A Year of Conquering Fears | Year End Review

Getting too comfortable is rarely a good thing.  Complacency stunts growth, and I had gotten too comfortable with my own photography.  In order to push myself, I've been working furiously under the radar to create works that defy what I previously thought I was capable of.  I tried out new lighting techniques, photographed different age groups, remixed my editing techniques, ventured into beauty & boudoir, all the while sharpening my skills as a senior portrait photographer by incorporating what worked and leaving out what didn't.None of the photos shown below have previously been blogged, and I've been waiting for months to show you the body of work I've been quietly creating.  2013 has been a year of conquering fears, defying comparisons, and  learning to be honest about who I am.  I have so many amazing things planned for 2014. I'm hoping to do much more exploration and build upon what I've learned this year.  I hope to take you along with me on that journey to create beautiful art together.Please keep in mind that most of these works are contrary to my normal style.  But that in itself is evolving as well.  Enjoy!

I conquered my fear of using artificial lighting by photographing ladies in bridal gowns.

Next I decided to put things in front of my lens…seriously fun stuff!

I also decided to photograph couples, so of course, I started with models. ;-)

Which led me to photographing real couples, which I love so much more actually.

My HS Latin teacher also asked me to photograph his engagement, which made me realize I'm not a teenager anymore.

It was a strange but liberating experience to hang with my teacher as equals.

I also tried my hands at BEAUTY & BOUDOIR.  And I launched Kiss & Blush as a sister company.

I DEFINITELY want to photograph more women.

I also conquered my fears of photographing family and kids in one fell swoop, by photographing 5 families with kids, in 2.5 hours...

The families loved the photos.

You're probably thinking…Are you still senior portrait photographer?  Heck yeah I am!  

I still have an unwavering commitment to photographing seniors because they are still my  favorite to photograph.

But to keep things different and interesting, on my off-peak seasons,

you're definitely welcome to email me about different kinds of sessions.  I'm up for the challenge.

Thanks for reading and supporting me through 2013.  What are you plans for 2014? I want to hear all about it.

Cheers to a Brave New Year,

Ling