The Best Life Decision I Made In 2016

Focusing on documentary family photography is the best decision I could have made for my business this year. This might not sound like a life decision, more like a business decision right?Well, some might see it as an unwise business decision for a few reasons:Even though this is a rising category of family photography, not many know it exists. This means that it doesn't bring in as much money as traditional portrait sessions might, because the families that want something different don't always know where to look.Documentary family photography certainly isn't easier to do than traditional portrait sessions, even though it may seem like just snapshots of everyday life. The light, the moments, the composition – nothing is planned.So why exactly do I feel so strongly about this decision?Because real life memories matter, and I'm worried we'll forget about that while scrolling through perfectly curated Instagram feeds.Because photojournalism matters. I like to think that documenting families locally is just as important as documenting people in far off countries, cities and villages. Every family has their own dynamic, their own personality and their own way of dealing with life.Because focusing on what matters to me means more consistent work for my clients. If I tried to be everything to everyone, I would not be able to be the expert my clients deserve.Making this decision for my business has brought so much purpose, inspiration, and fireworks back into my life. So there – the best life decision I've made in 2016.