2023: A Year in Growth, Leadership, and Self-Value
2023 was a big year in a lot of ways and like most years has peaks and valleys. Looking back at my year, instead of focusing on the goals I didn’t accomplish, I’m overwhelmed by gratitude for the milestones I achieved, personally and professionally. These milestones can be broken down into three underlying themes that sum up the power and beauty of 2023. Spoiler alert: They involve my amazing clients and supporters!
Stepping up as an industry leader
Eleven years ago, when I picked up my first camera, needing a creative outlet and seeking value, I never would have thought by 2023, I was stepping into the shoes of becoming an industry leader in my profession of photography. Thanks to your willingness to allow me to photograph you, I cultivated my craft and worked at The Portrait Masters Conference. I received invitations to share insights about my art on two distinguished podcasts: "Market Like a Boss and Thrive", and a feature on my work and advice on leveraging fear as motivation, along with the importance of continuous education, in Rangefinder. Lastly, I became a mentor and guided other women in their personal and professional journeys.
These moments are proof that no matter how difficult your journey may be, it can improve. Your life can unfold in ways you never thought possible when you embrace the power of change and go after what you want. So, I urge you to listen to that voice, your passion, fearlessly and unapologetically, and follow your dreams. Whether it’s moving to a new country and learning a new language, shifting careers, or finding yourself on the other side of the events that transform our lives, you are the purpose and you are the power. You get to design the life you think you deserve. I’m proof of that.
The beauty within us
Many of you know I worked on a two-year project called The Beyond 40 Revolution that became a book. I started this project with the desire to showcase the beauty of aging. I photographed 51 inspiring women who were in their 40s and beyond. This mission allowed me to challenge the awful beauty standards and societal expectations that teach us that age comes with a loss of beauty.
But it’s the exact opposite. Our wrinkles, age spots, lines, and parts we may try to hide, carry our life’s stories. They carry wisdom, adventures, pain, loss, success, children, love, joy, and everything in between. It is a privilege to age, grow, and transform year after year. Through the Beyond 40 Revolution, I learned an abundance of lessons from every powerful, unstoppable, and beautiful woman I photographed. Their vulnerability, strength, and authenticity to stand proudly in their skin and who they are inspired me to love myself in every stage of my life. Self-love is a journey that never truly ends. It evolves and deepens with each passing year, just like the beauty that comes with age. The Beyond 40 Revolution, now a book, has become a celebration of the stories etched on our bodies and the resilience in our hearts and serves as a reminder that beauty is not confined to youth. In fact, it grows richer, deeper, and wiser year after year.
2023 was special because of you
It is my greatest honor to photograph every single person that steps in front of my lens. This year I got to reconnect with clients that have come back several times. I got to connect with other remarkable humans. I got to travel to photograph leaders and executives in other cities across the country. I got to make art. I got to be of service. I got to facilitate empowerment for others to see within themselves. I got to celebrate the lives of people. And, I’m so grateful for that. I am reminded that every photograph holds a bit of magic. It’s not just an image; it’s a catalyst for self-discovery, empowerment, and acceptance. Thank you.
A new year brings reflection, growth, and more opportunities to live and love
I am committed to paying it forward and will continue to create spaces where we can celebrate and uplift each other. The journey from that first click of the camera to standing proudly as a mentor and industry leader has been a testament to the power of pursuing one's passion and the incredible community that forms around it. As I welcome this new chapter, I am filled with gratitude for the moments we shared, the lessons we learned, and the countless stories captured through my lens. Together, let's keep creating, inspiring, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the world of photography and beyond. And as we step into 2024, I carry with me the immeasurable impact you've had on my artistry and heart. Here's to another year of embodying the beauty within and accepting the duality that life brings.
Happy holidays and all my love,
Judith