One afternoon in February, I was at the studio preparing for a photo session when I get a text from a client. It was simply a screenshot from Newschannel Nebraska for a contest they had, and the word "winner" below it.
I responded back thanking her for voting for me as I honestly knew nothing about the contest. Then she proceeded to tell me that I won the category for best photographer of Northeast Nebraska! Apparently, the contest had been going on for about a month prior, and they were finally sharing the results. I was completely flabbergasted to hear the news that I had won a competition, so I only shared to news with those closest to me.
When the news station brought the award into the studio, that was when it really sunk in that I won. I shared the news on my social media pages and was instantly flooded with so much love that it brought me to tears.
For the past year or so, I have been doing a lot of praying and seeking guidance for what to do next in my life. As much as I love photography, sometimes being a business owner is utterly exhausting. With the economy making it harder for families to splurge on luxury items like family portraits, to the constant feeling of rejection when someone does not book, and of course the self doubt when you repeatedly hear that you are "too pricey," it takes a toll; A big toll on a person's mental health and well being. When I see photographer after photographer close up shop after years in business and it makes me wonder, "Will I be next?"
The past six months have tested my strength more than I could have ever imagined. Right in the middle of my busy season, my mother shattered her ankle while helping me clean up after a day of Christmas mini sessions. What we thought would be a quick trip to the ER turned into a four day stay at the hospital, two surgeries, and around the clock care for both her and my father who is diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
I was thrown into figuring out how to care for both of my parents, finish out my busy season, and manage my home life all while trying to keep my own health in check. I felt exhaustion like I had never felt before. I had so much anxiety about all the things that I could not control so I just gave it all to God.
My world started to go back to normal in early February when my mom was finally back to walking, and driving, and taking care of my dad. What started out as a huge burden, turned into a blessing in disguise. I spent more time with my parents than I had in years. Seeing them nearly everyday brought us closer together than we already were. It has also given me time to reflect on my life and how incredibly thankful I am that I do have a job that lets me take time off to care for loved ones. I have also been able to focus on where I see my business going in the next five, ten, even twenty years from now. (God willing)
2025 has already been a year of new growth. I am venturing out more into the business branding world which has been a lot of fun! I have been working with several local businesses updating their social media content, as well as, providing updated professional headshots.
I have also been providing more fine art maternity portrait sessions at the studio. These portrait sessions have really lit the fire back inside of me. There is nothing quite like photographing a woman who may not feel the most confident, and seeing them light up when they view their photos for the first time. Pregnancy is such a beautiful thing!
2025 also continues to bring in so many precious newborns and I have several senior portraits on the calendar too!
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