Ok so 2025 is just about over (and good riddance to it). It’s time to look ahead to 2026. The very few people that read this blog know that I have a 5 year plan for developing my photography skills enough to the point where I could conceivable open my own studio/creative space(or regularly rent one). So I want my 2026 goals to help develop that plan. My 2025 goals were really just a list of events and things I wanted to do, so 2026 needs to be more focused.

So… My 2026 goals:

• Practice solo at least once per month with a single light setup.
  • It would be amazing if this was studio time, or even an on location shoot. But that can get expensive so I’ll need to look at TFP work or other options.
• Replicate lighting setups I admire, then experiment with variations.
  • I’ve begun to start this process by reading books of other photographers work. So far I’ve realized I’m a big fan of Lindbergh and I really prefer black and white portraits with strong shadows.
• Start designing my own lighting setups for studio nights.
  • I think this will start with playing with lighting ratios, then expanding from there.
• Begin building a small personal lighting kit for home/portable use.
  • Nearly complete already. I have some Godox AD200’s, Cheetahstands, and softboxes. But I need something more light and portable for comic-con still.
  • I did get to test this out earlier this year when I did an engagement shoot for some friends.
• Get feedback from lighting mentors/peers once per quarter.
  • The studio I’m going to has a portfolio review next month. So that worked out well to start.
• Pick 2-3 repeating visual motifs (e.g., backlit haze, minimal composition, harsh shadows) and start weaving them into my work.
  • I’m hoping the books I mentioned in point #2 will help here.
• Begin creating BTS videos and posting them online.
  • My amazing wife got me a GoPro so I’m going to use that!