Welcome 2026!
Everything thats coming, brewing, and growing at AJP
Happy New Year! Writing these words feels surreal. Seriously, where did the year go? This morning I’ll be logging back onto my 9-5 job1 for the first time in two weeks. Talk about the Monday-est of Mondays. As bittersweet as it is to bid the holidays adieu, the new year also brings so much excitement, and I’m thrilled to share what’s on my heart for my photography this coming year.
Build Community:
I’m a firm believer that other artists aren’t competition, and instead make me a better artist. With that in mind, I’m excited to make connections with other photogs this year — especially those who, like me, are towards the beginning of their journey. This year, I plan to set aside an hour once a month for “office hours” at a local coffee shop and invite other photographers to join me for brainstorming/big dreaming time. Stay tuned for details!
Special Projects:
The winter and spring tend to be slower months for photography, but that doesn’t mean I plan to let my camera collect dust on a shelf! I have a couple of special projects I want to develop. One focuses on the importance of headshots in the age of AI and the other seeks to create beauty in unexpected locations. I’ll be releasing information about both these projects and asking for participants in the coming weeks. Participants will receive a gallery from the project, free of charge, but must be willing to allow use of the images on my social media, website, newsletter, etc. Reach out if either of these sounds like something you want to be a part of!
Portfolio Sessions:
These sessions will be discounted sessions designed to fill out my portfolio. I’m looking for more couples/engagement, maternity, and seniors. I’m also including play-focused family sessions at local playgrounds as well. Participants will receive a gallery from the session and must be willing to allow the use of images on my social media, website, newsletter, etc. Reach out if this sounds like you!
Seasonal Sessions:
I experimented with some seasonal sessions for some friends at the end of 2025, and I had so much fun that I’ll be bringing this back and expanding the idea for 2026! Think Mother’s Day Flower Minis, Christmas Studio Minis, Christmas Studio Minis and more.
Experiment with Film:
Film photography has been such a joy and creative inspiration. In 2025, I even had my first-ever film-only session! While I’m not quite ready to offer this more broadly, I have some special ideas to capture on film this winter, and I hope to have 1-2 hybrid film/digital sessions later on in 2026. Is film something you’re interested in? Let me know!
Invest in Growth:
Photography is a skill I’m always interested in developing. This year I plan to invest in more education, whether that’s a class or in person styled shoot experience. Similarly, this year I plan to experiment and master a few more technical skills and equipment to elevate my work, both for my clients and for my own personal projects as well.
Refine the Experience:
Both my photography and my business have come a long way since I started in fall 2024, but there’s always room to grow. I’ll be refining my editing style and making some tweaks to elevate my customer experience. Being more consistent with this newsletter also fits into this category! Moving forward, you can expect this to hit your inboxes on the first and third Mondays of the month.
Plus, as always, I’ll be experimenting more, shooting more, and always chasing the light. What ideas for AJP are YOU most excited about? Are there any you want to be a part of? Let me know!
Until then, wishing you the happiest of new years and delight in the year ahead.
Amelia
Did you know that photography isn’t my full-time gig? During the weekdays, I also work full-time in Digital Marketing!