My word for 2024 was growth.  Having a goal, wanting to dive in deep and commit to the growth of my business, both through my skillset  and elevating my clients experience was a priority for me.  Trying to figure out and focus on certain aspects of my photo sessions and doing more of what speaks to my soul was something that I really wanted to focus on in 2024.

When you are a solo-preneur, every aspect of your life tends to be intertwined with your business.  You are truly the only reason your business will fail or succeed. The hours are never 9-5, there is so much more to just  talking the photos. I am so excited being able to look back at this past year and see how I have grown both in business but also in really connecting to what my style and niche are.

I was always afraid to say no to sessions because anytime someone requested a photoshoot with me is such a compliment.  I have learned so much in the last 7 years in this business and I am so exciting to journey down the path that I know I am suppose to walk in 2025.

Some of what I have learned is,  it is ok t say no to things and sessions that don't resonate with your style.  There are so many great photographers out there, each with their own unique style, so shooting all the things is no longer where I am at.  Choosing what resonates with me means that my clients and I tend to really connect, and the emotive moments really show through the images that we capture.

I have been so fortunate to have so many clients that truly love my style and want to invest in capturing memories, it truly is an honour and such a compliment.

If you know anything about me, when I dedicate myself to something I always go hard and fast, wanting to do all the things and take it all in at record speed.  In 2025, part of what my goals are, is to slow down and be more intentional. both personally and professionally. 

Spending my free time trying to become better at what I do, learning new things or just trying to perfect my art in ways that are unique to me is what I am excited for.  My passion goes deep, this is how I know I am exactly where I am meant to be, doing exactly what I am meant to be doing. Looking back and seeing my growth over the last seven years has been so fulfilling, offering up such a sense of accomplishment, I am so proud of me.

So growth was my word for 2024.  However as I sit here now, looking ahead to 2025 oi feel my word is Intentional.

Yes, I committed to courses, learning new things, yes I implemented new systems, making my client experience even better, yes the amount of clients I had the privilege and blessing to photograph increased from the year before.  So all-in-all I would say for sure it was a year of growth.  However retrospectively my word as I look back would have to be Gratitude.  

Many new relationships were made, any many old ones were nurtured and built even stronger. For that am I so thankful.

My business experienced a huge growth this year, and being a solo-preneour meaning it is just me doing all the things.  I am the office administrator, I am the social media and marketing director, I am the photographer, I am the editor, I am the cleaning staff, I am the student, I am the teacher, I am the business manager, I am the accountant ... and I am just one person.  So because of my growth I quickly realized I needed new business automations.  I am so grateful that you all were so compassionate and understanding  with me this year. Wether it was due to be taking a bit longer on editing or a missed email, or not being able to accommodate certain dates for sessions. I am grateful for you.

118 Photo Sessions this year! I can't even believe.

When I saw this number I was feeling so many emotions. I feel so proud of what I accomplished. Always showing up, giving 100% of all that I can, to each session. So a great big thank you to all my clients.  I am because you are. Forever grateful.

So I eagerly await all that 2025 will bring.

I will be intentional

with each session

with each friendship

with my marriage 

with my kids

with my choices

with my goals

with my time

and how I choose to show up for myself and others.

What is your word for 2025?

XO 

Leslie

Leslie Dawn Photography 

Enjoy a few images from this past year.

I'm here for all the Maternity, Newborn, lifestyle, family and beautiful Weddings.

to be continued...