I want to take a moment and thank some amazing people in my life. When I was 15 I took a photography course in high school thinking it would be something I could get easy marks on. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would fall in love with the profession and what to pursue it as my career. When people in my graduating class spoke about going to school to become lawyers or doctors, I struggled with accepting the fact I wanted to do photography. I was mocked, I was told I would never amount to anything, that photography was silly and should only be done as a hobby. But I knew deep in my heart this was my passion. Two people who never discouraged me, who always supported me was my amazing parents.
All of my life my parents have wanted one thing from me, to do what makes me happy and put 100% into it. They encouraged me from day one with photography, they even bought me my first digital camera, a Canon 40D. They got me my first set of studio lights during my first year of University. They have never questioned me, told me to pursue something else or doubted me. I know I wouldn't be here today without their love and continued support. When I was going through a difficult time about a year ago, I wanted to quit. I wanted to sell everything and move on. My mum wouldn't let me. She refused to let me quit. She picked me up and pushed me to be better. She pushed me to keep going. I couldn't thank both of my parents enough for all they have done for me. I am truly blessed. My dad is my hero, he is the reason I work hard and strive to pursue my dream because thats exactly what he did. He worked his way up and has become so respected in his industry for his talent. My mum is my number one fan, she calls herself the creative director of Lisa-Marie Photography and that couldn't be more true, she comes up with concepts, designs jewelry and outfits and is the assistant for most of my shoots! She is my best friend and my inspiration. I wouldn't be as strong of a person as I am today if it wasn't for this woman. I love you Mum and Dad, with all of my heart. I will never be able to thank you both for everything you have done. But know that everything I do, I do because you have given me the strength and encouragement to keep going and make my dream come true. I am eternally grateful.
I also want to thank my boyfriend. He came into my life just under a year ago and has been the biggest support. He drives me to shoots, helps me set up, he even let me use his house as a studio while mine was under construction! He calls himself my biggest fan, even though he might need to fight my mum on that one! His family are so supportive and encouraging, their excitement throughout my journey has been overwhelming. I can't express how lucky, grateful and genuinely thankful I am to have these people in my life.
To those friends and supporters who have been there since the beginning and those who I have met along the way, thank you. I know a simple thank you could never be enough but I just want you all to know that I will be forever grateful. It means the world to me that I have so many amazing people in my life who encourage me to keep pursuing my dream.
Thank you all from the bottom of my heart, I will be forever grateful.
Until next time,
Lisa-Marie xo