If you’re on my VIP Newsletter list, you already heard the longer version of this story — the one where a night out playing bingo turned into a reminder about how I navigate the world. But here’s the streamlined blog-friendly version, along with the deeper reflection that came out of it.

A few weeks ago, I went to bingo for the first time since the 90s — back when I’d tag along with my dad at the Legion, and the tables were piled high with cards, coffee cups, and that electric sense of competition only experienced by people holding dabbers like weapons.

This time, it was just a couple of girlfriends and me, walking into a bingo hall with absolutely no plan. Fifteen minutes before start time. No idea how anything worked. No clue what to buy or where to stand. Chaos everywhere.

And within seconds, I remembered something important about myself:
I do not thrive in confusion.
If I don’t know what to expect, my brain goes directly to overwhelm.

We eventually figured things out, played a tiny “entry-level” version, and had fun — but only after the initial fog lifted.

And that small moment highlighted something bigger:

Trying something new always feels overwhelming until you understand what’s coming.

• It’s not about being rigid or controlling.
• It’s about clarity.
• About knowing what you’re stepping into.
• About feeling grounded, not lost.

And that realization rolled right into how I’m stepping into this year — intentionally, thoughtfully, and with a plan.

As a Vancouver Island photographer who works with dogs, horses, and families, planning isn’t just part of my business; it’s woven into my life. I want people to feel comfortable. I want them to feel prepared and supported. And honestly? I want that for myself too.

So this year, I’m building things intentionally — not on the fly, not by winging it, and definitely not by wandering into another bingo hall unprepared.

Here’s what that looks like:

What’s Coming in 2025

(Vancouver Island • Dog Photography • Horse Photography • VIP Micro Sessions)

VIP-Only Spring Micro Sessions

This year, our VIP newsletter community will get first access to a brand-new offering:
20-minute spring micro sessions.
Simple, low-pressure, and perfect for anyone wanting a short, meaningful portrait experience with their dog or horse.

Summer Interior Trip

I’ll be traveling to the BC Interior this summer to photograph dogs, horses, and families in those wide-open landscapes I adore. It’ll be a mix of client sessions and personal creative work.

Dog-Friendly Markets

Expect to see me at a few Vancouver Island dog-friendly markets. I love meeting other pet people in person, showing printed artwork, and sharing what pet portrait sessions can look like.

A Few Fundraisers

Community work matters to me, and I’m planning a couple of fundraisers in 2025. If you have ideas or know of an organization doing meaningful work, I’d love to hear about them.

And On the Personal Side…

Because planning isn’t only about the business.
This year also includes:
– getting back into the gym,
– diving deeper into my bitters obsession (in search of the perfect summer near-wine),
– and long, grounding hikes with Honey on Vancouver Island’s forests and beaches.

• All of it with intention.
• All of it with clarity.
• All of it designed to create a year that feels grounded instead of chaotic.

Why This Matters For Photography Clients

Whether you’re booking a dog photography session, a horse portrait session, or a family session, planning matters. It creates calm. It minimizes the unknowns. And it lets you walk into the experience feeling informed, prepared, and supported.

The bingo night reminded me — again — why I structure things the way I do.
Because stepping into something new doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
And a little clarity goes a long way.