What I’m Currently Learning & How It’s Shaping My Life + Business

Sometimes life feels like a whirlwind—am I right?! Days roll by, nonstop, and amid the usual “maybe it’ll slow down next week” hope, I’m taking a moment to pause, reflect, and share what’s really happening behind the scenes here in my photography world—and honestly, in life too.

Most days, I get tucked away in my own little bubble of business and life and forget that even though I’m pretty open on Instagram (and in real life, let’s be honest), you only get to see a tiny peek behind the curtain. It’s so refreshing to be open about growth, celebrate wins, and speak about the challenges too. So today, I want to give you a little glimpse into what I’m learning and working on—and how that’s helping me serve you better. Because I truly believe vulnerability and honesty are the bridges that connect us best.

callie doty, newborn photographer, beautiful bedroom, lifestyle photography, raleigh durham nc

LIFE: What I’m Learning Right Now | Embracing Summer Rhythms AKA Messy Houses and Slower Seasons Are Okay)

Summer rhythms feel different—and that’s totally okay. As much as I love a tidy space and checking off my to-do list, I’m learning to embrace the mess: scattered toys, unmade beds, slow mornings that stretch into entire afternoons filled with backyard adventures and creative chaos—all while staying in pajamas just a little longer.

I’m reminding myself that in this slower season, my role isn’t just about entertaining the boys or keeping things spotless. It’s about being present—savoring the sun-soaked moments that bring out new freckles, spontaneous science experiments, and even those interruptions that throw off my best-laid plans.

Slowing down doesn’t mean falling behind; it means leaning fully into the beautiful season I’m actually living in. And friend, giving myself permission to skip the hustle has been so freeing.

Business: What I’m Learning Right Now |Session Videos

So here’s a big goal I’ve been working toward for 2025: creating session videos. This adds a new, richer layer of connection and richness to my work—and, honestly, it’s a little scary! I desperately wanted to slow down and spark more creativity this year, and video is pushing me to do just that. It’s tapping into a new part of my brain.

In video, you’ll see the little moments: a baby rocked in dad’s arms (moments they’ll outgrow), big sister’s laugh as she leans in to kiss baby’s forehead, & the joy you wear while holding your whole world in your arms.

Capturing these real, unscripted snippets is both challenging and humbling, but I’m loving how it lets me share my heart behind each session—a way for you to see the quiet, unnoticed glimmers of motherhood.

doorway newborn photography, beautiful home, porch photography, raleigh nc maternity
doorway newborn photography, beautiful home, porch photography, raleigh nc maternity

Life: What I’m Actively Working On | Cultivating Balance for a Successful Next Season

Taking what I’m learning with slow seasons & embracing summer rhythm, I’m actively working on creating better balance and setting clear boundaries—both in life and business—as I prepare for the busy seasons ahead.

I love that quote: saying “yes” to something means saying “no” to something else- you’ve maybe heard me talk about it before. I’m constantly looking at decisions through that lens. What am I saying “yes” to- what does that mean I’m saying “no” to? What do I love doing in life + business, what brings me joy, what creates a healthy space for our family, what am I good at? What is draining? When it gets busy, if I don’t have strict lines set, decision making gets blurry. I find myself piling on more, saying “yes” without being intentional, dreaming without the grounding & I get in over my head. This leads to burnout and broken promises.

So while life is slowing down and my brain has some free space, now is when I need to set those lines. When are my office hours? When will I check emails? When will I accept sessions? When will I prep meals or order takeout? When will I clean or hire help? When will I schedule social media? When will I handle carpooling or school pickups?

It’s not always easy—sometimes it means disappointing people or rearranging plans—but these boundaries are the foundation for a thriving season ahead. One where I can pour out fully without burning out.

When I’m balanced, rested, and living with purpose, it shows in every session—in my patience, presence, and the joyful energy I bring to your family’s story. Your experience with me is shaped by how well I care for myself and honor the rhythms in my own life.

newborn with mom and dad, beautiful newborn photography, raleigh nc newborn photographer, elevated newborn, luxury newborn

Business: What I’m Actively Working On | Refining Edits

Editing is tricky for me to talk about because I never want anyone to think I’m not confident in what I send in your gallery or that I could “do better.” You always deserve my best. But here’s the truth: as technology evolves (hey-o AI) and I keep growing through education, I will get better. Full stop.

I think of editing sort of like fashion. Yes, I want “my style” to feel like a comfy pair of jeans—worn in just right, perfectly slipping on no matter how many sushi rolls I ate. But I also want it to evolve as styles change and elevate over time. Not going full barrel jeans or wild trends, but maybe putting away the skinnies for some wider leg, you know?

So no, I’m not going dark and moody or making huge leaps. Unless you are a photographer, you might barely notice the tweaks I’ve been making over the past year. It’s a fine art of subtle shifts that lead to jaw-dropping, consistent final images.

elevated newborn photography, luxury, beautiful bedroom, black four post bed, raleigh nc
newborn, raleigh, nc, luxury, elevated bedroom

Let’s Share the Journey

What about you? What are you learning or working on right now? What rhythms or boundaries are you learning to embrace or create right now? Whether it’s photography, parenting, or something totally different, sharing helps us grow together.

Feel free to reply or drop a comment—I’d love to celebrate your journey and maybe pick up a tip or two from what you’re discovering.

And if you’re ready for a photography experience that meets you where you are, that honors your family’s rhythm and realness, just say the word.—slower seasons, and all—I’m here with open arms and a camera ready.
toddler, porch swing, real life, porch photography
Next
Next

Let me shoot my shot | Why am I the BEST Raleigh Durham Newborn Photographer for YOU?