Looking Back Through the Lens: A Year in Portraits

Hard to believe that another year has come and gone. And I suppose it’s inevitable that we all indulge in a little navel-gazing as to what we’ve accomplished in the past twelve months and wonder if we’re any better off for taking another trip around the sun.

For me, this year has continued to be an incredible journey into the unknown, both personally, and for my business. It’s been a year of growth, discovery, and memorable moments behind the lens. This year, I’ve had the privilege of working with so many remarkable individuals, and I’d like to share some of the highlights, lessons, and aspirations that have shaped my 2024.

One Giant Step

Probably the biggest leap forward was my rebranding from PHOTOMONKEY STUDIO to the more personal Warren Shepherd Photography. I knew in my heart that it had to be done, that the move to highlight my personal approach to portrait photography was the right course of action, both creatively and professionally. But the task seemed so onerous and soul-sucking that I dreaded the undertaking.

It was only through my much-valued consultation with renowned London-based portrait photographer, Tom Trevatt, that I was galvanized into action. His advice helped me fully embrace my identity as an artist and fine-tune my creative vision. (You can read the full story of my rebranding here.)

And now that the metamorphosis is complete, I feel a renewed sense of pride and accomplishment when I’m reminded that my own name is indelibly fused to my reputation, and permeates every image I create.

The Business of Photography

I’m not going to lie; it’s one thing being good at something, but being successful at it is a whole different animal. While mastering the art of capturing emotion and crafting stunning images is crucial, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. The reality is, being a successful photographer is as much about running a business as it is about creating art.

Aside from the constant honing of my creative techniques, marketing, client outreach, and networking have all been an integral part of my daily regimen for building up my business this year. Even the best photographs in the world won’t be seen without a consistent effort to share them.

There’s no denying it’s a challenge — it often feels as if you’re screaming into the void, never knowing if your strategies are hitting their mark or falling well short of your targets. But the work to connect with potential clients in order to build a brand that resonates with the people I want to work with never stops.

So when one of your strategies finally clicks, and you get that positive response, that call for a consultation, or the faint promise of a lucrative collaboration, the sense of fulfillment is exhilarating, and charges you full of renewed momentum. It’s a reminder of your worth, that you have value, and that your work is appreciated.

It’s All About The People

Business aside, the true satisfaction for me has always come from the people I’ve photographed. Anyone can learn the technical aspects of crafting the perfect shot or carefully constructing the most flattering angle, but the true art comes from building a meaningful connection with your clients.

Every person who stepped in front of my lens this year brought their own story, energy, and individuality. My goal - no, my responsibility - is always to peel back the layers and move beyond the stilted poses and pasted on expressions, to reveal something authentic and true. It’s been a sheer joy to meet so many unique and complex characters in 2024.

One case in particular resonates, where a previous client came to me with a specific mission to help her capture a very personal part of her emotional journey via an examination of her culture through vivid makeup and costume design.

A very personal exploration.

There was a unique magic in exploring those moments of vulnerability with her, seeing her let her guard down and allow her true essence come forward. There was sadness, strength, and quiet confidence in her expression of raw human beauty; it was one of the standout shoots of my year and reminded me why I love what I do.

For her, and all the people who challenged me to capture their true spirit this year, I thank you!

The Year Ahead

So what are my hopes for 2025?

Naturally, I will continue to provide my services to a wide array of clients. By building trust and creating a space where people feel seen, I can capture something that’s more than just a photograph — it’s a reflection of who they truly are. That connection, that shared moment of understanding, is at the heart of every portrait I take.

However, my most adventurous goal continues to be my drive to become a celebrity photographer. Certainly it’s an ambition that may seem bold, or far-fetched, or even arrogant, as if I’m punching above my weight. But as I’ve mentioned before, I’ve come into the world of portrait photography relatively late in my life, making me feel as if I don’t have enough runway to achieve lift-off.

That sense of urgency serves to sharpen my resolve and inspires me to swing for fences that my younger self may have felt were insurmountable. There’s an empowering strength that comes from the realization that at this stage of my life, I literally have nothing to lose by trying. What’s the old saying? “Fortune favours the bold.” Well, if you don’t try, you don’t get.

And people, be warned: I aim to be bold!