MEGAN
VAN
Photo
THE JOURNAL
a collection of my favorite moments and sentimental feelings from my photography journey! From cozy creatives to projects I've experienced.
SONGS THAT SPEAK TO MY SOUL
3/7/26
If my life was a soundtrack, this would be mine. These songs feel like "me".
You + Me= Lifehouse
Collide= Howie Day
Staying= Lizzy McAlpine
Yellow= Coldplay
The Scientist= Coldplay
I Lived= OneRepublic
Robbers= The 1975
Those Eyes= New West
Evergreen= Richy Mich & The Coal Miners
Stubborn Love= The Lumineers
Stacks= Bon Iver
Every Breath You Take= The Police
Kiss Me= Sixpence None The Richer
She Will Be Loved= Maroon 5
Sun Bleached Flies= Ethel Cain
Heaven= Bryan Adams
Shiver= Hazlett
10 GOALS AND ASPIRATIONS FOR 2026 AS A BRAND PHOTOGRAPHER
1/17/26
As 2026 begins I can’t help to think of new ways to improve myself as a photographer and designer. Last year I was grateful for so many opportunities and growth which I hope to continue to have in this new year. I love what I do and this post is for you whenever you need it…take some inspiration and if you are a creator yourself let this be a reminder you can come back to. 1: Not comparing my work to others…(this one is definitely a challenge) but I’ve learned that each photographer as their own style and what’s fun about being an artist is there are so many ideas out there so finding your own approach gives you individuality. 2: Having new clients that appreciate my work and give feedback. 3: Exploring new types of photography. ( I would love to get into portrait photography a bit more and using my knowledge to create web designs for brands). 4: Going outside of my comfort zone. Back in 2025, I started to do this and this year I hope to push myself even further. 5: Getting new props and equipment that can enhance my work. Yes, the production of good photos isn’t always from the equipment…its mostly the knowledge/skill and the eye of the creative, yet buying a few new pieces can open new possibilities. For one, as a do product+branding work I would like explore new backdrops and aesthetic pieces to work with in my photos of products.
THE SIMPLE JOYS OF WINTER
12/4/25
As the winter season is approaching I can’t help to be excited for the simple joys and cozy reminders of what this time of the year brings. It is the time of reflection, working on yourself and embracing the quiet around you. Seeing the snow fall outside a window while a Christmas candle burns, baking cookies, putting on a comfort movie, or even just sitting in silence with a cup of hot cocoa is what brings me joy. Even if some days may feel heavy it is important lean onto what makes you feel whole, rooted, and safe. This is the time to hygge and live in the moment before it all melts away.
IT'S THE LITTLE THINGS
9/5/25
As cliche as it may sound I am so fond of the little things in life. I crave to see the details in something or someone. Often, I find myself contemplating what it means to have such attention to even the smallest parts of my life. This could either be hearing a bird sing outside your window that makes your morning a little brighter or smiling to a stranger on your way to work. Even if something comes up that you may deem negative it’s those moments that matter as well. I appreciate the little things: a compliment, a text about how proud someone is of you, the presence of someone you care for. My life is constantly testing me and as annoying as that may be it’s creating a path for me to notice the unnoticed. I have to say being a photographer adds to that excitement. From taking photos of nature to where you can’t even see the full details of your subject until you view it on a larger screen to getting a bird flying across your sky picture with its prey in its mouth. Those are the little unnoticed details that life throws at you. My favorite kind of “art of noticing is” taking photographs of hot coffee with steam rising off the surface or sun rays poking through a film photo. It adds an extra layer of being in the moment of just you and the subject. Many people may says its ridiculous to be excited about these types of things yet there is something so special about just being in the moment and taking it all in. The little things as I repeat over and over are what make me happy. A handwritten note with their unique penmanship, a “I thought of you when I saw this” text, a song lyric that they represent you with. With all the chaos your little life may present you with looking for, the little things is a scavenger hunt in itself. So here is a reminder for you and myself: pay attention to the little things because you never know what you may be missing if you happen to be looking the other way. Let these moments be with you and soften you. I encourage you ‘carry’ them in your pocket for when you need to take a step back and just live in the moment.
