Real | Portland Wedding Photographer

I just finished watching an interview with Jasmine Star live with  Chase Jarvis, and it got me thinking, and it got me inspired. Jasmine Star is one of the top wedding photographers in the industry. She is a self taught artist and, despite being only 5 years into her career, she is uber successful. 

This really got me thinking. Being an artist in the industry is a stressful feet. I always find myself comparing my work to others, and more often than not, feeling as though I might not be up to par with other artists in my field. This year I am finally gaining the self confidence I have been looking for and trusting that despite my insecurities, I'm putting out a fantastic product. Praise from happy clients has changed my perspective and helped me to trust in my technique. This year I am PROUD of the work I am putting out, and though that may seem silly to some, it is a huge accomplishment to me. 

Each wedding I've photographed this year has been outstanding, challenging, and expressive. I hope next year brings about even more opportunities for me to show the world my creative take on love. I've taken big steps in the past few months, from branding, to networking, to personal  growth. All these aspects have helped me to be a better artist. Most importantly, my trust in God's plan for me and brought me to the point I'm at today. 

Five years ago, I'd never dream this is where I would be. Five years ago I was planning a wedding and debating going back to school to finish my PHD in Psychology. I am a wedding fanatic. When our wedding came and went I was depressed for months and months from "wedding fall-out". I soon found a need to help others plan their weddings, just so I got my "wedding fix". Daily I researched wedding photography blogs, inspiration boards, and hoarded wedding magazines. I wasn't sure where my obsession was headed, but I knew weddings would be part of my life. 

I had always loved photography, and at the time had dabbled in lots of film work in college photography classes. When our daughter was born in January of 2007, the need for a digital camera became evident, and our baby girl has more pictures than any other child by far. I soon realized that I could make my passion a business. This idea really flourished when my sister got engaged. I was her wedding planning extrodinare, and after researching countless photographers, the idea came up that I should photograph her wedding. I was super nervous at the responsibility, but so excited at the idea this might break me into the business. 

On August 10, 2008, I shot my first wedding. I made a few mistakes, but in the end, produced some incredible images. I realized at that moment that this is what I wanted to do. In 2009, I focused on getting my name out there, and networked with anyone who would listen. I successfully photographed a few more weddings, and despite personal tragedy, I was able to pull through the year. In the beginning of 2010, I was still reeling from the events of loosing our son. I wasn't sure if this was a sign that maybe I needed to re-think my career. I knew I needed something to change. By March of 2010, I had already doubled my wedding bookings, and my portrait work was starting to pick up as well. 

Here we are at the end of August, and already I am booking weddings for 2011. I'm in awe of how quickly my story has evolved and curious to see where I am headed. Each night I pray for guidance and thank the Lord for this gift he has given me. I am so lucky to be able to do what I love and to be able to share it with others. 

I'm so thankful for "big time" photographers who aren't afraid to share their stories of success and help other's who are just starting out and trying to fine their way in the midst of a crazy industry. It is refreshing to hear others trials, successes, and even failures. 

So today, I want to say THANK YOU. Thank you to everyone who has helped me along this journey. I couldn't have gotten here without your love and encouragement. I am so very blessed to have you all in my life.