2016 in Review – Carlee Secor Photography

This year was the most rewarding, inspiring, fulfilled year I think I’ve ever had. I traveled to two countries, both of which I’ve never been too before as well as visited Philadelphia for the first time. I opened a business in July and became official, I photographed 37 wonderful clients and I thank them all for an amazing year.

Rewind to January to celebrating the New Year of 2016 in Puerto Rico with my lovely family. We spent FAR too much time in the airport, but we had an amazing time none the less and it was interesting experiencing a new culture. PS. there were puppies everywhere (which is terribly sad but how could you resist?)

We got home and I signed the lease for my first apartment and spent a ton of time decorating. My apartment looks nothing like these pictures anymore (I’m really indecisive when it comes to decorating).

I celebrated my 19th birthday at my favorite restaurant, KOKO sushi. I started my first semester of college the next day, as a Photography and Business Management Major, I am now majoring in Graphic Design and Business Management. Needless to say January was an exciting and fun-filled month for me.

 Come February, Marlee Moore (my niece) was born. We spent the whole month giving her a lot of love. She was Born 4.9oz on February 17th! She was so small.

In March, I photographed Emma. I believe this was one of my first portrait sessions. My style has changed incredibly and I would say my work looks nothing like this anymore. I have grown so much, it’s fun seeing the difference in just a few months.

In May after I finished my last first college finals, I traveled to the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana with my boyfriend Peter. It was the prettiest country I have ever been too. The beach was so shallow, warm and had no waves. It was extremely hot, but that’s what you get for traveling in May! We made friends with the staff, and the people were so friendly. I can’t wait to go back!

My uncle had a soft opening for friends and family of his brand new restaurant DanDan. Our whole family drove down to test out the new menu. Peter and I also visited the Milwaukee Art Museum for the first time.

I left my job at Hinterland Brewery in May, for another job that didn’t end up working out. Thankfully, that is the reason I am where I am with my photography/business. I miss waitressing, here are some loyal customers 🙂

I then photographed Brittney, who was my first senior of the year. It was something totally for fun mainly to build my portfolio. I had so much free time, I turned to photography to help occupy me. These pictures really changed a lot for me. (again, WOW has my style changed!)

I purchased my LLC in July and became an official business. A big turning point for me.

In August, Kennedy was one of my seniors. My favorite session to date, these images make me miss my busy schedule and all my seniors.

My Images were also in YOU magazine for an ad for ZuLou. ZuLou also printed them for their storefront windows. It was a wonderful surprise seeing these.

In October, I attended my first workshop in Milwaukee, I learned a lot and made some new friends. One of my goals in 2017 is to attend another workshop.

Early November I visted Philadelphia for the first time, I also went to New York by bus. I have a entire blog post on my time in Philadelphia, but I sure do miss seeing the art on the streets and all the good food. It sure is nothing like Green Bay!

I planned my first styled shoot this month! I am still working on the images, but I shared a few. I was able to work with amazing vendors to make this happen. I’m so thankful, it wouldn’t have been this beautiful without them!

For the Holidays, I spent so much time with my family. Opening gifts and playing in the snow with my puppy. It was an incredibly long weekend but I had a lovely Christmas!

Now to write all my goals and challenges I plan to overcome for 2017. Have a Happy New Year!