My husband and I took a trip to Arizona recently for a photography conference, called Showit United. It was easily one of my favorite trips we’ve ever been on! We started in Tempe and Phoenix for the first five days for the conference, then we traveled to Sedona and The Grand Canyon for the last part of our trip! Before I get to share some highlights of the trip, I first want to talk more about the United conference.

This was an educational conference with speakers, breakouts, styled shoots, and so much more! I realized I cry more than the average human, no big deal. The speakers were beyond incredible. I felt renewed, inspired, and loved. I met some amazing photographer idols who I’ve followed for yearssss (including Jasmine Star who I got to meet and hug and obsess over)! I got to dress up for a beautiful gala with my hubby, made new friends, reunited with old friends, and grew closer to my dear friend from home. This was SO much more than just a photography conference, friends.

We all have a purpose. I have a purpose. YOU have a purpose.

You are heard, you are seen, you are loved, you are intelligent, you are beautiful, you matter, you are MORE than enough. We all have our valleys and challenges. You are not alone. Be generous, be kind, love hard. Put your mental health first. Give and give some more. Stay focused, be intentional, change your perception, be confident, and make sacrifices.

This is everything I took away from the conference. I mean, this was a photography conference, you guys!… Can you believe that? I feel like it was more of a spiritual journey. Don’t get me wrong, I learned A LOT about how to improve my business… but those are the topics that stuck in my head the most. These are the things that matter most to me. These are the things that will empower me to run a successful business. If I keep working hard towards being a good human, living intentionally, putting others first, and doing the things that make me feel whole, THAT is the only way I can foster this business.

A community that teaches these life lessons is a community I will forever be proud to be a part of. I am so grateful for the opportunity to attend this conference and to have witnessed the support, love, and kindness that it was built on. 

Now moving past the mushy gushy stuff, here comes the fun! This is where the awesome desert photos come in! I had so much fun photographing this stunning couple alongside two alpacas and the beautiful details. I knew I signed up for the “fiesta desert” styled shoot, but the alpacas were the best surprise EVER! 

Thank you, Raelene for this amazing experience! Vendors listed below–

Host- Raelene Schulmeister Photography

Florals- Bloominous

Cake- Sugar By Tracy

Gown- Bella Lily Bridal

And just for fun, I’ll share some shots I got of Alysha of Blessed Beginnings Photography, Jaimi of Jaimi Bailey Photography, some of my new headshots, and some fun traveling photos!