2024 was an exceptional year for me and West Penwith Photography, far exceeding anything I could have envisioned. I began the year, as I always do, taking a much-needed break to clear my slate and recharge. While I enjoy the quiet and reflective period that the new year brings, it didn’t take long before I felt the familiar itch to get back out with my camera. Before I knew it, my calendar was full, and the year was off to an incredible start.
The year began with a few wedding bookings, but by spring, the momentum had grown exponentially. I had the privilege of capturing countless amazing couples at a variety of stunning venues. From the serene beauty of Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens to the coastal charm of the Harbour Hotel in St Ives and the historic elegance of The Rodney Hotel in Bristol, each wedding was a unique celebration of love and creativity.
Another highlight of 2024 was photographing the unforgettable Eden Sessions. Walking into the photographer’s pit to capture legendary artists like Fat Boy Slim and Rick Astley is an experience that never loses its thrill. Beyond live events, I also worked closely with musicians on one-to-one collaborations, creating compelling imagery that supported their artistic visions. One particularly rewarding project was working with Marian Crole in the lead-up to her autumn show in Penzance—a journey that combined artistry and storytelling.
This year also saw my work expand in exciting new directions. I had the opportunity to document wedding proposals, which offered a fresh and intimate perspective on love stories. Collaborations with local businesses to produce polished portfolios became another enriching facet of my photography. A standout project was working with St. Aubyn Estates and St. Michael’s Mount, where I embraced a more photojournalistic approach to showcase their rich heritage and service to the local community.
Adventurous family photoshoots also brought joy and innovation to my portfolio. Spending time with families and capturing their early memories in meaningful, creative ways is always a privilege and a reminder of the importance of preserving life’s fleeting moments.
While 2024 brought unparalleled success, it also came with its share of challenges. The sheer volume of work tested my limits, and I underestimated the importance of pacing myself. As a result, some personal projects had to be set aside, including two exhibitions that held immense potential. This year has been both exhilarating and humbling, teaching me the importance of balancing ambition with sustainability.
As the whirlwind of 2024 comes to a close, January will be a time for reflection, rest, and recalibration. This month, I am prioritizing self-care and spending quality time with my family—a much-needed pause after such a demanding year. It will also be a month of planning and setting clear goals for 2025. Key priorities include refreshing my website to better reflect the breadth of my work, refining my marketing strategies to reach new clients, and focusing on advertising to bring visibility to aspects of my business that took a back seat this year.
I’m also eager to revisit the personal projects that never got off the ground. New ideas are already taking shape, and I’m excited to bring them to life. On a personal note, January includes a family trip to Wales, offering a chance to unwind and create lasting memories. Later in the month, I’ll head to the stunning Highlands of Scotland with friends for a photography adventure an opportunity to combine exploration and creativity in one of the most breathtaking landscapes imaginable.
Additionally, I’m eagerly awaiting news about the potential release of the Sony A75. If it lives up to the hype, it could be the perfect time to update my gear and elevate my photography further. January will be a balance of rest, family time, and preparation—laying the foundation for a fresh, focused, and inspiring 2025. I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunities this past year has brought and excited for what lies ahead.
Best Wishes & Happy New Year.
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