At the beginning of May I had my own little anniversary date; May 3 marked the date of my first official photo session. I won’t lie, I look back on those first photos in my portfolio and I cringe a little (a lot) but I also celebrate because I have come far since those beginning days. I have failed far more than I have succeeded thus far but out of that I have grown in knowledge, in skill and in confidence. And while I still have so far to go, it’s a little piece of joy to look back and be able to say that I am a totally different photographer today than I was back then.
My hope for next year is that I can look back and cherish where I am right now; WHO I am right now because I think the recognition of how far one has come is important but remembering who you were is just as important. A year ago, I was holding myself back in protection from the fear of the unknown but today I am purposefully running full stride in the direction of fear and uncertainty. I know my failures will be numerous but that’s ok because playing it safe is no longer in my vocabulary.
I am so grateful to the clients and friends I have gained since the beginning of this journey. I have been entrusted with documenting one of the most important events in a couple’s life and I am being honest when I say I am totally honored by their trust.
Saturday was the first wedding of my second wedding season ever and let me tell you, it set the bar pretty high; can’t wait to share. Until then, Happy Anniversary to me and a heartfelt thank you to my clients, friends and support system for pushing me and believing in me. I would not be here without you.
Hooray!! Here’s to many more years. You are super awesome.
Happy anniversary! So proud of you! I’ll toast you for your year and a halfish in UT :)
love your defined style already, mel. congrats to you, and i think we both know that things will keep getting better, and better and better :)
Congratulations Melissa! You’re awesome, but you already know that ;)
Congrats, my friend! Very exciting and momentous occasion, and I’m glad you’re celebrating it with lots of positive thoughts and pride in all you’ve accomplished!
Congratulations, Melissa!! Your work is superb–can’t wait to see all the goodies this next year brings you!
Melissa, That picture is absolutely gorgeous. Super awesome. Can’t wait to shoot with you again this summer!
i’m not just trying to flatter when i say that you have a style all your own these days when many lifestyle photographers’ work looks exactly the same. you stay true to yourself and don’t seem to follow the trend. yours is recognizable, unique, heartfelt and honest, and i love it. keep up the great work and congratulations!
Congratulations!! So exciting that you have come so far :)
You’ve had an amazing first year on this journey, my friend. Congrats!