Jenni Merritt Photography: 2012: The Photo Year

What a year 2012 has been!

I have had an amazing year, both in the photography world and in "normal" life as well. My boys, even though they exhaust me, light up my life every day with the new things they are learning and who they are becoming. My writing, though put slightly on the back burner, has still moved forward. I have made friends, loved family, and laughed much.

As for photography: Oh my goodness.

2012 started out nice and slow. I was still working on getting the hang of my lovely DSLR, not to mention still gathering the nerve to put myself "out there" as a photographer. Then, in April, I decided to take part in a 30 Day Photography Challenge. Remember that?

I sure do! It was amazing. I learned so much in those 30 days, and am still madly in love with the portfolio of photographs that came to be because of that challenge. And what's more: It got your attention.

In came the sessions.

More sessions than I had even imagined doing this year.

And I clicked away.

I also began a new, ever growing personal project titled Places That Mean Something To Me.

I am tired. Staring at the computer monitor for hours, editing away, does a number on your eyes and bum. My trigger finger is stronger than ever. I think I can see the muscles flex. But what's more: I am happy. I have learned so much this year. Grown, in my opinion, leaps and bounds. Gathered an amazing clientele and was able to be a part of so many amazing moments.

The final count?

38 sessions

Breakdown:

Family/Sibling: 9

Baby/Child: 8

Senior: 1

Portrait: 6

Maternity: 1

Engagement: 6

Wedding: 3

Personal Projects: 2

Thank you so much to everyone who trusted their memories in my hands this year. I would be no where without you.

Photography is not just a skill. It is not a casual talent or a thing to take granted. Being a photographer is a life-style. It is a means to remember each smile and tear and moment, even after the day is done. I am so grateful to have this in my life. It made 2012 a year to remember. I cannot wait to see what 2013 holds in store for this photographer lady here.

Now, just for fun: Here are some choice photos from a large majority of 2012's sessions. Enjoy!