Today we’d like to introduce you to Andy.
Andy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The Life Discussion of Andy Samarasena
Andy Samarasena’s life is one of service, creativity, and leadership, spanning the fields of banking, photography, filmmaking, and philanthropy.
Born in Sri Lanka, Andy migrated to the United States in the early 1980s, where he built a distinguished career in banking that now spans over 38 years. He currently serves as Vice President at Community West Bank, where he is recognized for his integrity, relationship-driven approach, and dedication to helping families and businesses succeed.
Alongside his professional career, Andy has established himself as a highly respected photographer with more than three decades of experience. Specializing in weddings, portraits, and cultural events, he has photographed celebrities including Morgan Freeman, Michael Bolton, Gladys Knight, Olivia Newton-John, Seal, Sheila E., and many Sri Lankan cinema legends including Late Malini Fonseka. His work has been exhibited internationally in multiple countries and publications, and in 2023 he won 1st place in the Winning Images Competition in San Luis Obispo for his photograph of the Gal Viharaya in Sri Lanka. This award-winning image was selected as the cover of multiple publications in Sri Lanka and USA.
Andy has also contributed significantly to Sri Lankan and American cinema. He served as producer and director of cinematography for the Sinhala film Sihina Lowak Soyaa and as co-producer of Tom Pachayo, with Sihina Lowak Soyaa partially filmed in Santa Barbara County. In 2016, his short film Ani Valentine, produced in Santa Barbara County, won the Best Screenplay at the prestigious Santa Barbara International Film Festival’s 10-10-10 competition.
Deeply committed to philanthropy, Andy has worked tirelessly to give back to his homeland. Following the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, he led a Rotary Club team to Sri Lanka that built 100 homes for displaced families. He is also an avid blood donor, having made over 200 platelet donations that have saved the lives of cancer patients and newborns. Locally, Andy serves on the Board of Community Partners in Caring and as part of the Executive Leadership Team of the Santa Barbara County Alzheimer’s Association, advancing causes close to his heart.
Through his diverse pursuits banking, photography, filmmaking, and philanthropy, Andy Samarasena has built a life defined by creativity, service, and impact. His journey reflects a rare balance of professional excellence, artistic vision, and humanitarian commitment, inspiring both his local and global communities.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t necessarily call them struggles, but there were definitely challenges along the way. One of the biggest was immigrating to a new country and starting life all over again. In the early 1980s, moving from Sri Lanka to Santa Barbara County was a major transition, new culture, new environment, and learning to fully adapt to the language and lifestyle.
That said, it turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. With the support of my parents, along with hard work and determination, I was able to acclimate and build a life here in a place I’m proud to call home.
Those early challenges really shaped who I am today. They taught me resilience, appreciation, and the importance of staying committed to your goals, no matter how unfamiliar the path may seem in the beginning.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I actually have two professions. My main career is in banking, but there are plenty of great bankers here in Santa Barbara, so I don’t usually lead with that. The second career, the one I’m really proud of and truly enjoy is photography. It’s been my creative outlet, especially alongside a busy and sometimes stressful business life.
I started photography over 30 years ago as a hobby. I had a small camera that I could afford at the time, and honestly, I was completely self-taught. I remember sitting down with the camera manual and reading it over and over until I actually understood how everything worked. There was no internet back then, no YouTube, no digital cameras so it was all about patience and learning by doing.
My first real break came when a coworker at the bank asked me to photograph her wedding. I was pretty nervous because I didn’t have much experience, but I said yes. Luckily, the bride and groom loved the photos, and from there, things just kind of grew naturally. People started referring me to others, and before I knew it, I was photographing weddings regularly. Over the years, I ended up doing hundreds of them and opened my studio (Studio SB Photography) in Santa Barbara in 2006.
More recently, I’ve found myself drawn to landscape and wildlife photography. It’s a different pace more peaceful, more reflective and I really enjoy that side of it.
I think what I’m most proud of is that none of this was planned. It all came from passion and consistency. I didn’t follow a traditional path or formal training I just kept learning, showing up, and doing my best. I think what sets me apart is that everything I do comes from a very genuine place. I care about people, I care about the moments I’m capturing, and I always try to bring that into my work.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is relationships. At the end of the day, everything comes down to the connections we build with people—family, friends, colleagues, and the community around us.
Throughout my life, whether it’s in banking, photography, or my volunteer work, relationships have always been at the center. In banking, it’s about trust and really understanding the people you work with. In photography, it’s about connecting with people and capturing meaningful moments in their lives. And in giving back, it’s about caring for others and being there when it matters.
*****Please email a link for me to upload more photos from my home computer****
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.studiosb1.com
- Instagram: @andysamphoto
