Photographs by Emily — Fort Gratiot, Michigan
As 2026 comes to a close, I wanted to share a few updates about what's happening behind the scenes at Photographs by Emily and what you can expect when booking your portrait sessions in 2027.
It's hard to believe that this coming May, I'll be celebrating 18 years in business!
What started as a little photography dream has grown into something I never could have imagined. Over the years, I've had the privilege of photographing engagements, weddings, growing families, newborns, first birthdays, graduating seniors, and countless special milestones. One of my greatest joys is watching my client families grow and being invited back to document each new chapter.
To everyone who has supported this dream, thank you!
A Little Life Update
I'm not going to pretend that 2026 has been easy. It's been one of my most challenging years since 2020, and it's required me to make some adjustments both personally and professionally.
Before photography became my full-time career, I spent years working in accounting. This spring, an opportunity presented itself to join Blue Water Audio/Video as a part-time accountant. It's been wonderful getting back to my accounting roots while continuing to run my photography business! However, balancing both careers means I need to be more intentional about my studio schedule moving forward.
The important thing to know is that Photographs by Emily isn't going anywhere!
I'm simply adjusting how I schedule sessions so I can continue providing the personalized photography experience my clients deserve.
What's Changing for 2027?
Quarterly Booking Calendar
Beginning in 2027, my portrait session calendar will open one quarter at a time rather than booking the entire year in advance. This will allow me to manage my availability more effectively while balancing my accounting position and photography schedule. Booking announcements will be shared through my website, social media, and email newsletter. Because session availability will be more limited, I encourage families to plan ahead, especially for newborn, milestone, and senior portraits.
Updated Studio Schedule
My photography schedule will follow two seasonal calendars:
November through May
- Studio closed Sundays and Mondays
- Portrait sessions available by appointment during remaining studio days
June through October — Peak Season
- Portrait sessions primarily Thursday through Saturday
- Every other Sunday available for sessions
- All sessions by appointment only
Availability may vary based on previously scheduled sessions, weddings, and other commitments.
Seasonal Photography Sessions
Seasonal sessions aren't going away!
- I'll continue offering special photography opportunities throughout the year, including holiday sessions and other seasonal portrait events.
- These sessions will be announced as dates and details become available.
- Newsletter subscribers will be among the first to hear about upcoming opportunities!
Weddings in 2027 and Beyond
I absolutely love photographing weddings, and that isn't changing!
However, I'll continue accepting a limited number of weddings each year so I can give each couple the time, creativity, and personalized attention their wedding day deserves.
If you're planning a wedding in 2027 or 2028, I encourage you to reach out early to inquire about availability.
Portrait Photography & the Studio Experience
My Fort Gratiot photography studio will continue offering personalized photography experiences for newborns, families, maternity, milestones, graduating seniors, and more.
As I look ahead to 2027, I'm continuing to focus on creating beautiful, meaningful photographs that deserve to be enjoyed beyond a computer or phone screen. From the initial consultation through selecting your favorite portraits and artwork, my goal is to make the entire experience comfortable, enjoyable, and memorable. I'll be sharing more about our studio experience and portrait offerings in the coming weeks leading up to the new year!
Continuing My Volume photography Education: Cheer, Dance & Gymnastics Photography
One of the things I'm most excited about this November is traveling Harrisburg, PA to attend an intensive 3-day photography workshop focused specifically on cheer, dance, and gymnastics photography!
I'll be learning from some of the top leaders in the volume photography industry, exploring new techniques, workflows, and creative approaches.
Even after nearly 18 years behind the camera, I firmly believe there's always room to grow and learn.
I'm especially excited to bring this knowledge back to our local community cheer programs, dance studios, gymnastics organizations, and athletes.
Stay tuned because I can't wait to share what I learn!
Important: Our Newsletter Is Moving!
Along with these changes, Photographs by Emily is transitioning to a new email newsletter platform.
Unfortunately, my current subscriber list cannot be transferred directly, so anyone wishing to continue receiving updates will need to sign up again.
Why join the email family?
You'll receive:
- Announcements when new quarterly booking dates become available
- Early news about seasonal sessions
- Studio updates and special opportunities
- New offerings and exciting announcements
SIGN UP FOR STUDIO EMAIL UPDATES
I'd love to stay connected!
Looking Ahead to Year 18!
Photography has never been just about taking pictures for me.
It's about the relationships, the memories, and the moments that become more meaningful as time passes.
While some things may look a little different in 2027, my commitment to creating beautiful images and providing a wonderful experience for my clients remains the same.
Thank you for continuing to support Photographs by Emily, for sharing my name with your friends and family, and for trusting me to document some of life's most important moments.
Here's to new opportunities, continued growth, and another year of making memories together!
With love,
Emily
Photographs by Emily
Fort Gratiot, Michigan
