First, we have a winner for the 2009 Photo of the Year! Drum roll …………

And the winner is, Baby Evelyn! Congratulations! And thank you so much for everyone who took the time to vote and for all of your sweet comments. It means so very much to me to get your feedback, because that’s really what this business is about … you!
So much has happened this year, not the least of which was the creation of this little venture. When I decided to take a stab at going into business, I really had no idea what to expect. I knew that I had the support and encouragement of those around me {blessings}, and without that, I would have never gotten over my fears and insecurities. I have been surprised and overwhelmed at the response I’ve received. Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined such a successful and satisfying first 6 months in business{blessings}. I want to take the opportunity to thank some really awesome people who have gotten me this far. First of all, I have to thank my amazing husband. He has let me bounce hours and hours worth of ideas off of him, he has encouraged me when my confidence faltered, he has helped me proof my website along with countless other documents, and he is the best business partner I could have ever asked for {blessings}. My sweet Emory, my muse, she is my inspiration {blessings}. My family and friends have also offered so much help and support – babysitting Emory during shoots, looking over my work, and advertising for me like it was their job {blessings}. There were a couple of other photographers (you know who you are) who really helped me get on my feet (and stay there) - they gave me advice, answered countless questions, and helped me with supplies and suppliers {blessings}. During these few short months in business, I’ve met a great group of photographers who are always willing to share ideas, locations, tips, etc. - they have been a huge help {blessings}. Of course, I can’t forget all of my fabulous clients. I appreciate the fact that they took a risk on a relatively new photographer, and I really appreciate the testimonials and referrals that let me know they were glad they did {blessings}. I hope that I will see all of them again in 2010! I also know that I have some “fans” (a Facebook term, not mine) who may be clients-to-be or just supporters from afar, and I value their support and feedback just as much as those I’ve met in person {blessings}. Last but not least, I must give thanks and all the glory to my God who has graciously given me whatever talent that I may possess, and the resources that have enabled me to share it with all of you {blessings}. Blessings upon blessings indeed …
I’m working on some very exciting things for 2010. I don’t want to reveal them all at once, but for starters, I’m just beginning the process of completely redesigning this very blog! I hope that the end result will be much prettier to look at, more user friendly, and a better reflection of what my photography is all about. I’m so excited about this!!! I’m also working on some new products that I’ll be announcing soon as well, so stay tuned! In 2009, I learned so much and really started to shape my style – both shooting and editing. I took a couple of workshops and spent countless hours experimenting, watching tutorials, and working on honing my skills. I plan to continue this process in 2010, and hopefully my work will reflect this effort to constantly improve and bring clarity to my creative eye. I am so looking forward to what 2010 will bring, and I hope that you are too! Thank you so much for reading, and I hope you’ll continue to check back in!