When they say for Oscars that it is an Honor just to be nominated- that is how I am feeling this past week.  I mean, seriously to be in the running for the best Photographer in Southern Utah for the year 2021 sounds pretty dreamy.  As I have pondered this week how exciting it would feel to actually win, and carry that title, I have had a lot of thoughts about what being the best really means.  So here is a list of some of my thoughts, in no particular order.  

• Being nominated with other very talented photographers is such a treat, but even if I win, that isn't saying that I am the very best, but I do feel it says that I always give my best.  EVERY session that I have a chance to create I always want it to be my very best work.  In fact, I try to outdo myself from the previous session. 
• Adam (My Hubbie of almost 20 years in June) laughs at me before each session, because I always say I'm really nervous about this session I have tonight, and the chuckle comes out and he says that how he knows I'm going to do a good job.  So far it is working because in the past 20 years as a photographer I still hope to be creating my best work.  
• Being the best would be fabulous, but only as a reflection of how I would want my clients to feel about themselves.  I am only the best if every time they look at their portraits on their wall, or their album, they see themselves at their best.  I know this is why I love my job so much, because when I am sitting after a session and completing an order, I laugh at a darling two year old's expressions, I cry with proudness at a confident Senior, and I am overcome with joy when a family of 50 celebrates their prosperity together.

Over the next seven days you can vote to make Cook Photography labeled the "Best of Southern Utah." Thank you all to your votes so far, and for continuing to vote.  Thank you even more for allowing me to laugh, cry, and burst with joy at being apart of your families.  I feel in my heart everyone who has been in front of my camera has definitely been apart of mine! I don't know if anyone else has a hard time asking for help, but needing something and asking for it is very uncomfortable for me, so please know when I am asking for your vote, I genuinely want it so that Cook Photography has a way to promote that the very best is what is always going to given to each and everyone of you! Lets bring in the Votes this last week!  

-Heather