Life Behind the Lens: July Recap | Saying Goodbye to the Hospital and Saying Yes to Photography\
One of the most meaningful parts of building a photography business is realizing that sometimes, you're the one stepping in front of the camera. This branding session, photographed by my incredibly talented associate and second shooter, Dylan, represents more than just new headshots—it marks a new chapter for my business. As I continue growing into the wedding industry, I wanted images that truly reflect who I am, the heart behind my business, and the experience I want every client to have. These photos capture the person behind the lens as I prepare to photograph my very first weddings and continue building a business rooted in connection, storytelling, and genuine moments.
July has been one of the busiest—and most rewarding—months I've experienced. Alongside growing my photography business, I've moved away from working full-time in the NICU, planned my own wedding, and adjusted to life with our new puppy. Some days have felt overwhelming, but they've also reminded me that building something meaningful rarely happens all at once. Every late night editing gallery, early morning responding to inquiries, and weekend spent behind the camera has brought me one step closer to the life I've been working toward. It's not always glamorous, but it is incredibly fulfilling.
Behind the Camera This Month
July marked the close of a busy season and the beginning of an exciting transition into senior portraits and weddings. I've had the privilege of photographing proposals, engagement sessions, couples, weddings and seniors, and I've discovered that proposals have quickly become some of my favorite moments to document. There is something unforgettable about capturing the exact second someone's life changes forever. The anticipation, emotion, surprise, and celebration happen in just a few minutes, and it's an incredible honor to preserve those memories.
As wedding season begins, I'm beyond excited to photograph my first weddings. Every session and every couple continues to teach me something new, helping me become a stronger storyteller and photographer.
Small Wins That Mean Everything
This month I reached a milestone that made me smile—nearly 700 Instagram followers. While follower counts don't define success, each new connection represents someone discovering my work and supporting this dream. Every inquiry, referral, comment, and share helps build momentum. I've learned that consistent growth is worth celebrating, even when it happens one person at a time.
Even more exciting, I successfully booked at least one paid session every weekend throughout July, which has been one of my biggest goals since starting my business. Seeing my calendar steadily fill has given me confidence that all of the work happening behind the scenes is paying off.
What I've Been Learning
Running a photography business involves so much more than taking beautiful photographs. This month I've spent countless hours refining my Lightroom Classic workflow, improving client communication, organizing my CRM, updating my website, and learning everything I can about SEO.
I'm beginning to recognize the locations where my style naturally shines and the editing techniques that feel most authentic to me. Instead of trying to imitate other photographers, I'm becoming more confident in creating work that feels like my own. Everything about my business is becoming more intentional—from how I photograph sessions to how I market them online.
My Favorite Session of Jule
Without question, my favorite session this month was my very first wedding in Meeker, Colorado.
Leading up to it, I was filled with nerves. Timing had to be perfect, every detail mattered, and I knew there would only be one chance to capture the moment. Watching two people experience one of the happiest moments of their lives reminded me exactly why I chose photography. It's never just about beautiful images—it's about preserving stories that families will treasure forever.
What's Been Helping My Business Grow
I've also been focusing heavily on improving the foundation of my business. A few things have made a noticeable difference this month:
Publishing consistent blog posts to improve long-term website traffic.
Using natural, location-based keywords throughout my blogs and Instagram captions.
Updating my website regularly with recent work and fresh content.
Staying consistent on social media without chasing perfection.
Continuing outreach, improving workflows, and investing time into the systems that support a better client experience.
None of these strategies create overnight success, but together they're building momentum that I hope will continue for years to come.
Looking Ahead
July is shaping up to be another exciting month, and my goals are simple:
Continue booking at least one paid session every weekend.
Photograph my first weddings with confidence.
Invest more into my business and education.
Maintain a healthier work-life balance.
Keep showing up fully while working full-time in the NICU.
Stay present while planning my own wedding.
Survive the wonderfully chaotic puppy stage.
Continue building a photography business that one day becomes my full-time career.
I'm learning that success isn't built in giant leaps—it's built one weekend, one session, one client, and one small improvement at a time.
Thank You
To every client who has trusted me with your memories, every friend who has shared my work, every family member cheering me on, and every person who has supported this journey—thank you.
In just one month, I've taken meaningful steps toward my dream of becoming a full-time wedding and portrait photographer. Every session represents trust, connection, and the opportunity to preserve moments that matter.
This business is growing because of all of you, and I couldn't be more grateful.
Here's to photographing more love stories, meeting more incredible people, and continuing to build a life—and a business—that I truly love.
I can't wait to see where this journey leads next!!!
