HI! I’m Sam.

Alternative Photographer

A woman with wavy brown hair wearing a sleeveless black dress and black boots twirls gracefully outdoors. She smiles at the camera amid lush greenery, large trees, and glowing orbs, capturing enchanting southern CA vibes.
binge watcher
nature lover
quiet observer
AND ASPIRING MORNING PERSON

Calm, cozy solitude with a damn fine cup of coffee. A gentle hand caressing your hair. Breathing in deeply after a killer workout. Long, leisurely dinner parties with loved ones.

That joy, that warmth, and that comfort are some of my favorite things. I look to those deep connections and those marvelous moments in time. THAT is where the spirit of my work lives.

I tell your story both as it exists and how it feels. Together, we document the present and simultaneously create images that embody how you remember it.

video by the Byrd Sisters

I Believe
  • in you doing you
  • that friends & family are everything
  • in the power of music, laughter, and the ocean
  • that most dresses should have pockets
  • in intention
  • in keeping it chill

Leave everything you were outside this door. Everything you are, bring with you.

— Penny Dreadful

A woman in black rollerblades and athletic wear leans on a white bridge railing, soaking in the chill vibes. Behind her, a canal mirrors the colorful sunset sky, with houses and greenery lining both banks.
I Adore
  • all black everything
  • the smell of rain
  • candlelight & moody ambiance
  • the 90s
  • dry, dark, and/or British humor
  • the strange & unusual
Features + Recognitions

Couple’s Choice Award

Best of Zola

Southern California Bride

Wezoree

VoyageLA interview | 2018

VoyageLA interview | 2023

the Support Staff
A profile portrait of a dog with a striking, wind-blown fur mane, predominantly black, with tan and white accents. it wears a simple black collar and is set against a dark background, highlighting its profile.

MOXIE

  • OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
  • also goes by mox

16 years of experience. The OG. The sweetest and the cuddliest.

A woman with shoulder-length dark hair sits on the floor against a gray textured backdrop. She wears a sleeveless black dress and black heeled ankle boots, with one arm resting on her knees and her chin balanced on her hand, gazing thoughtfully at the camera.

It’s like, how much more black could this be? And the answer is none. None more black.

— This Is Spinal Tap

Personal Work

the Story so Far

2003

During my good old days at USC, I focused on a few of my favorite things: English, Film, and Photography.

That meant a ton of literature (especially from the Romantic & Victorian eras), endless movies, and days-long stints in the darkroom. It was AWESOME.

A woman with short, dark red hair faces right, holding a small brown dog with pointed ears and a black collar. Both look in the same direction. The background is dark blue, and the lighting highlights their profiles and close bond.

2007

After college, I began working at a snazzy post-production lab that specialized in commercial, entertainment, and fine art photography.

I went on to become the producer & studio manager for a celebrity photographer, and then I ended up back in the realm of post-production via a boutique retouching house.

2012

Officially launched Sam Turchin Photo.

It was both terrifying and exhilarating.

Owning your own business is a TRIP.

2016

A year of staggering highs and lows. Started to specialize and find my groove. Many firsts; very few lasts.

Onwards and upwards!

2026

14 years in business.
250+ weddings under my belt.
550+ sessions done and delivered.

Truly countless and never-ending editing hours. Send help.

A black and white portrait of an expressive woman wearing glasses, a dark blazer, and a deep-neck top. she has her mouth wide open in a shout or scream and is pulling her blazer apart, standing against a dark background.

The journey never ends. Join me!

Let’s go bowling.