THINGS I LEARNED IN 2025
Based on peer voting system with the Canadian Wedding Photographers, I was named the 2025 Ontario Wedding Photographer of the Year and earned a spot in the Top 20 of Canadian Wedding Photographers. All of this comes from all the great learning and growth that I had in 2025. Here are some of the teachings Ill be bringing into 2026.
Be Inspired
There is a great deal of concern in the creative community about being one-of-a-kind, creating work that is truly unique and somehow created out of thin air and not "copied". But for me, being inspired to create by my fellow photographers is a driving force in my work. I see a new technique a colleague is using and Im not afraid to ask for tips or mentorship. I use my Instagram to follow and support other photographers, and to take inspiration from their amazing work to fuel my own creativity.
Going the Extra Mile Does Not Have To Mean Sacrifice
I come from a smaller more rural region in Canada with fewer wedding vendors and services readily available to hire. Often couples are looking to me for advice and support for connecting with other vendors, planning out timelines, coordination support the day of. If I just put my hands up and said "that's not my job" then my couples may not have the chance to have as smooth and full day as they envisioned. Doing those little things before, during and after wedding makes a big difference without taking away from my time.
Be the Expert
It can sometimes seem easy to accept that if a couple has chosen their location for ceremony/reception/photos etc, that its out of your hands as a photographer and you just have to make the most of it. HOWEVER I've learned that my couples are hiring me for my expertise in lighting throughout the day, composition and flow of the day. I will always encourage my couples to reach out to me for advice during planning, I will always attempt to direct couples to the ideal locations for the photos that they have told me they want. And of course, if there is some sunny direct light, Ill be using it to make beautiful creative images.
Take a Chance (or many)
When I started submitted photos for the Canadian Wedding Photographers awards, I had full blown imposter syndrome. I couldn't even imagine that other photographers would consider voting for my photos because I am just a mom, non full-time photographer in Northwestern Ontario. But putting myself out there more and connecting with other amazing photographers, has really grown my confidence. Confidence in my skills and knowledge, and of course confidence to just try out new techniques, prompts, sessions, and more. I am very lucky to have had such a successful 2025!
