About a year ago, I found myself in an unexpected place—envying other photographers who were out there photographing the world.

It wasn’t bitterness but a longing that I couldn’t ignore. At the time, I was home, immersed in an incredible career of shooting for other people’s brands. It was rewarding work, but I started to notice a shift in my heart.

I missed photographing for fun.

For years, I had poured everything into building a successful photography business. The hustle had paid off—I had clients I loved and a steady stream of bookings. But suddenly, I felt a little lost. How could I be so fortunate and yet feel this unexpected longing?

That moment of envy turned out to be my compass.

Recognising Envy as a Signal

I’ve learned over the years that envy, in small doses, isn’t a bad thing—it’s a guide. It’s my inner voice whispering, Hey, you want that. 

Instead of wishing someone else’s success away, I choose to see envy as a clue to my next chapter. It’s a signal that something in my life needs to change.

So, I asked myself: What do I want?

The answer was clear. I wanted photography to be a hobby again, a source of pure joy, not just income. I wanted to pick up my camera because I was inspired, not because I had an invoice.

Planting the Seeds for Change

With that clarity, I set a bold intention: I would photograph for the fun of it again. To make space for this, I challenged myself to stop taking on photography bookings altogether.

It wasn’t an easy decision. The temptation to stick with clients I loved and keep the cash flow coming was strong. But I knew that if I wanted to live the life I was dreaming of—traveling and photographing the world—it was up to me to create that reality.

The first step? Clearing my time.

I focused on building systems and value in my studio, ensuring it could sustain itself and our travels. It’s still a work in progress, but that intentional shift created the space I needed to focus on what I truly wanted.

The Power of Focus

As the saying goes, where focus goes, energy flows. Over the past year, I’ve experienced the truth of that firsthand. By directing my attention toward my dream and refusing to settle for less, I’ve built a whole new life.

What was once a daydream—traveling the world and taking photos for fun—has become my reality. It hasn’t been easy, but it has been worth every ounce of effort and leap of faith.

A Year of Rediscovery

Now, my camera is my companion in a way it hasn’t been in years. I photograph sunsets without a deadline, cities without a client brief, and landscapes purely because they take my breath away.

Here are some of my favourite photos from this past year—a collection of moments I captured just for the joy of it.

The Takeaway

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from this journey, it’s this: you’re allowed to change your mind. You’re allowed to dream a new dream, even if it means leaving behind something you once worked so hard to achieve.

Set the intention.

Make space for what you want.

And most importantly, believe in your ability to create the life you dream of. A year ago, my dream felt so far away.

Today, it’s the way I live.

Where will your focus take you?