As the end of the year approaches, I start thinking about goals I’d like to accomplish during the upcoming year.  Below is a list of goals for the next 5 years.  The first three items are things I would like to accomplish in 2020.

1. Create an email list.

I want to send out emails twice a month for people who are interested in reading my blog posts, finding out when mini-sessions are happening or interested in learning about other deals I may be offering.  I will be adding this to my website in the early part of the year.  If your interested in signing up early, send me a message from my contact page.

2. Scout for more locations in Austin.

When I know a location and the way lighting effects it, the more I can focus on the photoshoot itself and not the technical side of things.  I plan to go out and scout for more locations in the early part of the year.  Look for my blog posts about locations.

3. Photograph more landscapes.

This is something I’ve been wanting to do for a while since I’ve moved to Austin, but have had trouble finding the time.  My goal is to shoot one new landscape a month.  If I am successful, there will most likely be a blog post about it!

4. Volunteer photographic services.

I have been thinking of volunteering my photography services to Austin Pets Alive if there is a need.  I would assume having good images of pets can be helpful in finding animals homes.  If this isn’t an option, then I’m sure I can find another way to volunteer that would have meaning for me.

5. Photograph the same location year-round.

Find a location and take a photo of it during every season.  This is something that is not a high priority, but would be a fun project if I can find the time.

6. Exhibit my work.

When I was in Portland, I used to have exhibits at an event called last Thursday.  If I do get around to shooting more landscapes, then maybe I could find a place to exhibit them.

I’ve been researching different photo gift idea options. Below are some ideas I’ve either tried or that interest me.

1. Ornaments & Coasters at Shutterfly

Shutterfly has so many options, it’s almost overwhelming. However, the ornaments I’ve ordered in the past have turned out nicely! Looks like they have a variety of options for coasters as well, which I think would make great gifts.

2. Photo Books at Printique

I absolutely love the quality of photo books at Printique (formerly adoramapix). The books have thick pages and covers and this is what I use personally for my business.

Although if you’re looking for a better value, there’s quite a few options. The ones I’ve been happy with in the past are Shutterfly and Mixbook.

3. Blankets at Costco

Blankets are now a thing and a family member just ordered one from Costco for my daughter as a Christmas gift. It turned out really nice and looks pretty cozy!

4. Puzzles at Ravensburger

I love puzzles and in the early days of photo gifts, I remember ordering a photo puzzle online and it was pretty flimsy and hard to deal with. However, if you order one from Ravensburger, they are very sturdy and come in a nice tin box. It might be too late to order a customized photo puzzle this year in time for the holidays, but I still highly recommend Ravensburger for gifts for puzzle lovers in general.

5. Creative Photo Gifts at Personalization Mall

While exploring creative options, I came across a few other ideas that sparked my interest.  These items are a Photo LED Light Shadow Box and a Photo Rubik’s Cube. They can both be found at Personalization Mall, which I have not used before, but may have to try!

Well that’s all I’ve got for now.  Some of these items may not be able to ship in time for the holidays.  If that’s the case, then hopefully this info can be helpful for gift ideas in the upcoming year!