This year has truly been a whirlwind of activity and goodness for my business. Here are some of the highlights.
Pets of the 603
I published my first book!
The year began with the idea of doing a book project benefitting Mary's Dogs Rescue and Adoption. Little did I know how well the book would do and how much we would be able to raise for the rescue. In all Golden Dog Adventure Co (who partnered with me) and I donated just over $15,000.
Part of the money raised was via 20 rescue dog families who paid to participate in the book. Through those 20 families, I professionally photographed 40 dogs including my own rescue girl Birdie. I subsequently designed and published the hard cover book that each participant received a copy of.
Photo sessions for the book began in early spring and finished up in September. Sessions occurred in many locations including the seacoast, local parks as well as in my home studio. I got to work with a lot of new people and pups.
Part of the money raised was via an online voting contest to determine who would grace the cover of the book. That portion of the project alone raised over $8,000 with Erica Marino's two dogs Pepper and Tilly winning that spot.
The last portion of the project was a book launch party and silent auction where we raised even more money. Me and one other person at the event banded together to win lunch with Tom Bergeron! I can't wait for that to happen in the spring.
Lavender
Just at the height of summer, I had my lavender sessions. I absolutely love these sessions. They are so unique and the hosting farm is just so gracious to let me use their space. I dub these sessions part of my Fur and Flowers series. If you're interested in a lavender session for 2024, be sure to get on my waitlist to be the first to book.
Teaching
This year was the first time I taught pet photography. I started with a Professional Photographers of America (PPA) spring training workshop. I then went on to teach for the New Hampshire Professional Photographers Association (NHPPA), the Rochester Camera Club and finally for Vermont Professional Photographers (VPP). I never thought I'd enjoy teaching, but it really has been fun.
PPA-Master of Photography Degree
Through the PPA organization, I've been diligently chipping away at earning my Master of Photography degree. I'm happy to announce, I got word that I met all the necessary requirements for my degree in November 2023. Teaching and entering Images for Review through the year, helped me earn the credits to earn my degree. I'll be able to formally receive my degree at a degree ceremony in January. Below are some of the images that helped me earn my degree.
Education
I attended two fantastic conferences this year. The first was Imaging USA in Tennessee, where I was able to take some classes with other talented photographers on pet photography and business specific education. This conference also has numerous product vendors that allows me to see all the new products that I can offer.
The second conference was Shutterhound in Las Vegas. This conference was 100% about pet photography with some incredibly talented pet photographers from around the world teaching their craft.
Holiday Sessions
In November I held my 4th annual holiday sessions benefitting Greater Derry Humane Society.
In the Media
As a result of my book project, I secured a spot on the cover of the Concord Monitor newspaper.
And to finish out my year, I was interviewed by NH Chronicle. Erin Fehlau of NH Chronicle interviewed me to discuss my book project and my pet photography business. The story will air on January 8th. I'm super nervous about how it will turn out but also incredibly excited about it. I hope you'll tune in.
2023 was an amazing year. Thank you to all of my clients and those who supported me throughout the year.
I wish all of you a happy and healthy 2024.
6 Comments
Dec 29, 2023, 3:59:04 PM
Angela - Congrats on busting out your first pet photography book! Those projects can be wildly time-consuming and stressful. I can't wait to see more of those lavender sessions out of New Hampshire. Gorgeous colors!
Dec 29, 2023, 1:41:58 AM
Elaine - Congratulations on your M. Photog degree, Sandra! I know exactly what that's like. LOL. Your lavender sessions and Christmas sessions are lovely. That is one of my favorite backdrops. Great year in review! Happy 2024!
Dec 28, 2023, 9:40:57 PM
Sharon - Congratulations on all your pet photography business accomplishments. What a great 2023 Year in Review, I loved reading it.
Dec 28, 2023, 9:18:37 PM
nancy - Congrats on everything. Wow! you had a lot of accomplishments to review for 2023. Doing everything you did And achieving your masters of photography is a wonderful achievement. i can't wait to see how your 2024 unfolds.
Dec 27, 2023, 12:41:01 PM
Darlene - Congrats on your book, Sandra, and an amazing 2023 in dog photography- Mary's Dogs in NH must be thrilled! Looks like a fun year! Woohoo! Happy New Year!
Dec 27, 2023, 12:24:24 PM
Kim Hollis - All I can say is wow! You've accomplished so much and I loved reading all about your 2023 Year in Review. You are a gem in the pet photography world and we are lucky to have you!