“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to get through this thing called life. ”

— Prince

This year was tough. It was full of tension, loss, + anger. I believe these things, and whatever you associate them with, will make us stronger. it also teaches you to find the peace that does still exist in our lives. It teaches us to tell stories that are truthful: both the ones we choose not to acknowledge + the ones that give us hope for our future.

I'm saying these things because 2016 wasn't the best year, although there was a lot of hope going into it. I poured tons of good energy into this year, and despite what happened worldwide, personally, it was a very colorful, vibrant, year in which I tried to seek out the best in everything.

This year took me to China, France, + other nooks of our county. It let me make new friends all over the world + cherish old friendships. It moved me to Dallas with Jerry + Eloise, it taught me to hustle and to also be at peace with things I cannot change. It taught me to constantly shoot and experiment with food, styling, and travel + push my photography style further along. It brought me some amazing clients who trust my style + work ethic. But mostly, it taught me to be grateful, patient, + to stand up for your beliefs.

Looking back at 2015, I sit and stare at the amount I photographed this year + it is so very telling.

This year, I quit teaching, started freelancing, I've branded + networked my butt off, and set many goals for myself, some of which I've met and some that I'm not fretting over not reaching. I've thoroughly developed my style, pushed my lighting techniques, and I've invested more with in-camera photography than post-processing (y'all, the x-rite color checker is life). I've researched + cooked more food this year than ever before and in the process, I've had some life-changing meals (Prune, Buvette, + Lupa were easily some of the best!). My food photography has improved and I still have a long way to go, yet every little hero shot makes me jump up + down with joy.

I've learned more about myself than anything, though. I know that if I dedicate myself to something, I will get somewhere. I also know, that "no" is the worst thing someone can say to you + honestly, almost nobody says that wretched two-letter word. Some days, freelancing is the best thing in the world. Others, I'm terrified about surviving. However, looking back at my body of work, every bit was so worth the stress. I can't wait for the future.

I'm so thankful for everyone who has pushed me, had faith in me, and has inspired me...please don't stop, I will always need your mouse clicks + cheers to give my ego a boost. You all know who you are + I owe the world to you for helping me find my happiness.

But y'all, here's to 2016. Food for now. Travel tomorrow. Culture the next day.