It’s hard to believe that 2020 is coming to a close. In some ways, it feels like this year has gone on forever and in others, I feel like it was just yesterday I returned home from the Clickaway Conference right before lockdown started. So much has happened this year, despite it all, and I hope you each know how grateful I am to you for making 2020 a success. I thought it might be fun to share my year in review with you. It’s a chance to highlight some of the moments that made this such a special year and celebrate the amazing things that happened. I’m excited to take a moment to pause and really reflect on this year with you!

This Spring

In March, I attended the Clickaway Conference in Atlanta during the first week of the month. It was SO much fun! I had the opportunity to finally meet so many of my photographer friends IN PERSON. And, of course, a chance to make new friends and connect with the top notch of the photo industry! It was SO inspiring! Plus, while I was there, I was able to visit one of my best friends from high school, which was super emotional! Although, at the time, I wasn’t sure if I should go, I went. And thank goodness I did! Within a week of returning, we went into lockdown as COVID-19 raged the nation.

The next month, I had the opportunity to raise funds for the Brigham and Women’s Hospital by participating in the Front Steps Project. What an experience! It felt so wonderful to DO something that was helping the medical staff in Boston. And it made me smile to connect with so many families who also wanted to help too! But, the best part was that this was a movement that swept through the nation. A huge shout out to Kristen Collins and Cara Soulia Photography for the idea!

This Summer

In May, we had two graduations to plan for. Our oldest son graduated from college and our middle son graded from high school. In the same week! Phew, talk about a lot going on! We had been planning their parties when suddenly, POOF. No more parties were able to be held. Instead, I photographed them both in their cap and gowns. And yes, lots of proud tears were shed.

In July, I officially became a member of the Click Pro community! This was a huge achievement for me and my business, one I’m still very proud of. Later in the summer, we decided to travel to New Hampshire (safely). We spent some time together as a family in nature, climbing Mount Washington. It was a well-deserved vacation all around and we LOVED every minute.

This Fall

This fall was truly a beautiful, crazy season. Because of the virus, I was anticipating the fall would be much slower. But, SO many families still trusted me to capture their fall memories. I had the chance to catch up and reconnect with so many families I adore and meet lots of new ones, too!

A BONUS: The weather this fall was AMAZING!!! I won’t complain, especially after the year being what it was. It was truly one of the most beautiful falls I’ve ever experienced since moving here!

The End of the Year…

After another busy and fulfilling year, I’m looking forward to some well-earned time off. I can’t wait to go for a walk on the chilly beach and play in the snow as it falls. It’s such a beautiful time of year and I can’t wait to experience it with my favorite people.

Thank you to each and every one of you for making 2020 such a success. I’m eternally grateful and wish you health + happiness in 2021! And PS, thanks for indulging me with this year in review. It’s made me smile – and I hope as you think back on 2020, you find some little moments of happiness and light for your own families.

about helena goessens photography

Helena Goessens is a maternity, newborn, and family photographer based in Dedham, MA. She loves to work with families and little ones in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. She lives for creativity and she loves to capture the genuine connections between family members and for her kid-friendly photography style. Helena Goessens offers sessions in the comfort of client’s homes, outdoors, and on location for those special occasions.  If you are looking for a family portrait photographer for your next family session, be sure to browse through her family portfolio and inquire for availability. Contact her at  info@helenagoessens.com    or call her at    617-584-9891.  For more of her work, visit her website at  helenagoessens.com.