And just like that we’re 5…

In August 2016 Arabella Design Studio was born. Well... maybe before that but it was facebook official then, and that as we know means everything.

I thought I’d take a minute to share my photography journey and what led me to opening Arabella Design Studio… because a small business is not started overnight.

I have had a passion and eye for photography since I was a child. I learned to use my Dad’s Pentax K1000, after my mickey mouse camera let me down. I started taking photos of family and friends at parties and gatherings and that was when I learned how special and treasured photos were.

As an early childhood educator I would take photos of my students to document their learning and growth. I would make portfolios of our year together, and of course a slideshow with sappy songs that would make parents tear up. The photographs would give parents a glimpse into their child's school routines, and personalities. I know that when asking your child how their day was at school you often hear “Fine.” These photos helped to fill in the gaps, and bring a year in school to life.

As we traveled my passion for photography really took off. I had the opportunity to visit places that many people may never get to see, and I never wanted to forget it. My husband would often roll his eyes when I would make him pull the car over for the perfect sunflower field in Tuscany, or when he had to listen to the shutter click 1,000’s of times as we traveled in an RV across New Zealand. Now as our walls are lined with photos of far off places, in a time when we were unable to travel I am again reminded of how important photography is.

And so with the birth of our daughter Sofia Arabella, I became a portrait photographer. It started in the hospital where I was completely overpacked and regretted many things that I brought, but I do not regret bringing my camera. I set the camera up, and coached my husband on the types of photos that I thought he should capture. The details, like the clock when the nurses came in and said “Lets do this!” and the white board with all of the notes, and then… her. :::swoon::: I relive those moments often in my head, but I have the amazing photos of the day to remind me of the most life changing moment.

Arabella Design Studio is 5 this year! It is a long time coming, a lot of learning and growing. A huge amount of change, and adapting. When I look around my studio, work with a wonderful client, or deliver very special photographs I feel so content knowing I am exactly where I have worked so hard to be, and I love what I do.

I have had the support of some wonderful people over the years. Here are a few suggestions to help support a friend that has become a small business owner, and they don’t cost a thing.

Visit their website to see what’s new.
If they have a blog, give it a read and leave a comment.
Follow their page on social media.
Engage with their posts on social media by Liking them and/or sharing them with friends.
Leave a positive review.
Ask them how it’s going

Thank you for all of the love and support over the past 5 years. I look forward to many years ahead of photographing your families.

Now for some cake…