My 2023 resolution.....Finally?!?!
Well, we may be a little past the New Year, but I did make a resolution this year I wanted to share with everyone (FINALLY).
Hit the reset button.
But what does that mean?
After sixteen years in business, I was feeling a little stale. Sick of the same props, the same studio, session themes, backdrops…..you get the idea, just sick of it all. I love taking pictures, but it was an feeling a little mundane. I knew I needed something fresh to ignite my creative juices again. As much as I would really love a new studio space (afterall, when I bought this place, I said it was only temporary….and here we are 10+ years later) it just isn’t in the cards right now.
So, I started with a studio makeover instead. It isn’t finished yet, but it is getting there! Fresh paint goes a long way, so I began the transformation with that (Sherwin Williams ‘Back to Basics’ if you like it. It is a great warm neutral.) Then, I was in major need of some re-organization. If you haven’t been to my studio, it isn’t exceptionally large like my old space was. I love the hominess, but at the same time, it was feeling kind of cramped with all those props surrounding the room. I have a TON of props. Which is a good, and a bad thing. So, I worked on some creative solutions to incorporate them into the space design a little better, especially all my florals (that is my favorite part of the re-do). Displaying them in wall baskets was a perfect space saving idea (pats self on back) I think the room is a lot more functional already, but still have a couple of other projects in mind to complete.
One of those still to be completed projects is taking my office, which wasn’t really necessary since I mostly work from home now after moving southeast of Canton, and turn it into what amounts to a large walk-in client closet. I have so many client wardrobe pieces. If you’re familiar with my unicorn sessions, you know all those dresses I offer have to be stored somewhere. There are only about 200 of them! And what some of you don’t know, is I also have a massive collection of pieces for newborns up to age 2. They’ve kind of been under utilized because I just didn’t have a good place for them. But all that is going to change!
Here’s a glance at the shoot space in the studio now……..I’ll take more as I finish up a few of the other projects.
The second step in my reset was props. I’ve updated and added tons of new items for newborns and children, most of which are posing type of props (buckets, chairs, stools). My focus and aesthetic has shifted over the years. I went from plain and simple, to printed backdrops and elaborate sets. And honestly, it just wasn’t feeling like me anymore. I prefer the simple, more organic approach. So, I am headed back that direction. I got carried away there for awhile! Limited Edition sessions have, and always will be, more elaborate pretend play styled sets….it is just the nature of what they are and I do really enjoy creating the more interactive sets. I’ve just learned there is a time and place for that. Regular studio sessions are going to be less prop/set focused and more people focused. Not going to lie, the cost of the sets was becoming a big roadblock to offering them on a regular session basis without dramatically raising package prices. Everything has gone up (as you well know) but keeping things as affordable as possible is important to me, without sacrificing quality or most importantly, your experience.
Here’s just a few of the new goodies. I’ve also added plenty of new wardrobe and accessory pieces as well, tons of backdrops, new wood floors, and more!
Next up on my to-do list after that was website. Holy neglected website Batman….they both needed some work. So, both sites are now brand new…..new info and updated portfolio images. Hopefully you’ll find it easier to get in touch with me and find the info you need! Pricing is now listed directly on the site, plus you can contact me through a simple form submit contact page instead of having to open your email to contact me.
Check them out below!
And lastly, after physical studio appearance, props, backdrops came a mental mindset reset. This was probably the single most important step in getting my mojo back. I’ve spent the past few months working on re-education through listening to business and photography podcasts (my favorite being Sprout Studio’s Business of Photography, found HERE, plus reading some super awesome business and psychology books (Daring Greatly by Brene Brown was probably the most enlightening for just general living and well being, while I recommend Influence by Robert Cialdini for business principles. I feel totally refreshed and ready to take on the challenges of being a business owner in this tough economy and over saturated market. I believe I have learned how to better serve all of you and make your photographic experience all the better, which is always by number one priority.
Phew! So that’s it folks!!!!
The past couple months of my life in a nutshell….my less busy season hasn’t been so less busy! But truly, this time of year is about taking a step back and re-evaluating what is working and what isn’t, and coming up with new ideas and solutions, not just taking a mini vacation while appointments are a bit slower. I think I’ve used my time wisely, and I’m ready to get back to busy!
Links to some of the products purchased:
Light Stand Holders: Amazon (these are meant for brooms and shovels, etc. but work perfectly to store backdrop stands and poles)
Mini Fridge: Amazon (all the kids are loving this one, love the retro style)
Drawer Organizers: Amazon (best purchase yet….in fact, I bought some of these and other styles for my house now too)
Storage Bins with Lids: Amazon (perfect solution for newborn lovies and small props)