I find myself at another December, thinking over the year that has passed, trying to wrap my mind around all that has happened. This happens every year, but this year…seriously. Seriously?!
It has been a year of opportunity, of growth, of doors that have closed and opened, of learning, of travel, of relationships. Excitement, disappointment, joy. Things that, had you told me 6 months ago would happen, probably would have caused me to laugh in your face! It has been perhaps the busiest and most all-over-the-place kind of year for me…so here’s to hoping this Christmas will bring a little quiet, a little peace, a little sloooow down time, in order to appreciate just how full my heart is right now. Full at the thought of all these things, at the thought of how God has made his love and grace known in my life.
What better way to do this than to look back over pictures…some personal, some not, some that best represent my brand…I’m sure I missed a few, but here’s a further look into what 2010 was about.
We caught Olympic fever when the games came to town!
Such a great day! I had random encounter and lunch with wedding photographer Jasmine Star at Image Quest in Richmond in March. Check out the full post here!
After meeting Jasmine, I knew I HAD to try and go to one of her workshops in OC, California…
It was an incredible, motivating experience. You can read about it and check out more photos here.
I was so happy Whitney came along with me to Newport Beach for a little fun in the sun before and after the workshop :) More photos here and here.
Fresh from the workshop and dying for some wedding experience, I had the opportunity to shoot this wedding with a friend!
Not long after, I organized this styled, ‘day after’ shoot. And had the absolute pleasure of shooting this gorgeous couple…some of my favourite photos can be found here and here.
Yay for our annual camping trip to Whidbey Island, Washington.
My parents – 25 years married :)
Another day after shoot – so fun! I love, love shooting couples in love.
Shane. The biggest reason why my heart is so full right now. A few more of my favourite photos…
A special family..most members have made more than one appearance on my blog. Here is one.
My lovely, dear, (and a little crazy) friend Janelle left me for Japan! So we did a photo shoot. Miss you!
The first couple to book me for their wedding photos next year :)
My oldest friend and her son – I love these two!
My first sunrise shoot…I wouldn’t mind a few more! Morning light is my favourite, and this session is one of my favourites too. Part 1 and Part 2.
A first birthday and so much cuteness!
A vineyard/Kelowna engagement shoot! And a bride that has become a friend :)
A fabulous, styled wedding shoot that connected local wedding vendors, and gave me SO much lovely goodness to photograph! It was also featured on GREY LIKES WEDDINGS! Check that post out here.
And then there was HAWAII! A dream vacation with some awesome people (and more photos that ought to be blogged one day…)
Engagement shoot with Lanka + Mick…
A much enjoyed visit with family in Manitoba and one of my favourite photo sessions of all time….
A couple more photo shoots from that visit can be seen here and here :)
I heart Seattle. The latest trip down made it on the blog here.
A field, a firehall, and lots of love and laughter…Brian + Stephanie’s engagement shoot.
I can’t help but look ahead to 2011 full of anticipation for what God will do with a new year! Already, there is much in the works. And many weddings on the calendar :)
Aimee Saddler says
aww Mik! How nice to see the photo of Sean and I :) I miss that day… it was SO fun!! Your photos look great and its awesome to see the talent that has grown in the past year. You have been super dedicated and ambitious and I’m happy to see what is coming from that!!!
Whitney Barkman says
Wow, what full year! I’m so proud of you:) And excited!!
Rachel Martens says
Oh Mikaela, you are so adorable! I love checking out your photos and seeing how you experience life through a camera lens :)
I know we haven’t known eachother long, but I am proud of you for handling the busyness of life and maintaining your relationships, with God, family, friends, and staying grounded. What an example :)
Wishing you an amazing Christmas!
Chat again soon!xo
Shannon Gillespie says
I’m so glad I found you this year, you have been a big inspiration to me. I hope 2011 is a year of growth, inspiration and bliss for you. xx
Alex says
I love these end of year posts that everyone is doing, I think I’m going to sit down and do one tomorrow :). I’m loving all of these beautiful images! Have to go take a peek around your blog now. All the best for an even better 2011!!