2024 Photography Recap: Rest, Reflect, and Reset for 2025
2024 Photography Recap: Rest, Reflect, and Reset for 2025
 
|
As I continue to grow and evolve both personally and professionally, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of self-awareness and self-compassion. Reflecting on my journey as a photographer, I see how far I’ve come – how each experience has shaped my craft and deepened my love for capturing real, meaningful moments. This past year has been filled with incredible weddings, beautiful families, and precious newborn sessions. Every couple, every family, and every tiny new life I’ve had the honor of photographing has reinforced why I love what I do. From heartfelt vows and lively celebrations to quiet, tender moments between parents and their little ones, each session has been special in its own way. |
New Year, Same Me – And That’s Just Fine!
Now in February, I’m emerging from my winter hibernation after taking the time to pause, reflect, and set my intentions for the year ahead.
New Year, same me – and that’s perfectly fine.
With each day growing a little brighter, there’s a shift in energy – a sense of renewal and a chance to look back on all the lovely moments 2024 brought.
Here’s a glimpse into the beauty of 2024 through my lens ...
I’m choosing to move at my own pace this year – prioritising balance, creativity, and the moments that matter most.
2025 is about refining my photography business, finding inspiration, and appreciating the incredible people I am lucky enough to work with.
Highlighting Beautiful Weddings in 2024
I must thank the incredible couples I had the privilege of working with last year.
From a secret wedding of a university friend to a cinematic London wedding and a charming bridal tour through Bristol, my season was diverse and exciting, filled with unforgettable moments.
Sh*t Show: A wedding day surprise
A special shoutout to Will & Ffion, whose wedding had an unexpected (yet lucky) guest – a bird dropping!
While no one wants to be pooed on (especially on their wedding day), these two handled it like absolute champs.
Their ability to laugh it off was a perfect lesson in dealing with life's unexpected challenges with grace – a reminder that even when the sun is shining, you can't be prepared for everything!
Client Reviews: What Truly Makes It Worthwhile
The joy I get from working with couples is immeasurable.
The rush of seeing the final images come together is unmatched.
But it’s the kind words from clients that really make everything worth it.
Here are just a few reviews from 2024 that warmed my heart:
💓 If you've worked with me and enjoyed the experience, I'd love for you to leave me a little review.
🩶 🩶 🩶
📧 If we haven't worked together yet and you'd like to chat about your plans, feel free to reach out.
Finding Balance: Prioritising Health and Creativity
Working solo in the creative industry can be lonely at times, so in 2024 I focused on building my health and taking more time off.
I dived into side hustles, connected with other creatives, and took a well-needed break.
I even managed to fit in a surfing trip in Morocco with a friend, a long-overdue reunion with my Uni crew, and for once, attended a wedding as a guest, not the photographer!
As you may know from my previous posts, I’m much more comfortable behind the camera than in front of it (the irony isn’t lost on me – don’t worry!).
But in the spirit of 'new year, same me,' I'm sharing a little bit more of me.
One way I try to slow down is through what I call ‘productive mindfulness'.
I’m not great at sitting still for long – my happy place is in motion – whether it’s making cards (especially lino prints, lately), pottery, running, Pilates, or a bit of baking (well ... mainly decorating biscuits).
And as a bonus, most of my mindful creations double as gifts for loved ones—because that’s just how I roll.
The Power of Social Media in Photography
In today’s digital age, social media plays a huge role in growing a photography business.
While I truly appreciate the power of word-of-mouth, platforms like Instagram allow me to connect with even more clients. I’ve had wedding guests reach out after seeing my work in action, and it’s incredibly rewarding.
That said, I’ll admit: social media can feel overwhelming.
The constant competition and pressure to stay relevant can be exhausting, and on top of that, it's ever-changing – nothing makes you feel old quite like TikTok!
I miss the days when Instagram felt like a more authentic space for creativity and carefree communication.
As part of my 2025 reset, I’m embracing it – but on my terms.
Beautiful Bristol Weddings
One of the big perks of slowing down in 2024 was getting to work more locally.
While I still love destination weddings, there's something special about capturing weddings right here in Bristol – the city I love and know so well.
An even bigger perk is being able to sleep in my own bed after a wedding day – what a treat!
Creative Wedding Trends in 2024 and Beyond
What excites me the most about each wedding is the unique personality each couple brings.
Many of my clients are creative and environmentally conscious, making for a fantastic photographer-client relationship.
It’s so inspiring to see how couples are remaking traditions – women giving speeches, remixed aisle walks, and even including pets in their big day!
Eco-conscious weddings are on the rise, with couples finding creative ways to minimise waste while adding personal, meaningful touches – something that has always been important to me.
Expanding Services: New Year, New Opportunities
After taking time to reset, I’m ready for an exciting 2025.
My goal is to continue growing my wedding and family photography business.
As part of my growth, I’m excited to expand my services to include more branding photography.
Whether you're updating website imagery, showcasing unique business spaces, or product photography, I’m passionate about helping small businesses visually tell their story.
If you're an independent business owner looking for fresh brand photography, social media content, or behind-the-scenes shots, I’d love to collaborate!
As with all my work, my photography style is relaxed and documentary-inspired – no stiff, posed shots, just authentic, high-quality images that capture the essence of your brand and showcase your business’s unique personality.
Mother's Day Special: 10% Off Family & Baby Photoshoots
With Mother’s Day around the corner:
🎁 I’m offering 10% off family & baby shoots booked before the end of April!
✔️ Present—sorted! (I’ll save you the panic-Google: it’s 30th March 😉)
📸 For more details, check out my Family & Baby Photography page
2025 Wedding Packages: 10% Off Bookings Before April
🎉 To all the amazing couples tying the knot in 2025:
♥️ I’m offering 10% off full-day wedding packages booked before the end of April!
📧 Get in touch to chat about your plans – I’d love to be part of your day!
So, as I finally(!) hit the publish button on this post:
I encourage you all, where possible, to rest when you can and relaunch when you're ready!
Despite taking a bit of a step back, I can honestly say I had such a wonderful 2024.
💛 Thank you to everyone who was a part of it 💛
If you're looking for an experienced, relaxed, documentary-style photographer who helps you feel at ease,
I’d love to hear from you!
Love
Laura x
☀️ Roll on spring! 🌸
Upcoming Blogs:
💒 📜 Bristol Registry Office: A Magical Place with a Boring Name
💍✨🍃 20 Creative Wedding Ideas for a Day That’s Uniquely Yours
📸 🌿 👶 Essential Tips for Planning the Perfect Outdoor Newborn and Family Photoshoot
📸 🚀 How to Maximise Your Branding Shoot for Business Growth and Impact
Laura Crouchley Photography
