I just had the best first year ever; the first year being my first year as a wedding photographer. It is now the end of 2015, and who would have thought that quitting your job to pursue your passion was the best possible idea. Oh wait, everyone thinks that… pretty much every day but they never do it. Well let me tell you, do it! Work your ass off to make your dreams come true because it feels phenomenal.
In this past year I have learned so much, made so many new friends, started a business, bought a home, rescued a dog, travelled a lot and hopefully, made so many people happy when they look through their photos. The feeling I get when I meet all of you and get to document your happiness is next to none. Getting home and putting your photos on my computer makes my heart race and once I deliver them, I sit in anticipation hoping I have made you cry if I am going to be truly honest. Cry in a good way of course.
Starting your own business, especially in the arts, is not always the easiest, most assuring or the kind of job that your family is going to say, “WOW what a great idea and secure career choice, you will probably make so much money!” It’s the opposite. Not many people support it because it’s one of the less secure jobs but a little love, perseverance and a lot of hard work will get you there and your supporters will come along with that. My parents, husband and close friends were always by my side however. Staying true to yourself and believing in yourself is key to being successful I think.
That’s not to say you won’t get run down. You will. It’s exhausting. You will be the first person awake and the last person to bed because your one person show is so much more than you ever thought it was going to be, your social life will take a back seat, you may develop some anxiety due to stress, but more importantly, you will never be happier. At least that has been my path and I would never turn back. If anything, I would have started long ago.
Every day I get to learn something new, which is so refreshing. I get to meet new people whether they hire me or because I walked up to them on the street because they seem interesting. I see people’s most important moments and I get to freeze those moments for them, which is the ultimate honour. I get to travel a lot. I get to express my emotions through photographs, and in case you couldn’t tell, I have a lot of emotions. It’s likely overwhelming for some but I can’t help myself. All of you bring it out in me.
Overall I had the most kick ass, eye opening, adventurous, loving, growing, wonderful year of my life. I owe it all to you.
Thank you. I love you.
Dani
oxox
Dear god, I didn’t realize that this is your first year in business?! You shoot like you have many more to your name! It makes your work even more special. so, so many good things in your future! Thanks for continuing to share!
Oh my goodness thank you so much! I was always the girl with the camera but then I decided to learn from others and also train myself and dedicate myself so I could turn it into my livelihood and I am so happy I did!