week off. Before cancer, I had no business systems, CRM’s, strategies or business knowledge for that matter. These past 3 years I have invested so much money into myself learning from great mentors and I’m finally in the “I believe in myself and I’m ready for action phase.” I love learning. I was never a good student because ADHD and anxiety (unmanaged) I had a loud crazy brain that held me back from so much. But now, I use it like a super power! If this sounds like your brain, we should chat! My Bible study group is putting on an in person event this weekend and I am so excited. We still have room for a few more. Come see what the Lord is doing in Burrton, KS! I’ll drop a link in my stories! . . . #contentcreationtips #adhdmama #adhdwomen #adhdentrepreneur #mindsetforgreatness #greatness #mentor #aimentor #aistrategy #contentstrategy #contentstrategist

The Magic of Being on the Other Side of the Camera. "Great leaders don't tell you what to do, they show you how it's done." - @thechrisdo Yesterday I stepped away from behind my lens and into another photographer's creative space - and wow, what an incredible experience! A huge thank you to Aaron for welcoming me into his studio and putting me in front of the camera for a change. @aaronapatton There's something so valuable about experiencing what our clients feel when they're being photographed. The vulnerability, the trust, the collaboration - it's given me fresh perspective that I'll carry into all my future sessions. Aaron's approach to photography is fueled by "endless curiosity and a love for the overlooked" - and that curiosity is contagious! His ability to tell visual stories that truly connect is evident in every frame. If you're looking for a photographer who leaves space for the unexpected and pushes past "good" to find something truly captivating, go check out Aaron's work at @aaronapatton https://aaronpatton.net His client list speaks volumes (FILA, TLC, Pfizer, YMCA, and more), but it's his thoughtful approach to storytelling that really sets him apart. Thank you, Aaron, for the inspiration and for helping me grow as both a photographer and a subject! I love that you follow your heart and create work that makes others feel so seen and valued for what they do! Your spirit is so kind and I love the way you are always helping other photographers see the value in charging what they are worth and leading the community so beautifully! It was so fun to meet you IRL and thank you for listening to me and letting me speak so freely! Always chasing joy! Sara McMillian

We're home from our son Jack's Make-A-Wish trip to Branson, and my heart is overflowing with emotions I can barely contain. I HAVE SO MANY MESSAGES TO RETURN. I will do that tomorrow! Thank you @makeawishmokan Make-A-Wish Missouri & Kansas As a photographer, I'm used to capturing special moments for others, but this time, I was fully present in creating our own precious memories. So many moments brought tears to my eyes—watching Jack's face light up during the show, David, at Sight and Sound {https://www.sight-sound.com/} , meeting David and other cast members, seeing the magic behind the stage. These are core memories that will stay with us forever. Of course we saw the Titanic! I'm filled with overwhelming peace and gratitude. Thank you from the depths of our hearts to Make-A-Wish and everyone who supports their beautiful mission. And to anyone who gives their time, talent, funds, or heart to help children with cancer—you are making a difference beyond what you can imagine. As a bonus, this mama got to celebrate another birthday. Thank you to Anika at @xpressobranson for getting us the VIP backstage access and of course, the wonderful LOCAL coffee. I'm bottling up every single moment, every laugh, every smile, every tear of joy. A special thank you to Sight and Sound Theaters for the extraordinary experience they created for Jack. Your kindness and generosity have given our family a gift we will cherish forever. Some journeys change you forever. This was one of them. ❤️ While I would never wish cancer on anyone, the Lord blessed us so much along the way. He always reminds me that it is in these HARD times that He is writing our transformational stories. These challenges shape us into who we are meant to be. And He wants us to share our story even when it's hard. Need help? Reaching out isn't weakness—it's courage. . . . #MakeAWish #makeawishmokan #ChildhoodCancer #FamilyMemories #Gratitude #BransonMO #David #bransonmo #SightandSoundTheatres

Jack’s Make-A-Wish @makeawishmokan adventure is finally here! We’re getting ready to surprise boys and tell them that we are leaving for Branson for a magical week filled with laughter, joy, and memories that will last a lifetime. Thankful for my in-laws house sitting & Feeding cows so we can leave! If you have cows, or are married to someone who has cows, you know the struggle. As my good friend said, getting out of the driveway is the hardest part! (You can tell we were in treatment the last time we went)! This trip means the world to us, and I am excited to surprise the boys that we are roadtripping to MO! Thank you to everyone who’s supported us on this incredible journey—it means more than words can say. We'll be sharing lots of smiles, adventures, and behind-the-scenes fun, so stay tuned! Follow along—we can't wait to share our favorite moments from Jack’s unforgettable wish trip! There will be joy this week, friends! Thank you for all the joy you have added to our journey and @jasminegreen for the beautiful t-shirt design you made for us! Your kindness will never be forgetten! . . . . #lifeasjackeddie #makeawishmokan #JacksJourney #MakeAWish #WishGranted #BransonBound #FamilyAdventure #MagicMoments #MakeAWishFoundation #Grateful #JoyfulMemories #SpecialK9Family

