Photo friends — HOW on earth are we already at the end of 2025? As this year winds down and we officially welcome December, I find myself feeling overwhelmingly grateful. The people I’ve met, the couples and families I’ve photographed, and the personal + professional growth I’ve experienced have shaped my heart and my business in the most meaningful ways. Without you, none of this would be possible. I truly mean that.

2025: My Year of Rebuilding

If I’m being honest, 2025 transformed me from the inside out. My husband and I moved to a new rural town outside of St. Charles, Missouri, and while it wasn’t far physically, it was far enough to feel the distance from friends, family, and familiar routines. I went through a deeply challenging (and rewarding) health journey and lost 120 pounds this year. I questioned myself in ways I’ve never had to before — in my photography, my relationships, and my career.

Imposter syndrome, comparison, and doubt were loud this year… but growth was louder.

Despite everything, God used this year to rebuild, refine, and re-align me with my sense of purpose. And through all of those ups and downs, so many beautiful moments unfolded — surprise proposals, the sweetest maternity sessions, breathtaking weddings, and countless family sessions that reminded me why photography is so powerful in the first place.

And because I stepped away from social media for a while, I never really got to share those moments with you. With the winter season approaching, I finally get the chance to share all the magic that was captured this year.

A New Season, A New Website ✨

I’m so excited to introduce the newest chapter of Hailey Lunsford Photography — a complete website refresh and a brand-new blog!

My site has never been more streamlined, user-friendly, or helpful. Whether you’re planning a wedding, booking family photos, looking for location ideas, photography tips, or inspiration for your proposal session — this is where you’ll find it.

Beginning in January, you can expect weekly blog posts on:

• Real weddings across St. Louis + Missouri
• Proposals, engagements, and love stories
• Location guides for photo sessions
• Tips for planning your photoshoot
• Behind-the-scenes from travel sessions (Ireland is coming soon!)
• Photography education + beginner tips

What You Can Expect in 2026

This next year feels different. It feels intentional. It feels aligned.

Here’s what’s new:

• A refreshed website and blog experience
• A simplified + elevated client workflow from inquiry to gallery delivery
• More consistency on social media (TikTok, Instagram, Facebook)
• More session highlights, tips, and behind-the-scenes content
• Updated pricing for 2026 (book now to lock in 2025 rates!)
• More travel sessions + destination weddings
• More mini sessions and seasonal offerings

What’s Coming Soon…

I can’t wait to share:

• A breathtaking proposal in St. Louis, MO
• Fall family session highlights in St. Charles & Troy, Missouri
• The most heartfelt maternity photos
• Beautiful weddings from across the Midwest
• Ireland photography portraits + styled shoots (yes… it was every bit as dreamy as you’re imagining)

So many moments that deserve their own spotlight — and they’re finally coming your way.

Thank You for Being Here

Whether you’ve supported me by booking a session, following along on social media, referring a friend, or simply cheering from afar — thank you.

2025 may have tested me, but it shaped me into a better photographer, business owner, and human. I’m closing this year with so much gratitude and stepping into 2026 with renewed purpose and excitement.

So, here’s to the memories from this past year and the new ones we get to create together in the next.

Thank you for being here. Truly.

And if you haven’t yet, make sure you follow along on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok — I can’t wait to show you what’s next.

Cheers to December and to a beautiful year ahead. 🤍