How did we get to Valentine’s Day already? Life moves fast, whether we ask it to or not. Days fill quickly with obligations, deadlines, and responsibilities, and suddenly another season passes. We stay busy and productive, yet often feel disconnected—from ourselves and from what truly matters.
This year, I’m choosing a different pace. I’m being deliberate with my time. I want to create more, connect more, and experience life instead of rushing through it. Valentine’s Day now feels less like a milestone on the calendar and more like a reminder to pause, reflect, and show up with intention.
As a Galena photographer, this mindset shapes how I live—and how I create.
Learning, Inspiration, and a Little Fun in Nashville
I recently traveled to ImagingUSA in Nashville, and the experience energized me in all the right ways. I spent time with photographers who care deeply about their craft, and I allowed myself to enjoy the process—learning, laughing, and reconnecting with the curiosity that first pulled me into photography.
I especially enjoyed exploring the latest advancements in Adobe editing software. I tested new tools, refined my workflows, and discovered creative possibilities that directly enhance the final artwork I deliver to my clients—whether I’m creating fine art portraits or intimate boudoir photography grounded in trust and intention.
I returned home inspired, focused, and ready to apply what I learned.
Creating With Purpose on the Path to Master Photographer
As I continue working toward my Master Photographer designation, I’m intentionally creating more conceptual work. I photograph with purpose, using light, shadow, and form to communicate emotion and story rather than chasing trends.
This approach carries directly into my work as a boudoir photographer in Galena. I don’t photograph for perfection—I photograph for presence. At the same time, I’m dedicating more energy to working on my business, not just in it. I’m refining systems, strengthening my vision, and building a foundation that allows the work to evolve thoughtfully and sustainably.
A Valentine’s Self-Portrait
This Valentine’s Day, I stepped in front of the camera.
I didn’t create my self-portrait for performance or approval. I created it to acknowledge growth, resilience, and the woman behind the lens who continues to choose creativity and self-trust. As someone who photographs others professionally, stepping into the frame reminded me why self-portraiture—and boudoir—can feel so transformative.
Sometimes the most important love story is the one we allow ourselves to witness.
Recognition With Gratitude
One of my images recently received the 2025 Best of Boudoir award. While recognition never drives my work, I accept it with deep gratitude. Every boudoir image I create centers on the person in front of my lens—their courage, their trust, and their story.
This award honors that collaboration. It reinforces what I already know: when someone feels truly seen, the image carries power far beyond technique or titles.
Exhibiting Work and Celebrating Community
I’m honored to participate in two upcoming members-only exhibitions through the Scenic Art Loop:
- Coliseum Museum of Art — Oregon, IL
- Voices Studios — Dubuque, IA
These exhibitions celebrate regional artists and visual storytelling. I value the opportunity to show my work alongside fellow Scenic Art Loop members and to contribute to a creative community rooted in shared purpose and respect.
Choosing Creation Over Hustle
Lately, I’ve stepped away from hustle culture and leaned fully into creating. I no longer chase metrics or external validation. I focus on making work that feels honest and meaningful.
Whether I’m creating conceptual art, photographing boudoir, or guiding a client through a portrait experience, I choose presence. I enjoy the learning, the experimentation, and the process of becoming.
That choice feels intentional. And it feels like love.
Reflections
If this reflection resonates and you feel ready to honor your own story—through portrait or boudoir photography in Galena—I invite you to reach out when the time feels right. I create space for thoughtful, unhurried sessions rooted in trust and intention.
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