Yesterday, I shared a video of my mom on my personal page. Showing up in pictures is invaluable for your children. Showing up in their lives is even more important. "The most precious gift we can offer others is our presence. When mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers." - Thich Nhat Hanh Time spent with our children isn't just measured in hours and minutes, but in the memories created and the lessons shared. Your presence is the greatest present you can give them. Just like our cattle that are passed down through generations, our family values, traditions, and the wealth of wisdom we share create a legacy that endures far beyond material possessions. It's that Thursday, McCurry Bull Sale Day. . . . #FamilyMoments #FamilyTime #MakingMemories #GenerationalLegacy #catttleranchers #kansasangusassociation #kansascattlemensassociation #kansascattleman

Carol S. Dweck, the author of Mindset, once said: "Becoming is better than being." This simple yet powerful truth has shaped the way I approach leadership and personal growth. Too often, we hear the phrase “natural-born leader,” but the truth is, leadership isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build. It’s a process of learning, stretching, failing, and rising again. For me, that process has been fueled by a relentless hunger to grow. Online courses, challenges, coaching programs, and deep dives into personal development have shown me that leadership is a skill—one that can be sharpened over time. Every new book, every workshop, every challenge I embrace is another brick in the foundation of who I am becoming. The difference between those who lead and those who stay stuck isn’t talent—it’s mindset. It’s the belief that growth is always possible. That skills can be learned. That the discomfort of stretching beyond your limits is proof you’re stepping into something greater. So, if you’ve ever doubted your ability to lead, let this be your reminder: You are not fixed. You are not limited. You are in the process of becoming. Keep learning. Keep growing. Keep showing up. Because leaders aren’t born. They are made. #GrowthMindset #LeadersAreMade #LifelongLearner #CarolDweck #BecomingNotBeing #PersonalGrowth

Supporting local initiatives has always been at the heart of what I do. As a rural Kansas photographer specializing in small business branding and social media coaching, I believe in the power of community and collaboration. By purchasing a digital copy or print of my work, you're not just acquiring a piece of art; you're investing in our local community. Your support enables me to continue capturing the unique stories and moments that define us. Let's uplift and empower each other by keeping our investments close to home. Purchase your photo here: https://Saramcmillianphotography.pixieset.com/sunshinemeadows/ Some of you know my story, and some do not. In May of 2022, our oldest, Jack, was diagnosed with ALL Leukemia, and our world forever changed. Like, we had to go to the hospital THAT NIGHT. It was crazy. That season and plans for building a community around high school senior photography changed in a instant. But thanks to community, we are on the other side of hard and GRATEFUL! There has always been joy in our journey! But like any cancer story, it comes with a cost! I have no shame in letting you know, we are headed out on a big Journey!!!!! Jack doesn't know yet, so don't tell him! We are finally getting to take Jack's Make-A-Wish trip to Branson over spring break! If you'd like to send some extra love his way, our Venmo is https://venmo.com/u/Sara-Mcmillian-2. Any contributions will go towards making this trip even more special for Jack and Eli.Make a wish foots a lot of the bill but real talk, farming and photography have been hard in this season! I read a great book by Dr. Ben Hardy called "Be Your Future Self Now." I could not have gotten through our cancer treatment without reading that book. Enough of my ramble. You can buy a print or digital copy here: Purchase your photo here: https://Saramcmillianphotography.pixieset.com/sunshinemeadows/ 316-640-3457 is my direct # if you need help ordering Send Jack some Venmo below 👇 https://venmo.com/u/Sara-Mcmillian-2 Thank you for being a part of our story! And thank you for letting me tell yours @sunshinemeadowsretirementcomm

Come see what God is doing here in Burrton! We are excited for a two day women’s conference with some amazing people! @presencewrshp @stemomicah @matlack5 @lindswray @celeste_guido Today’s the last day for $5 off! Don’t miss it! Tag your girlfriends and get ready for the best weekend. Fearless! Let’s go. Come watch what God has planned! . . . #womensconference #burrtonks #jesusfilled #abundantwomen #Prayingmama #kswomenevent

When I began my personal growth journey after reading "Girl, Wash Your Face" by @msrachelhollis , I was a frazzled mess searching for community and support to become a better version of myself. Little did I know that @lindswray , our children's ministry leader, would become a lifelong friend, mentor, and spiritual sister. @crosspointnow As @msrachelhollis writes, "We need to be in community. We need to be around other people who are making positive choices so that we're not alone." This perfectly describes what I found through Lindsay at @crosspoint —a supportive community that lifts each other up and helps us grow together in faith. She made me feel good about my screaming kids who didn't go to daycare and didn't love it when I left the room....... Lindsay is a powerful prayer warrior whose electric presence simply makes you feel good. Her guidance has been instrumental in my journey, and I'm beyond grateful for the moments we shared in my studio today. Rachel’s book also reminds us that "You can be committed to church but not committed to Christ, but you cannot be committed to Christ and not committed to church." Lindsay embodies this truth by not just talking about faith but living it out daily and helping others do the same. I'm excited to see what God has planned for us and can't wait to hear you speak at our Fearless Conference! Happy International Women's Day to someone who exemplifies strength, faith, and friendship. Thank you for empowering me and countless others with your light! 💕 Are you looking for a updated headshot and some photos to use in your branding to show the REAL YOU! Let's connect! Shoutout to @evotoai - thank you for making droping in colored backdrops a breeze. . . . #WomensDay #CelebratingWomen #FearlessConference

