15/52 // surreal?

it's such a strange feeling. I chose (fell into?) a career that requires empathy and creativity, and I didn't even realize it starting out. 

this job has been the most bizarre thing for God to just slip into my life and continue to cultivate. 

I had no idea what I was getting into and probably would not have continued to pursue it if I had not started out in complete overconfidence.

stream in the adirondacks

I think I didn't actually believe I could get to where I am now. so that's encouraging.

photo cred: blythe elizabeth photography

this is a thank you, in a way, to everyone who supported me when I started out and had very little idea what I was doing - and to everyone who continues to support and encourage me now that I have a little better idea. I have spent countless hours comparing myself to others, so many nights frustrated with my own work (#artistprobs), but almost as many "eureka" moments and happy squeals behind the camera or during editing marathons.

salt flats of nevada

the places that I have been because of my opportunities feed my gypsy heart and obsession with beauty and exploring like none other. my wanderlust could not ask for a more fulfilling career. I know I don't deserve it and I don't know how long I get to do it, but I'm soaking in every moment while I can.

mobile office

when I say I could not have made it to where I am today without people around me, I'm not just saying it. the support of my family emotionally and practically is so beyond what I could have ever knew I needed. the countless people who have trusted me to preserve the preciousness of their lives in an art form still blows me away. the more experienced photographers who have given me tips that have been engraved in my brain. the other creatives that have walked alongside me. my best friend for always helping me choose a sneak peak. my brother for geeking out over equipment with me. the families and friends of clients that have taken me into their hearts and homes. the clients that have turned into lifelong friends.

backpack contents

this is my focusing face, apparently.

 I've made so many silly mistakes and I continue to, but I continue to learn from them. I continue to get better. I plan on improving for the rest of my career, whatever God has planned for it. I promise to do my absolute best whenever I am giving the opportunity to photograph.

to the glory of God alone, I'm in the middle of the rewards of consistency and perseverance (THOSE ARE HARD THINGS FOR ME). it's so motivating, exciting, terrifying, beautiful, beyond me. 

like, wait a minute. breath. take it all in. shake my head and open my eyes again. this is happening? so surreal.