It’s the time of year when the family photo bookings slow down significantly, and I spend a lot of time reflecting over the past season of photography, and planning for the future. Lately, I’ve been spending a lot of time thinking about our stories – who we are, how we got to this place in our lives, how our past experiences changed and affected us, what lights us up, what makes us smile.

So, I thought I’d shine a little light on my own story, and how I got to this happy spot in my life as a family photographer.

The truth is, I didn’t start out as a photographer. I was not that teenager with a camera who loved taking photos. I was not a visual artist in high school. I didn’t study photography at university (I have a degree in English Literature and Theatre). My first post-secondary job had nothing to do with photography (I was an event coordinator). I didn’t even own a decent camera until about 10 years ago, and even then, I had no clue how to use it.

But almost 10 years ago, I took myself on a month-long, solo trip to Bordeaux, France after quitting my full-time job. I needed to clear my head and give myself space to dream and plan and imagine a life for myself that brought me joy. It was a whole month of cheesy soul-searching, self-help-book-reading, life-expounding, please-universe-help-me-find-some-direction goodness. 

And I found photography. My fancy camera made the journey with me, and after dusting it off, I took a whole bunch of horrible, self-indulgent, artsy-fartsy photos of the city – but I loved it! I had absolutely no clue what I was doing. I had no idea what the buttons and dials on my camera did. I didn’t know what exposure or aperture or shutter speed or ISO were. But I was in love.

I discovered that I loved photographing people. Because every person is different, and every connection you make with another person is different. So, the potential to make unique and beautiful photos of people is endless.

I’m an introvert at heart, but when I’m photographing an individual or family, my extroverted side comes out. I can’t stop asking them questions, learning about their lives, telling jokes and relating stories. I live for real smiles, playfulness and thoughtful, quiet moments. I honestly believe that people look best when they are being truly and authentically themselves.

(And then after a shoot, in true introvert fashion, I go home to hibernate and recharge!)

Now, almost 10 years later, I’ve educated myself on all the technical aspects of photography through tons of online classes, conferences and practice. But for me, the heart and soul of photography still comes from the people that I work with.

When the world shut down in the spring of 2020, I worried that eran jayne photography would have to shut down too. I couldn’t imagine what I would do instead (especially when I couldn’t take myself on another self-discovery trip to France!). Where would I find this joy and connection and creativity again?

But, as always, it came down to the people. You came through, you made your families your #1 priority, you made beauty and authenticity a priority ~ and I got to capture it all with my camera, making it my biggest year yet.

I don’t know what 2021 will bring, but I can’t wait to see!

Eran Sudds is a Tsawwassen photographer who specializes in fun & natural sessions for you and your entire family. She is available for maternity, newborn, family portraits and headshots at locations in South Delta, or anywhere in the Lower Mainland. Contact her to book your session!