If it excites you and scares you at the same time, it probably means you should do it!

For the past 5 months, I have been participating in a high level photography Mastermind with Elena S. Blair Photographer, the family photographer I most admire and aspire to.  It has already been such a transformational experience for me. You can see information on the Mastermind here: https://www.elenasblair.com/the-elena-s-blair-mastermind

It has given me so much focus and vision for my business, a lot of help on the back end of my photography business and a new group of photographer friends to share ideas with.   I will actually be sad when it comes to an end this month.

And how it ends is with an in-person photography retreat in Napa Valley, California at the end of June and I have decided to go. 
I know!  It’s a big deal and thus enters the feelings of being excited and scared at the same time.

I want him to see his mama living her life, following her dreams and not giving up her life

Siobhan COYNE

California Dreamin’

Excited to go, have time out and a break from work and the routine of every day and to meet all the wonderful female photographers I have spent the past five months on zoom with every week.  To meet and learn from my mentor Elena S. Blair and the other renowned photographers she has guest speaking and demonstrating at the retreat.  The experience will no doubt help my business and feed my soul immensely.    On top of that, I also get to spend time with my sister Caterina in Los Angeles. https://www.caterinacoyne.com

What has me scared is leaving my little man Liam for a week.   The mom guilt is real, so real it almost stopped me from saying yes in the first place.  We as mums feel as though we “shouldn’t do that” or “couldn’t possibly leave the kids or put ourselves first”.   I am not prepared to be away from him that long and I will probably have an emotional episode on the bus or plane or likely both!

But what I have realised is, it is not going to stop me going now.   It is going to make me treasure the experience, the alone time and the opportunity even more.

“If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you”

I work from home, so unless I am on a photoshoot, I am around for Liam 24/7.  But I want him to see his mama living her life, following her dreams and not giving up her life for him.  But instead, showing him what is possible, that you can have a family and thrive in every way and that is something our children deserve to see.  

Don’t get me wrong, out of all the hats I wear, my role as Liam’s Mum is by far my greatest achievement and the best thing that has ever happened to me.  However, I for one think it is healthy for our children to see us work and have a full and complete life.   

My family photography business has brought so many amazing people to my life that my former career never would have. The connections I’ve made and the journey I have been on, have all led me to this moment and have all been completely worth it. And, let me tell you, I’m just getting started!

I am back in early July and my summer photography schedule is already very busy. So, if you are interested in getting on my calendar for a family photoshoot, fill out my contact form and let’s make it happen