Here we are! Back at this time of year, where we can reflect on this past year. I think the best way to describe my 2024 year is “new chapters.” There were lots of new things happening this year (both good and not-so-good). This year I’m doing something a little new and I want to talk about my roses (highs) and thorns (lows) of the year.
Roses (Highs) of 2024
New (Old) Hobbies
This year as part of my birthday celebration, I went out to do a paint-n-sip with some friends… and that began my love for painting. I feel like in the past few years, my childhood hobbies are coming back around, such as coloring, painting, and puzzling. I also got into watercolor painting with friends as well. We went out to a local Wegmans, got food, and watercolored hehe. In total, I did three different paintings at the paint bar and seven watercolor paintings. It was so much fun getting to paint again.
Canon Upgrade
This year, I decided to finally upgrade to a new camera body! I’ve had my trusty DSLR Canon EOS Rebel T6i for about 10 years (which is ancient in the tech world!), so it was about time for an upgrade. I absolutely love the new technology! The eye tracking is soo nice! It’s also nice having two card slots haha.
Thorns (Lows) of 2024
Negative Thoughts
Earlier in the year, I was working towards earning an internship position as part of the school psychology program. While my peers were easily getting offers (and they absolutely deserve it because they are wonderful!), it took me a little longer to hear back about offers. This broke me out into a spiral of negative thoughts. Thankfully, this specific incident has a happy ending, and I am currently working in a great county for my internship.
Communication
There were a few scenarios this year where I had to get out of my comfort zone and face them head on. I’m not a fan of confrontation and having to explain myself, but it’s necessary. Definitely had some practice with that this year. I just have to think of it as a learning opportunity and I’m doing better communicating and speaking up (advocating) for myself.
Photography Highlights
Grads and Seniors
I began my photography session this year with a grad session with one of my friends and classmates, Caroline. We took these the day before our graduation lol. The weather was not super ideal, but Caroline was a trooper and took her photos in the rain.
Events
Over the summer, I got to photograph two different events!! The first one was at the beginning of summer for one of my high school friend’s music performances. It was fun seeing some friends from high school. At the end of the summer, I photographed my first wedding. I was a little nervous going into it because it was my first time photographing a wedding, but I’m glad I was able to have a “growth” moment in my career.
Collabs
One of my friends, Brenton, has started his business, Confe Kitchen. He is a very talented chef, so make sure to check out his page!
Family
I got to work with some amazing families this year!!! The Fries and I went over to Lake Fairfax, the Therkelsen/Trimble family and I went over to Royal Lake Park, and an indoor photo session with the Pattersons.
Portraits
I wanted to experiment with my new camera, so I did some photo sessions with my friends. The photo sessions ranged from outdoor in Old Town Alexandria, checking out a new cute cafe, and a decked out holiday hotel.
Thank you so much for being a part of my 2024! Happy New Year! Here’s to another eventful year! My “buds” (growth and things that I’m looking forward to in the new year) will be coming soon! Be on a lookout for the next blog post!
XOXO
Pauline
