New Year, New-ish Me: My Goals 2026 as a Wedding Photographer With a 9-to-5.
- Victoria Gail
- Jan 7
- 4 min read
The start of a new year is the perfect time to slow down, reflect, and realign. As an Ohio wedding photographer serving Cleveland, Columbus, Chicago, and Beyond I’m stepping into this year with intention—focused on growth, creativity, and building a photography business rooted in connection.
In 2025, I’ve learned that great wedding photography isn’t just about beautiful images. It’s about storytelling, trust, and creating an experience that allows couples to fully enjoy their day. Below are the goals I’m prioritizing this year—and how I plan to turn each one into action.
*** If you’re new here, you can view my recent work on my Wedding Gallery's Page.
1. Refining My Creative Style & Storytelling
One of my main goals this year is continuing to refine my voice as a documentary-style wedding photographer in Ohio. My approach centers on candid moments, emotional storytelling, and images that feel timeless rather than trendy or too traditional.
How I plan to accomplish this:
Slowing down and photographing moments as they naturally unfold
Focusing on candid, storytelling-driven wedding photography vs. posed perfection
Studying light, composition, and emotion over trends
Trusting my creative instincts more fully
Creating space for personal projects and creative shoots during my "off-season."
This intention allows me to deliver timeless wedding photography that reflects real emotion—images my couples can return to for decades.
2. Elevating the Client Experience from Inquiry to Gallery Delivery
Being a wedding photographer in Cleveland, Columbus, throughout Ohio, and Chicago means providing more than just photos. This year, I’m focused on creating an even more seamless and supportive experience for every couple I work with.
How I plan to accomplish this:
Streamlining communication and response times
Providing clearer wedding photography guides, timelines, and walkthroughs.
Being fully present and calm on wedding days soaking up every moment
Delivering galleries with even more intention and care than I already do
Listening to client feedback and improving wherever possible and whenever possible
From the first inquiry to the final gallery, my goal is for every couple to feel confident, comfortable, and cared for.
3. Growing as a Photographer and Social Media "Superstar"
As a small business owner and creative entrepreneur in the Midwest, I’m committed to growing a photography business that’s both sustainable and fulfilling. While I'm not the greatest at it, one of my leading priorities this year is to get better about posting more on social media.
How I plan to accomplish this:
Improving backend workflows and client systems
Mass schedule posting on Instagram and maybe even starting up a Tiktok account? Pinterest??
Sharing behind-the-scenes moments from wedding days and portrait sessions
Creating educational content for engaged couples
Posting intentionally rather than chasing trends
Highlighting emotion, not perfection
A strong business foundation allows me to show up creatively and serve my couples at the highest level.
4.Shooting for Fun and for Show
Consistency is key when it comes to connection. As a Cleveland and Chicago wedding photographer, I want my online presence to reflect the heart behind my work. With that, this means getting back to my roots and shooting just because and for work. During my "down season" I love getting together with my friends and shooting portraits just for fun- that is how I got started after all and I want to do more of that more often.
How I plan to accomplish this:
Spending time coming up with content and prompts that bring me joy in a casual setting.
Creating healthy boundaries between work-life balance
Making decisions with long-term growth in mind
Investing in education and mentorship
Prioritizing Balance, Rest & Creative Longevity
Burnout is common in the wedding industry, and this year I’m being intentional about rest so I can continue doing my best work. In addition to being a full-time photography pro, I also have a full-time 9-to-5 and a career in Higher Education.
How I plan to accomplish this:
Building margin into my schedule
Prioritizing time in my schedule for rest, exercise, and no-photography related hobbies that bring me joy and balance.
Creating clear separation between work and personal life
Allowing creativity to ebb and flow naturally
Staying grounded in why I started being a professional photographer
A rested photographer is a better storyteller—and that benefits every couple I serve.
What I’m Letting Go of This Year
Comparison and creative pressure
Overworking without intention
Perfectionism (but i'll be honest, this one is the hardest for me)
Fear of failure
Imposter Syndrome
Doing things simply because “that’s how it’s always been done” or "because its trendy."
Looking Ahead to the Year to Come
This year is about clarity, growth, and storytelling with heart. I’m endlessly grateful for the couples who trust me with their most meaningful moments, and I’m excited for the stories still to come.
If you’re searching for an Ohio wedding photographer who values emotion, connection, and timeless imagery—whether you’re planning a wedding in Cleveland, Columbus, Chicago, or beyond—I’d love to connect.
Reach out through my Inquiry Page to inquire about your wedding date or dream session!
Here’s to a year of intention, creativity, and unforgettable moments.
