2017 found me in 26 cities in 12 different countries. But what 2017 really gave me was a renewed confidence and motivation to create and put out consistent work which I can be proud of. I attribute my developed style focusing on colour and composition to focused hard work and constant support I received this year from family, friends, and fellow photographers. 

I am very happy to share a small collection of my favourite shots from the past year. Photos available for purchase are linked.

The final photo gets to be set aside, as it was the one which pulled me out of impostor syndrome and into confident artist territory. After hitting the front page of Reddit, I saw a huge influx of engagement. What I’ve never shared is that this photo almost never left my Lightroom catalog. I went to this location at sunset knowing what I wanted to leave with, took about 10 shots from various angles, choosing my settings carefully. I went home and began to process - I was feeling frustrated. I simply wasn’t happy with it, but I showed it to my husband whose face dropped, uttering “wow.” He’s supportive of my work, and gives me honest critique - so this visceral reaction was a surprise. He must see something I didn’t, so I posted it to my personal Facebook. The reaction I got there mirrored my husband’s, so what the hell, I’ll post it to r/itookapicture. I woke up to incredibly supportive words from some of the toughest critics out there: Redditors . 

From there, it was a pretty incredible experience of recognition from different sources. I’ve spent so many years not trusting myself and my art. Always thinking I’m not good. Not good enough to even pretend to be. While it’s dangerous to rely on outside validation, sometimes it’s the kick a person needs to gain confidence. Only through support of all artists will more beauty and art be brought into a world which needs it.

If you're one of those supporters, thank you for a year of encouragement and honest critique. I look positively to 2018 as yet another year of growth and art.