I try to go to a workshop or photography conference once a year (though I’ve already done two this year!) because I’m a nerd and love to learn but more importantly I think it’s just really good for the soul. I went to Photo Native in January and this conference was different from ones I had been to before. First of all, I went with two of my closest photog friends Maryam of Hi+Hello Photography and Kim of Photos By Kim E so it was more like a girls weekend away which I have never done before and was so much fun! It also helped ease my intense anxiety of being in large groups of people I don’t know and leaving my littles so that was a big bonus.

I got my degree in photography and have been a photographer for 10 years since then so at this point it’s rare that I hear something new at these things. At Photo Native though I heard more than just how-to’s but I heard inspiring words on being a mother, human, business owner and photographer. And that my friends is all I needed in those moments. I was battling MAJOR burn-out from years of working incredibly hard non-stop. It was really nice to be with a group of ladies (and guys) who felt like we were all in this crazy journey together sharing so many of the same fears, struggles and questions. Everyone was incredibly nice so even the classes I went to alone I didn’t feel anxious or like a loner at all. I had to leave an event at a previous conference due to a panic attack from feeling alone so it was nice to feel welcomed by all there.

When I go to classes I’m usually not one to pick up the camera a lot. I’m there to soak up as much information and inspiration as I can. And honestly I usually need the break from my camera. However, during Becky Kimball’s class I couldn’t help but pick it up a few times since we were getting to shoot the sneak peek for Rylee & Cru’s SS18 line and I am a HUGE fan of their clothing and always buy my daughter (and even me) their clothing every time there’s a new release. Here’s a few images I grabbed quickly while there. I had just downloaded the new A Design Story app and since these were just for fun I decided to play by adding some fun elements to them using it.

Even though I need a break from my camera on these trips I am still a photographer and can’t help but want to document new places and experiences. I typically like to shoot film in these moments because it’s more cathartic for me and what I really need a break from is my computer so I love that I don’t have to come home to a million images to upload and edit. I decided to bring a new-to-me Canon AE-1 Program. I wasn’t even sure it would work so I  just kind of snapped at random while we walked around. I must say, Provo is pretty dang charming.  Here’s some of the images that came back from the roll: