07/10/2026
Six years. 🤍
Six years ago, I picked up a camera with a dream and no idea where it would take me.
These last six years haven’t just been about becoming a photographer—they’ve been about building a life I’m proud of. They’ve been filled with early morning editing, late night shooting, countless miles on the road, red bull fueled days, and learning everything I possibly could.
For years, I balanced school, River Canyon Espresso, and photography. Every spare moment, every paycheck, every late night, and every weekend went into building this dream.
The last three years have stretched me more than I ever imagined. While stepping into photography full-time, I still held onto my coffee shop job because letting go of something familiar was scary (I’m technically still employed lmao). Even when your heart knows it’s time, taking that leap isn’t easy.
I’ve also faced battles behind the scenes that many of you will never know about. Some days, simply showing up felt hard. There were moments over the last three years when life completely changed me. The kind of moments that break you before they rebuild you. While celebrating your milestones, I was quietly trying to survive my own. But every time I picked up my camera, I remembered why I started.
Building this dream has come with sacrifices. I’ve missed birthdays, family dinners, holidays, and time with friends because I was working toward this goal. I don’t regret it—it helped me build the business I have today—but I hope this next chapter brings more balance. I want more time with the people I love while continuing to do what I love.
To everyone who has supported me from the beginning, and to those who just found me yesterday, thank you. Every session, wedding, referral, comment, and kind word has helped me get here.
Six years later, I’m still learning, still growing, and still dreaming bigger. This season is about trusting myself, embracing the uncomfortable, choosing faith over fear, and believing in the dream I’ve spent six years building.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for allowing me to tell your stories. Here’s to year 6 and everything still to come….. plus working on Sydni Billups | PNW Bo***ir Photographer 🤍
📸: Lilee Peralta | Washington Photographer