Flashback Friday: A Downtown Shoot with Sarah

Sometimes, you just need to get out and create. Last October, after stepping away from photography for a while, I felt the itch to pick up my camera again. I wasn’t looking for perfection—just a chance to shake off the rust, get back into my groove, and see where the creative energy would take me.

Sarah was the perfect person to help me with that. She’s one of those people who just gets it—effortlessly moving in front of the camera, trusting the process, and bringing an energy that makes shooting feel fun and easy. We wandered downtown, embracing the urban textures, moody alleys, and warm autumn light. It was exactly the kind of low-pressure, creative reset I needed.

But of course, every shoot has its hiccups. One of my lenses and I were not vibing that day. I struggled to get the shots I wanted, felt frustrated with how it handled the light, and ultimately realized that it might be time to part ways with it for good. It’s funny how certain gear can feel like a trusted friend, while others never quite click.

Even with the lens issues, the shoot itself was a success. Looking back at the images now, I see the warmth, the movement, and the energy that Sarah brought, and I’m so grateful for the experience. And yes, I’m very late in sharing these (sorry, girl!), but better late than never, right?

This session reminded me that creativity doesn’t have to be perfect to be worthwhile. Sometimes, it’s just about showing up, experimenting, and letting the process unfold.

So, here’s to shaking off the rust, embracing the imperfections, and finding joy in the process. Have you ever taken a break from something creative and struggled to get back into it? Let’s talk about it in the comments!