It’s been a tough couple of weeks for me. Like many of you, I’ve been navigating a world of setbacks that seem determined to keep me from making progress, but in the midst of it all, I’ve learned something that’s not just important for my business but for life in general: setbacks are not the end. They’re opportunities for growth and realignment.

Let me tell you about the most recent setback.

The Hard Drive Crash: A Wake-Up Call

Just last week, my hard drive crashed. Now, I know I should have had backups, and I’ve promised myself a thousand times that I would keep my data safe. But, for whatever reason, I didn’t. And when that hard drive failed, I lost every single photo I’ve taken for the last five years.

Yes, you read that right: five years’ worth of work. Every session. Every family portrait. Every wedding. Even the photos I took last week at the beach with my own family — photos I had been planning to print and keep forever — gone.

At first, I thought maybe it was some sort of glitch. Maybe I could recover them. But as the hours turned into days, I realized that what I had taken for granted — my memories, my craft, my business — was gone. And the worst part? The panic of knowing I had no backup plan in place.

It’s hard to even describe the feeling of loss. A little piece of me felt like it was erased along with those files.

The Ongoing Struggles: Business & Personal Setbacks

You see, this isn’t the first setback I’ve faced. It’s part of the journey of trying to grow a business, especially when you’re trying to build it from the ground up. There are always hurdles, whether they come in the form of financial struggles, competition, or just sheer exhaustion. But this? This felt like a punch in the gut.

And if I’m being honest, it often feels like every time I try to grow my business, life throws another obstacle my way. And as frustrating as that is, I’ve realized something: the setbacks don’t stop. If I wait for the perfect conditions, I’ll be waiting forever. So, I’ve decided to press on.

Not just for me, but for my clients. For the people who depend on me to capture moments. For the families that trust me to freeze time and create memories. I can’t let a crash, a hack, or any other setback keep me from doing what I love. I can’t let it keep me from helping YOU create memories that will last a lifetime.

Socials & Hacking: Rebuilding from Scratch

And if that wasn’t enough, recently my social media accounts were hacked. I lost access to everything — my photos, my posts, the connections I’d worked so hard to build. It was another devastating blow, but one thing I’ve learned over the years is that no matter how much we plan, sometimes life just doesn’t go our way.

Instead of letting it keep me down, I’ve been working tirelessly to rebuild. From scratch. And while it’s been frustrating, it’s also reminded me of something important: we are all capable of resilience.

As I work to get my socials back to where they were (and even better), I had an idea. I could sit here waiting for everything to be perfect again, or I could do what I do best: make art, connect with my community, and serve the people who matter the most — YOU.

The $50 Photo Sessions: The Catch

I know what you’re thinking. You might even be wondering, “Why would she offer photo sessions for just $50?”

Here’s the thing: I get asked for affordable sessions all the time. And normally, I’d hesitate to offer such a low price because, as an artist, I understand that charging less can sometimes devalue the work. My art — your memories — are worth so much more than that.

But here’s what I’ve realized through this journey: when you offer something on your terms, you’re not just giving a discount — you’re offering an opportunity.

You’re paying your clients for something even more valuable than a photo: you’re paying them for the privilege of advertising your work. You’re letting them share what you’ve created with the world. You’re showing them that despite the setbacks, you’re still here. And more importantly, you’re still creating.

So while this might feel like a risk, it’s one I’m willing to take. I’m offering these $50 sessions because I believe in the power of community.

I believe in you. I believe in the power of showing up — even when it’s hard. Even when it feels like the universe is working against you. So, let’s do this together. Let’s make beautiful memories while I work to get my business back on track.

Why You Should Book Now

Now, before you think that this offer is just a random giveaway, let me tell you: this is a one-time offer. It’s a special deal, and once Memorial Day (May 26th) passes, it’s gone. Why? Because while I’m offering affordable sessions, I’m also offering something even more valuable: the chance to be part of this moment.

Even if you already have a session booked with me, this offer can be a way to get more photos, more outfits, and more time with me behind the camera — for literally 93% off. That’s an incredible deal, especially considering how hard I’ve worked to make my art something meaningful and memorable.

But this isn’t about just the discount. It’s about the experience. The opportunity to create something meaningful and lasting, even when things aren’t perfect.

You don’t have to wait for the “perfect” moment to capture your memories. Let’s do it now. Let’s make some magic together, even in the middle of life’s chaos.

Book Now

So if you’ve been waiting for a sign to book that photo session, this is it. Book now before the offer disappears.

DM me to schedule your $50 session. Limited spots are available, so first come, first served. You deserve beautiful, affordable photos — and I’m here to give them to you. Let’s create something that lasts.

With Gratitude and Joy,

Chantel Marie
Chantel Maire Photography