The end of the year is here — and looking back on it — it has been one of the most amazing and eye opening years that I can remember. The obstacles I’ve overcome — and more importantly — the obstacles I’ve learned to be on the lookout for in the future have been huge to me this past year. I’ve welcomed some amazing new people in my life both professionally and personally — people that inspire and encourage me. I’ve got a new charity project in the works that involves my photography that has me both excited and frightened at the same time. I’ve shot some amazing jobs this past year and finally feel like the hard work I’ve been putting in is beginning to pay off. I feel like I’m in a great place right now in regards to my life and photography, and I just can’t express in words how amazing that feels, especially after all the times I’ve felt like I wasn’t in such a good place.

I thought about sharing some of my favorite photos from this past year in this post, but while making up a list of those that came to mind, one in particular stood out to me. This is it:

If you are interested in reading the story behind it, check out my blog post titled, “A Portrait For Prayer“. That will give insight into why it stood out to me above the rest. Runners up to this one can be found in the following blog post:

* Give More : Hate Less

* Give More : Hate Less : Part 2

* Thanksgiving :: I’m Thankful For Being Thankful

None of these were paid assignments — which I guess is proof of how important it is to still shoot for yourself as a commercial photographer. Clients, family, friends, and God — thank you for being part of an amazing year to me. My one main goal and resolution this coming year is to do everything within my control to feel the same way about 2013 that I now feel about 2012. I want to feel like I’ve accomplished something and have lived up to my potential in life, whatever that may be. That’s it.

To each of you that read this, I wish you all the best in The New Year. Cheers.