One last blog post from this year, inspired by this year’s Tomte Post, a tad bleached by the Hawaiian sun.

Gear once stood as a big factor between a pro and an amateur. That fine line has faded big time in 2013.

10% Inspiration + 90% perspiration + a hefty dose of technique trump all. And then sharing that knowledge, inspiration, and enthusiasm help the world go around.

Being different remains an uphill hike I’m proud to endure, I’m all about paying it forward. And this year, here were the most popular blog posts for those planning a wedding and wedding photographers alike.

Year in Review (Looking Ahead)
Once again, the four pillars of what I believe make a successful wedding photographer today ring true another year: education, experience, networking, and tools. None of which come cheap.

As much as love creating, I love to share. I look at it as a way to give back and help make the wedding industry a better place.

I give you the top 12 blog posts from 2012, which I hope inspires, encourages, and motivates you as you plan for 2015.

Grab your notebook (quick read time: 5 minutes, complete digestion 30 minutes):

1. For Clients: How To Choose a Wedding Photographer (And Fall in Love The RIGHT Way)

2. See the Power Behind the Leaf Shutter Lens

3. On Shooting Digital Medium Format in Wedding Photography

4. Gain insight into the Advantages of Medium Format vs DSLR as it pertains to creativity, workflow, and marketing.

5. Take a glimpse behind the scenes of The Impossible Dream, a collaborative test shoot done with friends.

6. The Importance of A Spiffy Album Design Workflow, batteries not needed (and the key people needed to make it happen).

7. One Unique Wedding Favor Idea. (It’s Free)

8. Investing in Your Community and Sharing Photo Knowledge with Competition (Even When Gear Breaks Down).

9. Tips to Photographers from Wedding Vendors to Better Serve Our Clients

10. The Importance of A Sabbatical and Time Off

11. Bad Weather on Wedding Day: Advice for Brides and Photographers

12. Destination Inspiration: Chasing Sheep, Goats, and Light in Norway. (in Pursuit of Personal Work)

Happy Holidays and wishing you the best in a bright New Year! See you in 2014!