Retreat 2012 {Morgan Judge}

Back in April, I went on a trip to Washington that literally changed my life and the way that I see the photo business. Kristin and Katie were God-given friends, and if it were not for their obedience, this retreat never would have been planned. For them, I am so thankful. They created a website, a Facebook page, and had a network of people all over the Washington/Oregon area. They were planning on about 15 girls who wanted to pursue their passions with photography, but also believed that this gift that they had was from God. We were Christian photographers looking for a place to improve, and grow closer with other girls who had the same passions and also, our creator.

Here begins the miracle that occurred in my life: My mom was on Facebook and through a couple magical clicks of the mouse, found this retreat. She prayed about it and showed my dad what it was. She had also talked to Kristin, and said that she had no red flags. My dad told my mom, “You’re going to send our daughter across the country, flying on her own, to two women that you have never met for 4 days?” My mother replied with a very confident, “yes.”

Flying into Seattle was one of the most exciting flights of my life. When my parents surprised me on Easter that I would be going, I immediately dove into research and photos of this beautiful city that I would be traveling to. I immediately fell in love with it. I was counting down for days, and telling anyone that would listen about my trip.

So, I flew into the fabulous SEATAC airport and my dreams were all coming true. I was looking for Emily, Kenzie, and Lauren because we had a flight together to Wenatchee, and when I found them I did this funny run/scuttle situation (that we will never forget) because I was so full of joy and love for these girls that I had never met before. I knew that they were in my life for a reason, and I was just so PUMPED to meet them!!

Now, I can’t write a paragraph about every little amazing thing that we did over the course of 4 days, because there was A LOT. But, I can write a list (i love lists) about the things that I learned and how it impacted me. Plus, lists are way more fun to read anyways.

1. God gave me photography as a gift and I need to use it to glorify him.

2. There are so many people in the world that I have the same things in common with and I can learn from all of them.

3. How to run a business. Have a logo, pricing, blogging.

4. I learned about gear, lenses, manual, and wedding photography.

5. There is a God who loves me and wants to use me according to his purpose.

This retreat that I went on included, making AMAZING friends, learning great things about photography and the God that I serve. I will forever remember this as being the turning point in my photography business. It was encouragement, that yes.. I could do it.

Kristin and Katie, I will always thank God for your willingness to teach us, and your obedience to God and his call.