A Look Back at the Year 2020, during a Global Pandemic, Quarantine, and a Small Business

Like most people, the year 2020 in review, well is hard to put into words, since a lot of "staying at home" orders were in place and we couldn't do much. However, 2020 wasn't all that bad. My son and I hiked all around Lockport, and I was multitasking while finding hidden gems for sessions. My heart is full, and we choose to be creative with our days, spend a lot of time outdoors (ready for sunshine to come back).

We love our neighborhood, and have the most amazing neighbors. Originally, I had plans to do front porch sessions at the beginning of quarantine, but due to the guidelines, I chose to push them back to May. Thankfully, my neighbors were fine with that. I got the chance to meet so many new neighbors, that I never would have if we weren't in a pandemic. See below from our CR Front Porch Sessions.

While most organized their homes, did house projects, which I did a few. I did however, put a vision I had in mind for over a year in place, and created my ESP Signature Portraits. Thanks to my son Kaden for being the tester, as most children of photographer's have to do. :) These have been such a huge hit, and I'm so happy I'm able to put a twist on the "norm" headshot and really bring out the personalities of each and every person I photograph.

My busy season started months earlier then normal, which then allowed me to be creative for November sessions. I came up with new ideas of tree farm sessions, that were such a big hit. It gave me a chance to see some families twice this year too. We may not have been able to spend the holiday's & birthday's with family this year, however, so extra grateful of my "job" and seeing so many of my family and friends during sessions. It's been an extra blessing. Pressure is on for what I will come up with for this upcoming year. I'm ready to take on the challenge and get creative!

Cheers to you, on a new year, a new chapter in your pages to turn, embrace the extra time we have right now, be kind to others, but most of all, start your day with a grateful heart. If we learned anything from 2020, don't stress about things we cannot control, get up and start your day, embrace the new norm, for now.  

Thank you to each and everyone of my clients for choosing this small business to photograph you this year! I appreciate it, more then you know! xoxo

Happy New Year 2021! 

Erin Stefanik Photography