the blog

I’ve had this idea on my mind for a while now…I’m not sure what’s taken me so long to finally make the decision official….but here it is.

For much of my life, I’ve been involved in a variety of different non-profit organizations trying to give back to the community. Even through college (one of the busiest times in my life) I was a part of an amazing sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha, that worked to raise money for breast cancer awareness and research. Since graduating, though, I’ve been working hard to establish myself, my career, and this business.  I keep saying when things settle down, I’ll find a way to start giving back again….but I’m quickly realizing that life may never settle down.  This business will always be a work in progress if I want it to be successful, and our lives are always changing with something new around the corner every time I think we’re getting settled in. Part of me feels so selfish for only thinking about how I can better myself lately, I get down on myself over unpaid debts and not being exactly where I expected to be by now in my career…but the fact is, I’m extremely fortunate for everything I have and while I’m sure I’ll always strive for more, that’s no excuse not to give back in some way.

I think no matter where we all are in our lives, we can find a way to give back. Find a cause you’re passionate about and figure out a way to contribute to it, whether it be with monetary contributions or volunteering your time. So I’ve decided that for the year of 2014, I will be donating 5% of my net profits to breast cancer awareness and research. Breast cancer takes too many sisters, wives, mothers, and daughters….many times because it’s gone undetected. This is my way of helping to change that (in addition to badgering any female I know who is of the recommended age to be getting mammograms.)

I’ll also be looking for ways to help those who have been affected by breast cancer. It’s a simple thing, but what I love about photography is the ability for a simple photograph to restore one’s confidence…to help them see the beauty in themselves that everyone around them sees.  If you know a woman that you would like to nominate for a photo session, please send me an email at stephanie@stephanie-michelle.com.