top of page

A Birthday Reflection: 31 Years of Life, 15 Years of Photography, and My Gift to You

Writer: Delaney StevensonDelaney Stevenson

Today, I celebrate 31 years of life and 15 years behind the camera. When I look in the mirror, I see laugh lines from joyful moments (and a few "WTF" lines from life's curveballs), along with grey hairs I choose to embrace as highlights of experience. More than just marking another year, I’m celebrating the journey—one that led me exactly where God intended.



The Dream That Started 15 Years Ago

At 16, when my mom asked what I wanted to do, I knew two things for certain: I wanted to be a stay-at-home mom, and I wanted to be a portrait photographer. Even then, I believed I could build a career that allowed me to do both. After my first Photography 101 class, I started studying photography at my community college while finishing high school, took my first job at a mall portrait studio, and later earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Photography from Chico State.



The Road That Led Me Here

The journey wasn’t exactly as I imagined, but somehow I still arrived. Along the way, I faced obstacles I could have never anticipated—including battling depression and anxiety. There were many days when I couldn’t imagine making it to my 30s, when the weight of it all made the future feel impossible. But I am here—not just surviving, but thriving.


Through the dark days, photography became more than a career—it was a light. It gave me purpose, a way to capture beauty when I struggled to see it in my own life. It became a way to connect, to serve, and to remind myself and others that even in the hardest moments, there is still so much worth holding onto.


By the grace of God, today I am living the dream that blossomed so many years ago. I have a beautiful homestead in Texas, a wonderful husband, and three amazing children I’ve been blessed to raise while growing my photography business. Now, as I begin homeschooling my own kids, I’m reminded of the dreams I set 15 years ago and the privilege I have of living them every day.




Elevating the Experience: Why I Became a Full-Service Photographer

Last year, after over a decade of professional photography, I took a moment to reflect on my journey and the privilege of serving so many clients. I decided to evolve my business to better honor the trust you place in me with your memories. After working with hundreds of clients and capturing nearly every type of session imaginable, I took time to revisit my goals as your photographer. This led me to introduce a full-service, concierge portrait photography experience—because I believe your portrait session should be about so much more than just a few digital files.


A great portrait experience goes beyond simply pressing the shutter; it’s about truly getting to know you so I can tell your story, help you see the beauty in yourself and your everyday life, and showcase those moments in a way that makes you feel seen and valued. From the initial planning stages to the final artwork displayed on your walls, every detail is thoughtfully designed to highlight your unique story, creating timeless pieces that will serve as cherished reminders for years to come. Because your memories deserve to be more than just digital files stored on a device—they deserve to be displayed and celebrated as art that lifts you up every single day.



A Birthday Thank You & My Gift to You

This milestone isn’t just mine—it belongs to every client who has trusted me to document their most precious memories. Over the past 15 years, I have completed over a thousand sessions, working with hundreds of individuals and families who have allowed me to capture the moments that matter most. Each session is a privilege, and I am endlessly grateful for the trust my clients place in me.


To celebrate 15 years of photography and to show my appreciation to each of you who made it possible, I’m offering 15% off your sitting fee*! This special offer is available until March 15th, so don’t miss out! Whether you're ready to capture a milestone moment or want to create beautiful artwork for your home, now is the perfect time to book.


Before I sign off, I have a few more incredibly important thank you's for those who mean the most to me: To my parents and grandparents—thank you not only for bringing me into this world but for always encouraging me to pursue my dreams. When I said I wanted to be an artist, you didn’t question it. Instead, you guided my steps, encouraged my creativity, and gave me the foundation to build the life and career I have today.


To my husband Robbie—thank you for encouraging me when no one else saw my vision, for pushing me forward when doubt crept in, and for always being my steady support. I wouldn’t be here without you.


And to my beautiful children—you are my greatest purpose. Every moment I capture and every memory I preserve is a reflection of the love and life we share. I hope I make you proud.


Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to another 15 years of creating photos that matter.


Ready to celebrate your milestones with a photo session? Click below to get started!



*This birthday special is good for 15% off your sitting fee, and is available through March 15, 2025. Can not be used on previously booked sessions.



 
 
 

Comments


Back to top

© 2010-2025 Photography by Delaney LLC

bottom of page