A Look Back Through My 2014

     2014. Gosh what a year it has been. I'm not going to lie but every time I begin to write this end of the year post I think... what interesting things have happened this year? And then I begin to pour through the photographs and am just in absolute awe of how much we can grow within a year. Looking back I honestly can't believe how much has happened... and how much each experience has molded and defined me. 
     I had the absolute pleasure of working with so many couples and seniors this year... and I photographed two weddings! I am beyond grateful for all of these opportunities, but mostly for all of the amazing people in my life that constantly support my dreams and keep me going... even when I feel like I can't.
     I got to travel to Italy and see my family and even visited Sorrento for the first time. I also attended my first workshop and met so many talented photographers... it made me realize how much there is always more to learn and I'm so eager to soak up as much as I can!
     You know that old saying "It doesn't happen overnight"? Well it doesn't but... it does happen over many nights if you keep learning, practicing, and keeping faith that you are on your right path. How about if there are many twists, and SURPRISE!! THISWASN'TSUPPOSEDTOHAPPENNOW along the way? Well... I realize that even though you sometimes may go astray, the "mistakes" or other paths may essentially open up another door you were supposed to end up on anyway! I know I know, it's so much to really understand, but trust me I'm a firm believer everything happens for a reason. 
     Finally, while looking through all of my work and growth that I have done throughout the year.... it wouldn't feel right without saying all of the credit and glory goes to a God that's so great... that he shares a piece of His heart with me. For every single photograph I capture, every idea that comes to my mind... is His light that shines through me. I am simply photographing what He already made beautiful.  
     To my 2014 Clients: Thank you thank you thank you for trusting in me.... I owe you my heart for allowing me to use my passion for capturing the precious moments in your life. I urge everyone to look back through their year and see just how much you've accomplished... it may surprise you. I can't wait to see what 2015 brings!!! ♥

Thanks to Jamie for capturing this behind the scenes shot at my first wedding.... you get the best 2nd shooter award! ♥

 

Holiday Gift Guide for Photographers

It's that time of year again! Believe it or not, we only have about two weeks left until Christmas! I know crazy right?! If you haven't finished your holiday shopping yet and have a photographer friend, I put together a few gifts that they would love. I'm warning you though... you may be tempted to buy them for yourself ;) Happy Shopping!

Instax 90 Neo Classic Instant Camera
I haven't purchased this camera yet, but it has been on my list for a long time!

Rifle Paper Co. Phone Cases
These phone covers are the prettiest... I just purchased myself one and some are now on sale for a limited time!

ZGallerie Ceramic Flash Camera
These pretty ceramic cameras would look great in any office or room.

Shooting with Soul book by Alexandra Cave
I'm always on the lookout for books to learn new techniques and ideas... this one seems informative and fun!  

The Power Wallet from PhotoJojo
This little wallet is super cool! It doubles as a battery charger and wallet!

The Bowery bag by ONA
If you feel like splurging on a friend (or yourself!), this bag is definitely worth it. I finally purchased it before my trip this year...and it's beautiful! Both stylish and comfortable to carry your camera and favorite lens around.

Dear Barbara

I often imagine what God would write to me if he could send us letters. We would probably want Him to tell us exactly what we need, the answers to our one million questions, the solution to our problems... the reason as to why we are going through a terrible situation. Many times I just want God to show me what it is I am supposed to do... what does He want me to do? And so though I don't know what exactly he would say to me and cannot speak for God, I do imagine it could sound something like this...

Dear Barbara, 

     My beloved child. I hear your thoughts and I know your heart. I know at times you may think that I am not present in your life and your prayers go unanswered, but I want you to know that I was there beside you before you were even born. I held you and kept you safe and I have never left. For your dreams are my dreams, your joys are my joys, and your tears are my tears. 

     Though you cannot see me, I see you. When you laughed from happiness, I leaped for joy right by you. When you were scared, I was there to keep you away from harm, and when you cried...I wept right beside you. You are never alone. Do not worry. I know everything may seem impossible right now, but trust in Me. That's all you need to do. Just trust in Me. Smile, I will take care of the rest. 

I love you more than you know,

Jesus

     This letter can really be written to anyone. At times life can get quite hazy between things that happen, and just not knowing whether you are on the right path. It takes time to grow in your faith, and at times you just feel broken and empty. But I'm learning that God takes your brokenness and with time makes it into something beautiful. It's not easy, I am coming to understand. But for God nothing is impossible. Just because you don't have what you want now... doesn't mean you never will. It just means the time hasn't come...yet. Or maybe God has something better planned. 

     It's so much easier to see something and say "Yes it is possible...I've seen it!", but the real test is can you still have faith if you can't see anything? The good news is this: though we can only see until the end of the road...God can see the entire map, over the hills and through the thick forest. Isn't that a relief? What we may want may not always be what's best for us sometimes... but I trust that God has it all figured out and is way better than what I can imagine for myself. 

     If this post reaches you and you are going through a tough time...remember don't give up. Just because you can't see past the road.... God can! He has it all under control. Smile, He loves you more than you know.