For the past four years, I’ve been a full-time student and a part-time business owner (by default). UVA’s classes started last week and as a recent (and very nostalgic) grad, I wanted to do a small post that highlighted running a small business in college. If you’re in a season of juggling business and college, I hope it will inspire you to keep pushing through!

“If you lost everything today, what would you be most thankful for?”

Here’s a little recap of some of my favorite moments from this year!

Second shooting is a great way to learn the industry with a little less pressure on your shoulders than being the lead photographer. Having been both a lead and a second, I’ve learned some things about how second shooters can be a huge help throughout the day. 

Anyone who spends even the smallest amount of time around me has heard the words, “I need to edit.” I spend hours in the library or Starbucks making the photos that I take absolutely perfect for my clients. I’ve recently gotten several questions about my editing process, so I figured it was time for me to explain how and why I spend time editing your photos. This is an important behind the scenes process that a lot of my friends and clients don’t get to see.

Lauren graduated from UVA’s School of Nursing, which is not an easy feat. Just look at the all the stoles and cords around her neck! Both of these ladies worked hard during the past four years and it has all paid off in wonderful ways. These two sweet, gorgeous graduates are moving on to AMAZING things and I wish them both all the best! Congratulations Keelin and Lauren!  

ake a second to pop over to the photos application on your phone. How many photos do you have? A few hundred? Maybe even a few thousand? I have 1,194. If you’re like me, those photos just sit on your phone until a random moment when you go searching for a random memory. Keeping an album on your phone is great because you have all of your pictures easily saved in one central location. However, don’t let an Instagram picture with a few hundred likes be the last time your photos see the light of day. Print them. Printing your photographs is a quick, easy way to take advantage of your memories. You can frame your prints, use them as bookmarks, or send them to friends far away at college. You can get incredibly creative with prints, just consult Pinterest!

My gorgeous, fabulous mom (and twin) turned 50 last week. We decided that one of the best ways to celebrate is with a photoshoot. We brought my sister, Karlisa, along and it made for a fun girl’s day! This was my first time shooting at Mary Washington University and I love the perfect modern backdrops that their buildings provide.