Shadi Ameri Photography, San Diego CA
Sofia Ameri from Shadi Ameri Photography

Sofia Ameri

Shadi Ameri Photography

About Us

I’m Sofia Ameri, a photographer, actress, and branding coach for actors with over 14 years of experience behind the camera and five years in the acting industry. My mission is to help actors refine their brand, enhance their visibility, and book more auditions by aligning their headshots, type, and personal brand with the roles they’re meant to play.

What I Specialize In & What I’m Known For
I specialize in actor branding—helping performers identify their unique selling points (USPs) and translate them into cohesive marketing materials, including headshots, résumés, and online presence. What sets me apart is my ability to see an actor’s true essence and guide them in showcasing their strengths in a way that resonates with casting directors.

I’m known for creating high-impact headshots that don’t just look good but tell a story—ones that get actors noticed. Because I’m also an actor, I understand both sides of the industry, which gives me an edge in coaching others effectively.

What I’m Most Proud Of
I’m incredibly proud of the actors I’ve helped gain confidence, book roles, and take control of their careers through branding. Seeing my clients go from feeling lost in the industry to standing out and securing auditions is the most rewarding part of what I do. I also recently launched my course, Standout Success: Build Your Actor Brand to Book the Role, where I teach actors how to develop a strong brand that attracts casting directors and industry opportunities.

What Sets Me Apart
Unlike traditional headshot photographers, I go beyond taking great photos—I guide actors in defining their brand and making strategic decisions about their career marketing. My unique perspective as both an actor and a branding expert allows me to bridge the gap between creativity and business, helping actors become the obvious choice for the roles they’re meant to play.

At the heart of it all, I’m passionate about empowering actors to step into their fullest potential and navigate the industry with confidence.

How We Got Started

I believe life unfolds in phases, each one preparing us for who we are truly meant to become. Fourteen years ago, I picked up a professional camera for the first time—not for myself, but to help a photographer friend. What happened next was unexpected. The moment I clicked the shutter, something ignited within me. My friend was stunned by the images I captured, and in that instant, I knew I had found my calling. I was convinced photography was my path, and for the next decade, I poured my heart into it.

Then, life surprised me again.

At a networking event, I met an actor who introduced me to the world of acting. I had always loved movies and storytelling, but before that moment, I never believed I was "enough"—not pretty enough, not talented enough, not tall enough, and a hundred other self-doubts. That changed the day I sat in an acting class for the first time. As I watched, listened, and absorbed the energy in the room, I felt something I had never experienced before. I was home.

Products & Services
Headshot Photography by Shadi Ameri Photography
A professional headshot represents you when you're not in the room. Look your very best with headshots from Shadi Ameri Photography. We work with a...
Recommendations Given (23)
"Alberto has been taking care of my taxes since I started my business. He is always quick to..." Read more "Alberto has been taking care of my taxes since I started my business. He is always quick to answer my questions and is very knowledgeable about what he does. I highly recommend Premier Taxes. "
"Cindy has been doing this for decades and she's very knowledgeable and helpful. She's also very..." Read more "Cindy has been doing this for decades and she's very knowledgeable and helpful. She's also very kind and patient with her customers. I highly recommend her. "
Recent Activity

Sofia from Shadi Ameri Photography Answered this on February 11, 2019
every business has a slow season so when that happens it's a good time to network and get out there and introduce yourself to other businesses , also be active on social media (more) every business has a slow season so when that happens it's a good time to network and get out there and introduce yourself to other businesses , also be active on social media

Sofia from Shadi Ameri Photography Answered this on February 11, 2019
work on networking, social media posting , blogging and being active.  (more) work on networking, social media posting , blogging and being active. 

Sofia from Shadi Ameri Photography Answered this on October 01, 2018
It is mostly referral, meaning a friend got her or his photos taken and when they have a great experience they will tell their friends about it so they would want to get the same experience and service. Also they might need professional headshots or a photographer to shoot their special event.... (more) It is mostly referral, meaning a friend got her or his photos taken and when they have a great experience they will tell their friends about it so they would want to get the same experience and service. Also they might need professional headshots or a photographer to shoot their special event. There are many reasons people call to get their photos taken professionally. 

Sofia from Shadi Ameri Photography Answered this on July 06, 2018
I recommend having a beaitiful brouchur to show your work and a great smile. show your best personality.  Follow up with them like a week after .  (more) I recommend having a beaitiful brouchur to show your work and a great smile. show your best personality.  Follow up with them like a week after . 

Sofia from Shadi Ameri Photography Answered this on October 08, 2017
Figure out what kind of photography you want to do then identify your ideal clients. Find ways to target them and get their attention. Collaborate with businesses that can help you target those ideal customers. (more) Figure out what kind of photography you want to do then identify your ideal clients. Find ways to target them and get their attention. Collaborate with businesses that can help you target those ideal customers.

Sofia from Shadi Ameri Photography Answered this on October 08, 2017
I have never done a thumbtack job because those people are not my customers. My work is valuable and I want clients that know the value of my work. Thumbtack is for photographers that want to build their portfolio. (more) I have never done a thumbtack job because those people are not my customers. My work is valuable and I want clients that know the value of my work. Thumbtack is for photographers that want to build their portfolio.

Sofia from Shadi Ameri Photography Answered this on June 21, 2017
I agree with Arturo valle. (more) I agree with Arturo valle.

Sofia from Shadi Ameri Photography Answered this on April 12, 2017
In my opinion facebook, Instagram and Pinterest are very important. (more) In my opinion facebook, Instagram and Pinterest are very important.

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Team

Photographer/Actress/ Branding Coach