It's that time of year, where getting dinner on the table seems like a major accomplishment. Heck, even taking a shower and putting on clothes that aren't leggings is a huge accomplishment! This is coming at the very end of the busy-season, but blogging during the busy September, October and early November months is almost non-existent. When the work piles up, there are photoshoots every night, and it's easy to push other things aside, like family time. It's moments like this when I've found I have to put super intentional with scheduling time off, and putting the work away for the evenings.
1- Learn to say No. I know, I talk about this all of the time, but it is so difficult to turn down work, especially knowing that the next few months are going to be way slower. But saying yes to everything means you're having to say no to the things that really matter.
2- Take the time to Schedule your week. At the beginning of every week, I look through my shoots and schedule the time for the office work that is required. I try to have at least one day where I don't schedule any appointments out of the home and I know that I'll be able to answer emails, and get my editing done.
3- Schedule time off. If you look at my (color coordinated!!) calendar, you'll see where I have dates that I schedule off ahead of time. I know that these are the days I can spend some time at school with Emerson, I can do brunch with some friends, and really, just take some time for myself to re-coup and re-energize.
Trust me, I totally understand how difficult it is to turn down paying clients. But, I've learned from the past, I've learned from being burnt-out and sacrificing important family time that it really isn't worth it.
Ashley Eiban is a wedding and portrait photographer based in Central Virginia. Serving Lynchburg, Charlottesville, Farmville, Richmond, Roanoke, and surrounding areas. Currently booking a limited number of weddings and portrait sessions for 2017. Available for travel world-wide.
Ashley is passionate about capturing moments as they authentically happen to ensure a successful session that gives you time to enjoy each other and savor the wedding day moments. Contact me today for additional
