If you’ve looked through my work from the past year, you’ll notice that I haven’t posted many baby & family sessions – yup I’m a little behind! Now that it’s winter time, I’m going to catch up and blog some of my favourite baby & family sessions from the past year. Starting today is a really special little guy. I first met baby Andrew when he was just 9 days old, and back in April I met up with his family for his 6-month session. No matter how many times it happens, I will never cease to be amazed by how fast they grow up! He was such a smiley and happy baby and I’m glad I captured some of that from this session.
Here are some favourites from Baby Andrew’s 6-Month photo session, enjoy!
What a year you have been. I always feel extra nostalgic at the end of each year and the beginning of a new one. Reminiscing about the things that happened, what dreams did I achieve, what memories did I make? A little less than a year ago, I handed in my resignation and left my full time day job in order to follow my passion for photography, and for the stories they tell. It wasn’t so much a scary time, but an uncertain time. The scary part happened when I contemplated the possibility of being a full time wedding and portrait photographer. Once I made up my mind about it, it wasn’t so scary anymore because it seemed possible. Possible but still so full of uncertainty. I pushed through that though, and focused myself, one day at a time, one session at a time, one wedding at a time. Making goals, checking off to-do lists, trying to maintain some balance in life during the busy summer & fall months, and trying to not get lost in the operation of my business and keep those big dreams in sight.
There were a lot of ups.Working with amazing couples and families who understood my vision, shared that vision and trusted me to document their story in the form of photographs; shooting my first, and then my second destination wedding (those are coming soon!); running a profitable business in my first year full time; but most of all, waking up everyday and not regretting or dreading going to work. That feeling, that was how I knew I was definitely doing something right.
There were frustrations and disappointments too. Lessons learned the hard way, and heartaches. But I also worked through them, a lot of times with the help of my amazingly supportive husband, and some really awesome friends. Perhaps one of the most interesting aspect for me has been adjusting to working from home. all. the. time. I really struggle with a self-imposed schedule, not to mention it gets lonely! This Oatmeal comic explains it all. :)
So many things I have learned. How to let it go when it’s not in your control; how to walk away when I’m too emotional to respond to an email; the realization that some things we need to learn and relearn constantly, not everything is like learning to ride a bike; the importance of saying ‘no’; the importance of carving out time for myself, to rest and to stay inspired; the importance of finding my own way and staying true to it.
I’m not a big New-Year’s-resolution kind of person, but one of my biggest goals for 2014 is to push myself to dare to dream bigger, to continue living with love, intention and purpose, and to find a way to give back to the community.
Thank you 2013.
2014, let’s do this!
Love, me.
But what’s an year-end review without some photos? Here are some highlights, favourite moments, favourite photos. Wishing you a year full of love, laughter, great food, moments that you will never forget, and adventures.
“As a marketer/event planner by profession I was extremely selective of the vendors I decided to work with for our wedding day. It was not only Janice’s style of photography and her online portfolio that won me over but her professionalism, eye for detail and excellent communication skills that really sealed the deal! She is honest and upfront and puts you at ease from the very first meeting. She truly photographs in a way that captures so many moments, emotions and details. All of the incredible moments and memories she was able to capture tell the story of our wedding day perfectly!” – Lindsey
The story from Lindsey & Ty’s wedding day is here.
Anna Maria, or affectionally known as Amma by friends & family, and Duy got married on a rainy day in September. It rained, oh how it rained. But all the rain in the world could not dampen their joy and excitement for their wedding day. Though as you will see, the sun did come out to play for a bit, and at the best time of the day too.
Amma and Duy met in grade 10 Chemistry. They became friends, and then best friends. Then Duy asked Amma out on a date, she resisted at first. After a year and half of perseverance on Duy’s end, Amma finally conceded. A smile and a laugh from Amma while sitting together at McDonald’s waiting for their friend were all Duy needed to know that he loved her. After 12 years together, they are like an old married couple, which is so sweet to see. I believe while love is a prerequisite for a marriage, it requires so much more for it to be a happy and long lasting one. Qualities such as friendship, companionship, the ability to make each other laugh etc. And I think they have it all.
It was a day of tremendous joy and happy tears, and a coming together of family & friends! Amma & Duy, I loved immersing myself in the energy of your special day. Thank you so much for inviting me to be a part of it!
Here’s the story of Amma & Duy’s Ancaster Old Mill wedding.
I think a wedding has different meanings to different people. For May & Brandon, they wanted something a little less traditional, a lot more fun, relaxed and personalized. And with the help of their amazing wedding party, that’s exactly what happened on their wedding day. May didn’t want a long wedding gown, so she chose a short dress that’s beautiful, unique and playful, totally reflective of who she is. They didn’t really care for real flowers, so May made a bouquet of gorgeous paper flowers. Instead of a traditional suit, Brandon paired his white shirt & grey pants with a purple tie (May’s favourite colour & their wedding colour) and sneakers. My favourite part of the day was probably their ceremony, they read their own vows which made everyone both laugh and tear up. Then they had a lovely Estates of Sunnybrook wedding reception that featured a barbecue menu, their favourite candies, and a photo booth.
The day was definitely infused with their personalities and the people and things they loved most. Everyone present on that day were witnesses to the special connection they have. May & Brandon, thank you for having me there to document this special day for you! I hope these photographs captured not only your day, but how it felt to be a part of it. Wishing you a life time of love, laughter, games, and delicious treats! ;) xoxo
