Twenty Seventeen.

This year end post and the content is so dear to me. Its a statement of faithfulness and endurance. A reminder when I feel too weak to finish, I'll be given the strength to take another step and carry on. I don't go into a new year hoping for it to be a hard one, but it does have a unique way of shaping and molding in a way the easier seasons just don't. I want to remember and feel this until it truly informs 2018 and how I prepare for it.

I'm still processing this past year and its impact on me and will be for a while. The cross current beneath all of 2017 (and half of 2016!) has been a house remodel (post coming, soon). I cannot separate my photography work from the remodel, because I was so involved in much of it. It was my second job and seemed full time most of the time. I truly believe I had the perfect amount of photography work, however (and an amazingly helpful, forgiving, understanding and patient wife). These facts enabled me to juggle everything else on my plate this past year, but I never want to try it again. 

What a year.

I totally neglected the photography business and feel as though it took a step back after a very inspiring 2016. Momentum seems to have reversed for the first time in 6 years. Now, I'm left dusting myself off (literally and figuratively), picking up the pieces and getting this thing back on the right track. I'm so excited about this, though. 

More time to focus. To invest. Less housework.

Thankfully, I am very proud of the work I delivered to my amazing clients and friends this past year. Even though I felt at the end of myself on a weekly basis, inspiration, energy and motivation always came when needed. I cannot thank God enough for that. There have been so many moments of profound joy this past year and God continues to humble me. I don't deserve such amazing grace. You people. This job. All the moments I witnessed with a camera in hand.  

Thank you.

Here's to turning a page and starting afresh. But, always remembering the sweetness amidst tough and trial filled years. One wedding, one session, one destination and photo at a time. 

I Hope you enjoy this look back. The past two years have been filled with more film photography than ever and I'm finally feeling "comfortable" with the challenge/reward of it. I Hope you and yours start the new year off right and it's one of the best, yet.

Lets create something amazing together.

Peace out to my assistant for the past two seasons. Josiah, you'll be missed but I'm beyond excited for whats next for yah. Thanks so much for all the help, bro. 

Eikum's / a Richardson Nature Center family session

The Eikum's are a special family. I've known Bert for years and I've always admired his adventurous heart and love for people. I had a blast just hanging out with them and walking through one of Bloomington's best parks on a perfect Fall day in Minnesota.

Keeping it simple / Holga 120N + Nikon One Touch 100

I don't pretend to be techy. Although, I enjoy learning about the newest camera to hit the market or best photography gadget thats all the rave. But, its really exhausting keeping up with the latest and greatest thing. All too often, I find myself in a conversation where another photographer gushes about how amazing something is or how this one lens or camera will make such a difference...I want to stop thinking about the camera or lens or current gadget I'm using and more about seeing and capturing and using compelling composition. I recently added a couple cheap film cameras to the mix and I've really enjoyed the simplicity of using them. There's just not that much to think about. I compose and shoot. simple. Here are some favorites from the few rolls I've shot so far.