WARWICK, MD — Sarah Capparuccini’s evolution from a young photography enthusiast in Cecil County to a professional in the burgeoning cannabis industry serves as an inspiring narrative for aspiring photographers. Her journey highlights the pivotal role of education, mentorship, and familial support in transforming a childhood dream into a thriving career.
Capparuccini’s fascination with photography began early, yet the path to professional success seemed elusive. Encouraged by her mother, she pursued her passion with determination, ultimately securing a position as the staff photographer for SunMed Growers, the fastest-growing company in Cecil County. “Joining SunMed felt like being in the right place at the right time,” Capparuccini remarked, reflecting on how her prior experiences prepared her for this opportunity in the cannabis and photography realms.
Her educational foundation was laid at Cecil College, where she majored in photography in the Visual Communications program (VCP). Under the tutelage of Adam Jacono, Assistant Professor II, Capparuccini honed her skills and gained insights into the freelancing world. “Mr. Jacono’s mentorship was instrumental,” she noted, acknowledging how he helped her navigate pricing, time management, and real-world assignments, setting the stage for her subsequent freelance success.
Before college, Capparuccini’s photography journey saw significant milestones. At Padua Academy, her work received an honorable mention in a scholastic contest, followed by top honors at the Delaware College of Art and Design’s Young Artist Competition, earning her a full scholarship to their pre-college program. This recognition cemented her commitment to photography, despite initial parental skepticism about its viability as a career. Over time, her parents’ support solidified, witnessing her dedication and achievements.
Graduating from Cecil College in 2018, Capparuccini embarked on her first freelance assignment, capturing a nursing convention in Philadelphia. This experience bolstered her confidence and shaped her career trajectory. Yet, challenges emerged. A back injury and the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted her plans, leading her to explore roles beyond photography, including social media management at a cannabis dispensary. This pivot unexpectedly aligned her passion for photography with the cannabis industry, ultimately leading to her role at SunMed Growers.
Capparuccini’s responsibilities at SunMed are diverse, encompassing product and packaging photography, compliance with the Maryland Cannabis Administration, and social media content creation. Her work has received notable recognition, including features in Canna Cribs and Leaf Magazine, where she graced the cover of the 2021 Harvest issue.
Educational influences from Cecil College continue to resonate. Studio classes taught her professional lighting techniques, while video production courses expanded her creative capabilities into video work and stop-motion. Additionally, the skills acquired from Jonathan Cone’s HTML class enhance her email marketing proficiency.
Capparuccini attributes her achievements to a solid educational foundation, mentorship, and a preference for traditional creative techniques over modern AI. Her journey illustrates the transformative power of passion, resilience, and the enduring impact of supportive mentors and family. As she continues to navigate the complexities of her career, Capparuccini’s story remains a testament to the fulfillment derived from pursuing one’s dreams with unwavering dedication.
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