One Year Anniversary

If one were to ask if I ever thought I would establish a photography business I would say, "Lord No!"; and not because I never enjoyed or appreciated photography, I just thought it was not something I could do.  Let's back up a little and give some of my background.  For the last 10 years I've worked as a Business Analyst for an animal pharmaceutical company designing sales reporting programs for the sales force. After my daughter's birth 5 years ago, I began shooting with a DSLR when my husband surprised me with a camera for Christmas and classes shortly after. I taught myself a few editing programs for processing, then the next thing you know I'm the instant photojournalist for family events. 
While on maternity leave (December 17th 2009) for my sweet baby Bennett I learned that my company was going to begin a merger and my job may be at risk.  I didn't know what I was coming back to after my leave and it was very unsettling. I thought to myself...what am I going to do?  What's next?

Shortly after learning of the merger, I visited my cousin Allison.  I talked about my future--or rather lack of knowing my future--and she said to me, "Amber, you should start a photography business. It is something you love to do, and you have a real talent".  This was my WOW moment!  Why didn't I think of that!  It was a perfect idea--do what you love and love what you do.  This put the wheels were into motion.
Within a week my friend, coworker and pregnancy buddy Melissa brought over her 10 week old son for a play date with Bennett (they were born 1 day a part).

Melissa and I turned their play time into a mini-session and posted it on Facebook.  The next thing you know Melissa's friend, Clare, called me interested in me photographing her adorable baby.  This absolutely floored and honored me!  She wanted to chat about booking me for her son's 6 month pictures which was 2 months away. I was so excited and nervous that she would change her mind later. 

Clare was true to her word and called me back a month later to book Jack's session, and from then on away I went to meet and photograph other beautiful families.

When I think about all of these wonderful families and their little babies it brings tears to my eyes. Really, I know it sounds cheesy but it means so much to me that these mothers entrust me to capture their most precious moments.

It has been one year since my first session and I couldn't be happier that I acted on my cousin's advice.

I truly love what I'm doing.  In the last year I've grown so much as a photographer, and I am so excited as I learn more and more. This year I look forward to meeting even more families and reconnecting with old friends.

Wouldn't you know it, I'm still waiting on word of the merger!
Thank you to all the families that I photographed and those of you who are interested in my work.


Here is a glimpse of my 2 favorite people that inspire me each day....Laney and Bennett

-Amber