This was the year that brought this decade full circle for me. Finally, I did it! I finally made photography my full-time job. 

I’m pretty sure my 24 year-old self is spinning her head right now somewhere. You see when I was 24 it was 2009 and I was graduating from Northern Arizona University with my B.S. in Photography. At the time, I had zero idea of how I was going to use my degree to make a living. 

And honestly. It took me a while.

I didn’t even think it was possible. 

Until one day at the end of 2016, as I was scrolling through Instagram and noticing how all of these other people were able to make photography work for them. I paused, looked at myself in the mirror and said, why not? You can do this too. What’s there to lose? And I truly missed picking up my camera. So, I dusted it off and started my journey. The one I had been dreaming about for over a decade. 

So, as I sit here and reflect back on everything that led to this year. I can’t help but feel incredibly grateful. To the process and everything I experienced which led me to this place. And also to all of the amazing families I’ve had the privilege of photographing over the past few years. Families who have let me in to document some of the most intimate and amazing moments of their lives. It’s been a true honor. And I can’t wait to see what the next decade brings with this passion dream of mine. 

Here’s a quick run down from this year. Oh, and be sure to make it to the end for some of my very favorite photos from this year. 

Jan. – Mentored by the amazing Katie Howard of Arcadian Photography. Thank you for teaching me all of your newborn tricks! 

Feb. – Started creating my in-home studio. 

March – Went full-time with my business.

April – Met so many amazing women through the first Parent Trip event, hosted by Doula Olivia and Opus Lactation. 

May – Learned a lot about Marketing and Branding

June – Started my Women Warrior blog series.

July – Networking. Just so much Networking. 

August – Organized my first Styled Shoot with 5 amazing and beautiful pregnant Mama’s.

September – Photographed my first international wedding in Poland! 

October – Hired a business coach.

November – Fall and Tree Farm Mini Sessions – So many of them! 

December – Reflection and planning for 2020

And so many amazing sessions within those months. Again, I’m so incredibly thankful to everyone who has entrusted me to capture their memories for them this year. From newborn sessions, to milestone sessions, to family sessions. I am so honored to have been there with you to document these special memories for you and your loved ones. 

Here’s to a marvelous 2020! 

Happy New Year, Friend! Enjoy looking through some of my favorite images from this past year! Cheers!

Love,

Ashlie