Sachiko in Japanese, means happiness.
—
As a mom of four, I know how hectic life can get. I’ve spent my entire adult life searching for a career I love so much it doesn't feel like a job, and I found it in photography.
I’m Nadine Sachiko, and in 2011, after careers as a professional race car driver and an accountant, I founded Sachiko Studio. After seeing so many clients arrive at shoots feeling stressed and frantic, I knew I had to offer a better way. I transformed my studio into the premier luxury portrait destination in the SGV, providing a best-in-class, all-inclusive experience. We take care of the beauty, wardrobe, and custom sets so you can just show up and be pampered.
The Photographer & Entrepreneur
I’m in my 14th year as a professional photographer, and I’m in a perfect groove at the studio. I’ve built a business that allows me the freedom to pursue my other passions, including my work as a boutique accounting firm owner with a dedicated team. My love for racing still burns bright, and while my racing days are less frequent, my passion lives on through my children's book series, “Sachiko Goes Racing,” and my role as a podcast host and producer for The Drifting Pretty Podcast and my husband’s podcast, "The Sileightymania Podcast."
My Creative Crew
My greatest joy is my family. My four daughters, ages 28, 17, 11, and 9, are a constant source of inspiration. My oldest is a full-time Ui/UX Designer who graduated from Art Center, and my second-oldest attends California School of the Arts. My two youngest are artists and creative writers, confirming that my husband and I are truly raising a troop of creative girls.
A Life of Purpose
Giving back is central to my personal and professional life. I donate a percentage of all studio sales to charity, provide photoshoots to worthy causes, and sponsor local sports teams. I also volunteer regularly at my home church, Monterey Park Chinese Baptist Church. When I'm not working or giving back, I make time for myself by dancing with an all-mom hip-hop crew, trail running, and collecting sneakers and kimonos.
My Background
My career in photography was born from a pivotal realization. As a professional racecar driver and founder of the Drifting Pretty non-profit in 2003, I experienced firsthand what it felt like to be photographed in an uncomfortable environment. This led me to photograph the women of Drifting Pretty myself, building my skills and confidence by creating a space where they felt seen and at ease. When my best friends gifted me my first camera in 2011, I officially began my journey as a portrait photographer.
In 2015, my life took an unexpected turn. After reaching the peak of my accounting career, I suddenly lost my job. My husband helped me realize this was a chance to finally go all-in on my passion. I took the leap, focusing on photography full-time while offering accounting consulting remotely. The studio business quickly blossomed, and I became the top photo studio in the SGV.
Today, I’m so grateful for the community of returning clients who have helped me build my dream. Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey and for your incredible support of my little photo studio.