Sam Monot
We’re stoked to have our good friend Sam with us for this week’s Dreamos Round Table! Sam’s a wedding and portrait photographer building his dreams in Geneva, Switzerland.
It’s Sam’s passion to highlight the details that define the stories of others, translating them authentically and creatively into unique visual experiences. More than simply a photo, Sam looks beyond the surface to capture the depth of emotion that truly brings an image to life.
With every new production and every next shot, Sam continues to move in faith, creating meaningful memories and inspiring hope in others. We know you’ll be encouraged and inspired as you hear more from his heart, story, and pursuit.
What dream are you currently turning into reality?
For the past six years, I’ve been pursuing my dream of being a Wedding and Portrait Fine-Art Photographer. But, more recently, I’ve realized my ultimate dream is to simply let God take control of my life. I’ve always believed, “With God all things are possible,” and although it’s the truth I live by, I was only applying it to how it relates to my career and success - What I could control. I felt as though I was kind of “hijacking” God’s power for my personal gain. I now know God is not at my bidding, I am at His, and I am pursuing that truth.
When did you first realize you discovered your dream?
I honestly just kind of stumbled into it after buying a DSLR in 2011. Funny enough, it was actually a Christmas gift I had gotten for my wife. As time went on, I discovered photography to be my true passion. A defining moment came when I took a photo of my two children emulating a well known Baroque painter. Falling in love with the process, I realized that I could create something meaningful and use my creativity to inspire and even help others. To this date, this picture is still one of my favorites! I think that our creativity reflects who we are, but mostly who God is.
How does your faith go hand in hand with pursuing your dream?
Every time I took matters into my own hands, it led me to frustration and fear. The truth is, if God isn’t in control, something else is, and it will control you to a negative degree. Giving myself completely to God provided me freedom, knowing that He will meet all of my needs.
What’s one or two practical steps you take to keep moving forward?
When I’m anxious about a new project, I regularly battle unbelief and fear with one of my favorite promise: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous hand” (Isaiah 41.10). Surrendering to God is a daily choice - It’s choosing to look at our life through God’s lens.
What encouragement would you give someone who’s going after their dream?
Put God first in everything you do. Even when it’s tough and you’re not sure where the road may lead, don’t give up. There is no failure, except in no longer trying. If God has planted that dream in your heart, then He will lead you there.