It’s hard to even know where to start. This past year was a real mixed shit-bag. The collective sadness. The not knowing. The fighting and anger. We all know. We lived it together in varying degrees and I know I have much to be grateful for.

I also learned a shit ton this year. I learned to listen to my gut - it knows more than I. I learned that I’ve been neglecting my body and that I want to take most of 2021 to feel better in this vessel. I learned that taking a walk can help reset depressed days. I learned that journaling improves my memory and helps me sort out my feelings or ideas. I learned that two people working from home isn’t exactly easy. I learned that my depression is still here but that doesn’t mean I can’t have happy days.

Winter

Was this a self-fulfilling prophecy? (found in January 2020)

The first shoot of the year at our old (now demolished) high school. I love that Jennifer + Mike wanted to document their maternity session where their story began :))

This was the awesome cake at their baby shower!!

Explored Eastern State Penitentiary with my partner and his mom.

Experimented with film more so in the beginning of the year

I was really happy that we got to see the Designs for Different Futures exhibit at the PMA. I just love the PMA but this was HANDS DOWN one of my favorite exhibits of all time. Of course, now it would be completely reimagined but at this time, I lov… — I was really happy that we got to see the Designs for Different Futures exhibit at the PMA. I just love the PMA but this was HANDS DOWN one of my favorite exhibits of all time. Of course, now it would be completely reimagined but at this time, I loved it. There’s a video here that you can check on on the museum website of the different exhibits & artists.

I got more comfortable in front of the camera - Carolyn Keys Jewelry Spring Collection 2020 before lock down. Carolyn Keys Jewelry

My mom bought a house with an actual Redwood Tree that the original owner started in the 1960s.

My piece was displayed high above the city at the Liberty One Observation Deck when everyone was on lock down. At least it lived in a fun place for a while.

My first solo bat mitzvah with Sarah and her family! Check out the full blog post at Avi Loren Fox Photography.

Spring

I love the panoramic option on the iPhone. It’s also crazy to see the slow growth of the forest coming back to life.

I searched for the rainbows in April

I learned to give myself more permission to create or do things that may not seem like “me.” I learned that you can’t please everyone and it’s ok. I learned to put myself out there, you never know what might come of it. I learned that jealousy can be revelatory and a propeller for change but also comparison is the death of joy. I learned to get off my phone and do shit. I learned more about this country, the people, our place in the world, and how to better discuss and navigate hard grey area topics. I learned what things were missing in my life and I’m still learning how to make those things a priority.

Photographed my first FaceTime Baby’s 1st Birthday Smash Cake Party with the adorable Gabriel!

And I bought my first car! Woo! It now has a dent in it! Boo.

The rainbows continued during the 1st wedding back after shut down shooting second with my awesome friend - Gabrielle - find her beautiful work and book a portrait session, you’ll feel so glamorous!!! click here :)

Started hunting for Chanterelle mushrooms

Summer

But apart from learning, I grieved things that could have been, trips missed out on, restaurants, movie theaters, museums and live shows I miss going to and long nights with friends. I’m grateful for the things I continue to bring into 2021 - my health, partner, family, friends, and employment.

I started selling more and more stickers :)

Laura + Kevin are just the sweetest. Check out all of the little details of their intimate wedding day Covid Part 1 :)) - check it out here!

The best part of 2020 has been creating. I have had the privilege to photograph many beautiful families, weddings, and bat mitzvahs. I created my first large scale mounted photos and I love how they look. I created several paintings, crocheted a blanket, and had many awesome zoom art nights. I created many custom designs using the laser engraver, figured out my Cricut machine (thank you Elena!) and was surprised out how both are similar file creation. I started listing on Etsy and my one design really took off! I am so grateful for everyone of my customers and friends who have bought art from me. They have driven much of my expansion. I'’m proud of how it’s building up and excited for more in 2021.

Had another styled shoot for my mom’s handmade jewelry - check it out here!

I spent a lot of time outside in nature with my partner and puppy. We basically kayaked our way through 2020. We found new places to explore, Betsy almost fought a bear, and camped while it snowed.

I checked several things off my resolution list from last year and considering the year we had - I’m proud! I was able to check another National Park off my list and visit a state I’ve never been to (several actually). I showed three pieces in a local office building. I made new friends and met fellow photographers. I gave myself permission to play and create. I did not read a book a month but completed 6 and half-read three so almost?