Reflecting on a Year of Change

It’s hard to believe it’s been six months since my last Behind the Scenes update at Laura Perron Photography. On January 1, I packed away the Christmas decorations (much to our kids’ disappointment) and smiled, knowing brighter and warmer days are just around the corner. As I get older, I’ve become less fond of winter, but I do appreciate its slower pace—a chance to catch up and tackle new projects.

Shifting Focus: From Branding to Weddings

In my last update, I shared that I was taking a Personal Branding Photography Course. At the time, I thought this would shape the next phase of my business. However, a new door opened: wedding photography. The skills and insights I gained from that course have been invaluable and surprisingly transferable to both wedding and graduate photography, making it time well spent. Personal branding remains on my future plans list, as I’d love to help small business owners market themselves and their products in the future. If this is something your business needs, don’t hesitate to reach out!

A Dream Anniversary Trip to Hawaii

This past fall, my husband Denis and I celebrated our 20th anniversary with a trip to Hawaii. The past year brought challenges, including uncertainty around Aiden’s health and Denis’s mom’s health. Up until a few days before our departure, we weren’t sure if Denis would need to fly back to Nova Scotia to be with his family. The Lord opened the door for us to go, and we made it to Hawaii.

We’d never been before and secretly wondered if it could live up to the hype. Arriving late at night, we didn’t see the full beauty of the resort and ocean until the next morning. It took our breath away. The week gave us a precious chance to slow down, reconnect, and simply enjoy each other’s company. Of course, we couldn’t help but think about how much our kids would love the islands and often pointed out things they’d enjoy.

Capturing Memories: Behind the Lens in Maui

When planning the trip, I knew I wanted professional photos to commemorate the occasion. I connected with an amazing photographer in Maui and booked our dream beach photoshoot. You can read all about that experience in this post. Being on the other side of the lens was a humbling and enlightening experience—it’s harder than it looks! Not only was it a great memory for Denis and I, but it was also a useful exercise that has already helped me serve clients better.

Saying Goodbye to a Remarkable Woman

In December, we said a hard goodbye to Denis’ mom as she graduated from her earthly home to her eternal one with Jesus. Marie was diagnosed with terminal cancer in April 2023 and fought bravely for a year and a half. During our Christmas visit to the Maritimes in 2023, she asked me to bring my camera to take a special picture of her. Though she didn’t say it outright, we both understood the significance of that photo. As difficult as it was to take, I deeply appreciated her thoughtfulness in planning how she wanted to be remembered.

It was a mild winter day in Nova Scotia, and Marie had enough energy to do her hair and makeup. We were also able to capture a beautiful family photo, as everyone was home for Christmas. When it came time to plan her funeral, I retrieved that carefully planned photo, had it printed and framed, and placed it beside her casket. Afterward, we gave the framed portrait to my father-in-law to hang in their living room. I even suggested a specific spot on the wall where she could keep an eye on him as he sits in his favorite chair.

If you’ve followed this blog, you’ll know that several of my photos have been used in similar ways over the years. It’s always an honor to contribute to the final chapter of someone’s story in such a meaningful way.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we begin a new year, I’m diving headfirst into learning all things wedding photography. Continuous education is one of my core values at Laura Perron Photography, and I’m thoroughly enjoying the Wedding Bootcamp course I’m working through. I love tackling new challenges, and as I refine my processes and workflows for weddings, I can’t help but feel excited about the incredible brides and grooms who have already booked with us for 2025.

This spring, we’re gearing up for another busy season of personalized grad photos. Our very own Aiden will be one of those excited Grade 12 Calgary graduates this year, making this season even more special for our family. He’s currently brainstorming how to balance being both the photographer, videographer and graduate for his own personalized session. If there’s one thing I know about Aiden, it’s that he’ll find a way to make it happen. His determination and creativity inspire me every day, and I can’t wait to see what we capture for this milestone moment. Stayed tuned to our blog and socials on how you can get your name on our Calgary Personalized Grad Session waitlist!

Here’s to a year of growth, creativity, and unforgettable moments!