2018 has been an incredible year for both myself, and my business. I shot 16 wedding, 34 sessions, I got married, met the most amazing couples, and grew in more ways than I could have ever imagined! I can't even begin to express my gratitude to the clients who trusted me to capture their most important days. This was the year I took my first solo trip, first big gear purchase, first year as a legal registered business, first international wedding booked, first year dealing with self employment taxes (blech) and so much more. I decided since this year is coming to an end, I wanted to put together a post sharing my favourite memories from it all. Below are some of my best memories, favourite photos, most challenging moments, and even times I made mistakes - but all moments that helped bring me to where I am today as a photographer - and I'll never forget.
I threw together a slideshow to showcase my 2018 In Review, but you can also find each individual photo below. Enjoy :)
I hope anyone that is reading this, whether you're a friend, a client, or a fellow photographer - don't give up on your dreams. I know it sounds cliche and I hate even pointing that out, but its seriously SO important to believe in yourself and just put that first foot forward. A year ago, I had no idea that I'd be where I am today. I had no idea that I'd be able to support myself and my husband through photography and be able to work from home in my pyjamas everyday. Some days it sucks (that's for another blog post) but most days it's amazing and I'm so so grateful. I give all glory and thanks to God for putting the work before me once I made the leap to chase this dream. He's been so faithful and has truly blessed me and this business.
If there is one thing that I've learned this year, it's to "live for a living." I've always been a firm believer of doing a job that makes you happy. I've tried jobs that provided financial security and benefits and a nice cozy desk, but I wasn't happy. I didn't feel like I was making a difference, which is really important to me in a job. Once I decided to do photography full time, everything fell into place. I was excited to work and serve my clients everyday, I had new ideas coming to me constantly and I was finally "living" instead of "working." I have a lot of thoughts on this and I think I might have to write another blog post on this idea later - but for now - DO WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY. Find what you're passionate about and good at and run with it.
And with that, thank you again to every client that trusted me this year and allowed me to live for a living. I so look forward to the years ahead of serving amazing couples and just seeing where the Lord takes me.