Hi guys! It's me, Alora! {Did you even know that was my name lol}

I need to be a blogger! But, I'm really not!
I'm that girl who posts 50 statuses on facebook or tweeting what I'm eating, wearing, and feeling on twitter.
Posting paragraphs that will be interesting to others?...THAT'S HARD!

I will make this work *nervous laugh*
So... update on my life and growth.
{considering Wedding Photography}

L I F E

I have been so blessed, first off, to have the talent of delivering photography I love being able to share my eye candy through my eyes with others! God gave me whatever I have and I am so grateful.
Things have been busy transitioning from having 6 or so different odd-end jobs. {Yeah being a telemarketer? Didn't work out so well} And finally I said. Hey...I should go full-time. I wake up every day thinking about photography and go to bed thinking the same sooo...

I did it! I made the plunge, became a full time photographer, and marketed like only a crazy person could! I still have more to accomplish but I am getting there. I have been so happy and it's a great experience overall. Plus, I meet new people all the time. I talk sooooo much {working on it} and enjoy other peoples company.
So bam! Good news!


G R O W T H

It's funny because it's officially been my first year since I became in business. I have learned so much, been through a lot and learned from many mistakes. But, I am going to be transparent and list my top 5 mistakes of my first year.

1. If the contract isn't signed or a deposit given. Don't book wedding. - I shot a wedding and the bride still hasn't bought the CD or paid for my services. Oh wells. Apparently they didn't want their photos...?
2. Always wear dark colors when shooting - Yes, I'm a bright person and felt the need to shoot in turquoise and a soft pink scarf, so sue me!
3. Don't shoot for your family - If you can avoid it at all possible. try to. They usually want 90% off everything and it's just a disaster, trust me.
4. You can't please everyone - Even after someone books you, they still might not like half of your work or your style...bummer
5. Be confident - Pretty simple, confidence helps keep you at ease, and everyone around you!


Now...my successes!

1. Received Lightroom 3- AWESOME! Not that Photoshop isn't utterly amazing. But, lightroom makes everything faster and...easier. Go figure
2. Obtained experience- Can never have too much of that. And I learn something new each time.
3. Lessened up on the Photoshop - I guess the bride as flawless as an alien...wasn't so cute after all...O_O Natural is always best.
4. I created my own - branding and logo, CD cover, CD design, blog design, etc. I am a self taught Photoshop person for over 3 years now. BAM! Who needs to pay 400$ for someone else to do it? Not me.
5. Marketing - Let's just say reading on the latest tips and getting your name out there, is tough but, I was so afraid to step up my game. At the end of the year. I was fierce YEAH!

Whew. Ok, so 2011 was kinda awesome. I don't regret anything and I am thankful for my experiences. They helped to shape my business in a wiser fashion. The less stupid mistakes along the road. The better, right?

Hope everyone is having a good new year so far! And hopefully the world doesn't end.. O_O

Toodles!

♥ Alora