P52 - Final Week- 2013 in Review

Here we are in 2014 and I'm just getting to my final post for P52 for 2013. Ah, such is life these days. When I started this project last year, I was busy. But, I had NO idea how much busier life would become. Starting a business is no easy task. Building a business the first year is all consuming. This year will be my second in business and I will focus on growing my client base while upping my game. I can assume it will take just as much of my time each week. While I hope to streamline some aspects of the day to day admin tasks, as well as my editing process, I am pretty sure I will still be up to my eyeballs in work. At least, I hope so, because we really need the income. But, I do have high hopes of refining my style, improving my craft and simplifying the process from client contact to product delivery.

By the end of this holiday portrait season, I was exhausted and burned out. The holidays passed in a blur, with little break for me. I only took a day and a half on Christmas Eve & Christmas. I have made many sacrifices over the past year, buy sacrificing time with my family is my least favorite. It is all a learning process though, and I am so very thankful for all of my family, friends and clients who have supported my efforts over the past year. One day at a time, I will keep climbing.

 Last year my inspiration word was focus. I focused on improving my photography and building my business. I did see major leaps in the quality of my work, and I was able to book 69 clients and three weddings. Though my first business license was purchased in Nov 2012, I really didn't get a paid gig until late May 2013, so that accounts for about 7 months of shooting. I am humbled and grateful that so many people would entrust me with their memories.

 I have decided that my word for 2014 will be reach. I want to push myself harder and reach further. To shoot with greater intention. To stretch myself creatively and really produce work that I love. Sometimes the business of running a business makes it difficult to really take the time to work on shooting the way I would like to. But, having so many new faces, personalities and locations in front of my camera has forced me to grow and learn on the fly. In 2014, I would like to take a step back and be more thoughtful and precise as I shoot. I also hope to dedicate some time to workshops and port folio reviews for critique. So reach is my word. If 2013 was the year of "on my way" and "almost", I want 2014 to be the year of "I am Gumby" and "nailed it!"

Thank you 2013 for all you have taught me. It was a year of struggle, sacrifice and growth. And a year of gratitude and learning to lean on others a little more because I simply couldn't do it all myself. Here's to a new year! 2014 I know you will be filled with hard work and smothered in awesomesauce and I can't wait to meet the challenge.

On a personal note, I wish I had a better grasp on balance between work, family life, homeschooling and personal projects. My time with family suffered this year, as did my blog. I will strive to find better balance in 2014. I am filled with gratitude for all who have stood by me and cheered me on throughout 2013. I know I have neglected you and I am truly sorry. My parents, sisters, in laws and most especially my husband have been so helpful and generous that I simply can't thank them enough.  And to my friends: several of you have gone out of your way to visit, email, message, connect with and support me. From the bottom of my heart I thank you!! It truly means so very much to me and I love you dearly. You know who you are and I send you a giant hug and my heartfelt thanks! ;)

As a review of 2013, I put together a few of my favorite instagram moments from the past year, since I tend to take more photos of my family with my phone these days. So many great memories captured! <3 p="">

Whew! I did it. I finished P52 by the skin of my teeth. I am so grateful to all who participated and gave me the push to do it, and especially to our lovely hostesses Gina and Tamar!