Imagine your favorite superhero. You instantly know what they look like, right? Their outfit, their pose, their energy—it’s all so clear. Now, picture you as the superhero of your business. Personal brand photography captures the real you—the energy, the passion, the magic that makes people want to work with you. It’s not just a ‘say cheese’ headshot—it’s storytelling in pictures. When people see these images, they feel like they already know you, trust you, and want what you offer. And yes, we’ll get that classic headshot too. But imagine having photos where you look like the expert you are. Smiling, working, creating—showing the world exactly why you’re the one they’ve been searching for. Let’s capture the essence of YOU—authentic, confident, and unforgettable. Reach out, and let’s chat!

Throwback to when 'making mommy coffee' meant jelly beans in the coffee grinder and a 10-pound bag of flour redecorating the kitchen! Looking at these flour-covered faces from 6-7 years ago reminds me how quickly time flies. Those little boys with mischievous grins and the best intentions are growing up so fast. The mess was temporary, but these memories? Absolutely priceless. Even the tears at the end are sweet to remember now. Sometimes I wish I could go back and tell my younger, more frazzled self: the messes clean up, but you can never get these moments back. Cherish the chaos. . . . #raisingboys ##positivemindset #childofmine #holdonmama #entrepreneur #ChildhoodMemories #WhereDidTheTimeGo

Investing in mentorship has been pivotal in refining my sales approach, enabling me to better serve my clients and elevate their brands. Tag your favorite mentor in the comments below! 👇 I adore @thesalesgirlsofficial Their podcast is fire! My dear friend @rewlovesu sent me their podcast a couple of years ago and been tuning in ever since. And, they hang out with @omareltakrori my favorite Youtube mentor! . . . . #BrandingPhotography #Entrepreneurship #Mentorship #SalesSkills #BusinessGrowth

"Every good and perfect gift comes from above." - JJ Heller Vivid Kansas skies over Hutchinson, KS painting the perfect backdrop for this beautiful family's final moments as a trio. Mom, Dad, and big brother soaking in these precious days before their newest addition makes his arrival! Looking forward to meeting this little man soon! Can't wait for newborn photos with this growing family. 💙 . . . . #HutchinsonKSPhotographer #KansasNewbornPhotography #HutchinsonFamilyPhotos #KSBabyPhotographer #HutchinsonMaternity #KansasFamilyOfFour #RenoCoBabyPhotos #HutchinsonKSNewborn #SaltCityNewborns #KansasMotherhood #outdoormaternity #maternityphotos #lifestylenewborn #flashpointphoto #flashpoint #offcameraflash

Personal Branding in 2025: Are You Standing Out? The online world is louder than ever. If you’re not actively building your personal brand, you’re blending in. Your personal brand is what makes people remember you, trust you, and choose you over the competition. And guess what? It all starts with a strong first impression—aka your headshot. A professional photo tells the world: You’re serious about your brand You’re credible & trustworthy You’re ready for big opportunities Stop letting outdated selfies or cropped group pics represent you! It’s time to own your image, elevate your brand, and attract the right people. Booking your headshots with me is EASY! DM me to get started. Let’s make 2025 the year you stand out. . . . . #PersonalBranding #Headshots #LevelUp

Do Work That Matters, Not Just Work That Pays It is so easy to do enough. But what happens when you do better? Serving your clients to the best of your ability means so much! As a photographer, I've always been inspired by @thechrisdo Chris Do's philosophy: "Do work that matters, not just work that pays." His wisdom reminds us that true fulfillment comes when our craft serves a purpose beyond the transaction. When I capture your brand through my lens, I'm committed to creating images that tell your authentic story—images that matter to you, your business, and the clients you serve. Like Chris teaches, excellence isn't just about technical skill, but about the intention and purpose behind every creative decision. It's about seeing beyond what's expected and delivering what's exceptional. . . . #BrandPhotography #PurposefulCreative #ChrisDo #VisualStorytelling

Tuesday tip a date, when they say, mom, will you play wff me (kid way of saying with) ?! And that sunset last night. 🧡🧡 . . . #mindsetcoach #boymamalife #personalbranding #hutchinsonks #contentcreator #socialmediamarketing #socialmediamanager

Exist in the photo. Show up. Post it messy. Do it anyway.

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