Meet Zahra Haider | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Zahra Haider and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zahra, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’m a first generation immigrant who grew up in Dallas from age 5. Like many immigrants, my parents worked hard but still struggled with finances. I always hoped to be able to use their sacrifices to create a more secure life for myself. After I graduated from Trinity High School, I was admitted to a top journalism program in the country at Northwestern University. I studied multimedia, film, and politics and launched my career in documentary journalism. I met my husband and we decided to settle down in Dallas, where both our families had roots. While I found a career in journalism, I missed my passion for art and photography. I realized I finally had an opportunity to create something beautiful in Dallas and work with people again outside of news stories. So my partner and I founded Black Iris Photography, a production company that specializes in moody, dramatic photography and film that draws an audience and captivates the viewer. I saw a lot of similarity in other photographers approaching their art with the same bright and airy vibe, but I wanted to go for something darker and more edgy — an artistic quality I grew to love in my documentary work. Now, I work with new people every weekend as I grow my client base and build long term relationships with creators, families and couples all around the metroplex.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Black Iris Photography is a photo and video business based in Dallas with a moody and edgy aesthetic. At a time when most photographers create similar bright and airy visuals in their shoots, Black Iris aims for something more: compelling photographs that draw an audience. We provide a wide array of services, including for photography for portraits, families, maternity, weddings, graduations, influencers, and special events. We also have experience in and a passion for travel photography and film productions. Our background as Pakistani Muslims lends us to support diverse audiences when it comes to cultural events and traditions, such as desi weddings, and a range of other inclusive services. Please reach out with any inquiries via blackirisphotos.com.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love to spend time in Adriatica Village! So beautiful and it’s hard to believe it’s in Texas!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My successful photography business wouldn’t be possible without my partner Danish Shah, who runs our business operations with expertise and steps in on the production side with his own talents. Thanks for everything Danish!

Website: https://blackirisphotos.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/black.iris.photos

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/black.iris.photo

Image Credits
Black Iris Photography