Looking Back on 2024: My Busiest Year Yet
Family Photos by the always amazing Shelby Chante Photography
As I sit down to reflect on 2024, I can confidently say this year was the busiest I’ve ever had in my photography career—and probably in my life, period. It was a year filled to the brim with beautiful weddings, sweet moments, and incredible people. But let’s be real for a second: it was also a year of learning (sometimes the hard way) about boundaries, balance, and the toll that chasing your dreams can sometimes take.
This year, I had the honor of photographing 52 weddings. Fifty-two unique couples, love stories, and celebrations. Add in countless engagement sessions, one-off family sessions (seven total!), and even a styled shoot with Metropolitan Weddings (a first for me!), and you’ve got one very full calendar. Oh, and let’s not forget Stonegate Glass Chapel, which is where my passion for weddings first began. It was my first “baby,” the job that got me into the wedding world full-time right after college. Today, it’s still such a huge part of my life, and I love getting to work with my couples on the planning side of their day—even when I’m not behind the camera.
A Year of Highs and Challenges
Let me start with the good stuff—because honestly, there’s so much of it. I truly, deeply love my job. The couples I’ve worked with this year have been incredible, and getting to know them and capture their stories has been a privilege. Engagement sessions for both this year’s and next year’s couples have been such a joy. And seeing my work evolve, push boundaries, and branch out into new territory (hello, styled shoot!) has been so rewarding.
But, I’d be lying if I didn’t admit this year also stretched me in ways I didn’t anticipate. My mental health, physical health (here’s looking at you, lingering foot bruise from September), family time, and even marriage time all felt the weight of my schedule. There were moments where I felt like I was running on fumes, trying to give my all to everyone while realizing I might not have much left to give to myself.
Lessons Learned and Promises Made
2024 has taught me that while I can do it all, I probably shouldn’t. That realization has led to some big promises for 2025—most importantly, setting limits. The fact that I’m even in a position where I need to set limits is such a blessing, but it’s also necessary. Balance doesn’t just happen; it’s something I have to actively work toward.
I’ve had to get really honest about what I can realistically take on without sacrificing the things that matter most: my family, my mental health, and my joy in this work. Because let’s face it, what’s the point of doing something you love if you’re too burned out to actually love it?
Looking Ahead to 2025
As crazy as this year was, it’s left me so excited for what’s next. 2025 is already shaping up to be an incredible year, and I’m thrilled about the opportunities ahead. I’ll be photographing at several venues I’ve never shot at before (always a fun challenge!) and working with amazing new couples while still getting to see some familiar faces.
I’m beyond grateful for everyone who trusted me with their special moments this year. Your love stories, your joy, and your trust are the reasons I do what I do. Here’s to a new year of growth, balance, and maybe even a little more rest (but let’s not get too crazy).
Cheers to 2024, the year that pushed me, and to 2025, the year I’m ready to embrace with open arms!