Back in college, when I first picked up a camera, I never dreamed I'd take photos professionally. Almost two decades later, and it's crazy to think I've had this little side hustle since 2013! Photography has been such an instrumental part of my life, and has opened so many doors for me -- from new friends to some really unique and incredible experiences.

Here's a look back at some of my favorite photos from the last decade!

It's funny... the older I get the more I grow to appreciate and -- dare I say -- even love winter. As brutal and gloomy as this season may feel to some, I've learned to embrace the darkness and the cold and reflect upon what winter teaches us about life. To me, there's something special about turning inward, slowing down, finding peace, and just being. That's what this season means to me, and its why Winter Solstice has become one of favorite days of the year. 

I couldn't have picked a better way to spend Solstice than with this gorgeous family. Mom Alysson and Dad Yemboado were so lovely to work with, but for me, the star of the show was daughter Siena. She came fully prepared with her own ideas for photos -- and they worked out surprisingly well! During she session we sang, we danced, we even pretended she was a forest queen who lived in a cave! It's been awhile since I've had such creative fun at a family photo session!

As excited as I am to Alysson and Yemboado as neighbors, I'm just as thrilled that their kiddos will get to grow up surrounded by nature. Even for an adult, Sligo Creek is full of beauty and surprises. I can only imagine this place must be a goldmine for kids, and I hope Alex and Siena grow to love the parkway as much as I do. Based on the fun we had during our time together, something tells me they're already well on their way... :)

Since its getting colder outside I've been doing more and more family sessions indoors, which is such a treat. It gives me an opportunity to hone some skills I don't always get to use, and I get a glimpse of the way others live, which is always fun :)

Getting to work with this Silver Spring family was especially exciting. They live in a mid-century modern masterpiece built by famed architect Charles Goodman. If you don't know much about Charles or his work, definitely read up. He designed a few different neighborhoods here in the DMV and the original national airport just outside of DC. Having the opportunity to experience one of his creations was such an added bonus to the time I got to spend with this family!

Ade, Zac, and Ethan are such a joy. It's clear how much mom and dad absolutely adore their little one. Ethan is a charmer and was more than happy to show me his toys, including his favorite farm animal puzzle. When it was time to go outside, he was all about the swinging, which -- pro tip -- always makes for really adorable photos.

I wish Ade, Zac, and Ethan -- and everyone reading this post -- a warm holiday season and blessings for a bright New Year.

I had such a wonderful time a few weekends ago helping this beautiful family welcome their newest member, sweet baby Selene. Proud parents Ian and Amy welcomed me to their home here in Silver Spring, where I spent a few hours watching them cuddle and coo their two precious babies.

As much as I adore photographing newborns, the best part of this photoshoot was getting to know big sister Angela. She's one of those kids with real personality, and it was so fun watching her react to the camera and working with her to draw out her best smile. I can already tell Angela is going to be one great older sister.