Full Circle: How One Photograph Led Me to the Front Cover of Chasing Light Magazine

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"Every photograph tells a story- but for me, one photograh changed everything."

Photography has always held a deeper meaning for me. Growing up, I only knew my mother through a photograph — a single image that became my connection to her.

(You can read more about that story and see the photograph that started it all here.)

That picture taught me how powerful a single captured moment can be — how it can hold emotion, tell a story, and preserve love long after time has moved on.

So when I became a finalist for Chasing Light Magazine, and later learned I had won the front cover, it felt like everything had come full circle - I had officially become a Chasing Light Magazine cover photographer, something I'd only dreamed of. The girl who once clung to a photograph as a memory was now creating images that others would hold onto the same way.

The Path to Becoming a Finalist

My passion for photography began with that one image of my mother. It taught me to see the world differently — to look for connection, emotion, and truth in every frame. Over time, I started capturing families, children, and couples, always chasing those fleeting moments that speak louder than words.

When I decided to enter the Chasing Light Magazine competition, I wasn’t thinking about winning. I entered because the photograph I submitted meant something to me — a tender moment between a mother and her daughter, full of love and stillness. It reminded me of everything I lost, and everything I’ve since found through the lens.

The submission process was both exciting and nerve-wracking. I doubted myself a hundred times. But photography has always been my way of honoring love and memory — so I pressed submit, hoping that emotion would shine through.

Winning the Cover: A Dream Come True

When I received the message that my image had been chosen for the front cover, I cried. It didn’t feel real. That same photo — of a mother kissing her daughter — captured exactly why I fell in love with photography in the first place: the beauty of connection, the power of love, and the quiet strength in motherhood.

I was flooded with messages from friends, family, and fellow photographers. Every message of encouragement reminded me this wasn’t just my win — it celebrated every story behind the photos I’ve taken. Every client who’s trusted me to capture their love. Every moment that mattered.

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Jasmine Nicole & daughter Kenely

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“I fell in love with photography because a single picture once gave me my mother’s love — now, I create so others can feel the same connection I once searched for.”

-Samantha Balzan

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The Impact of Becoming a Chasing Light Magazine Cover Photographer

This experience has changed how I see myself as an artist. For years, I’ve poured my heart into photography, often balancing motherhood, life’s chaos, and my own insecurities about whether I was “enough.”

Winning the cover offered more than recognition — it reaffirmed that the way I see love, light, and connection has meaning. It reminded me that photography isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence.

And with that realization came confidence — to keep creating, keep telling stories, and keep honoring the people and moments that deserve to be remembered.

Behind the Scenes: Getting Published

Having the support of family and friends and my community voting for me was such a heartfelt moment and I appreciate all those who participated to help me become a Chasing Light Magazine cover photographer. Seeing my work move from digital to print felt surreal. Every email, edit, and proofing step made it sink in a little more: this is really happening.

When I held the magazine in my hands for the first time, I thought of that photo of my mother — how something as simple as an image can leave an imprint for a lifetime. I felt deeply proud knowing my work might become that connection for someone else.

Lessons Learned from the Experience

This journey has taught me to believe in myself — even when doubt feels louder than hope. It’s also reminded me of the importance of community. The outpouring of love and support from people around me made this achievement even more special.

Photography is more than a career or a creative outlet. It’s healing. It’s connection. It’s storytelling through light and love.

Future Aspirations

Winning the front cover has only deepened my passion to grow, explore, and keep capturing the beauty in everyday moments. I want to tell more stories — honest, emotional, real stories that remind people of what matters most.

My dream now is to inspire others who might doubt their path — the ones who create from their hearts and hope someone sees it. Because someone will.

Conclusion

Being on the front cover of Chasing Light Magazine is so much more than a professional milestone — it’s a deeply personal one. It’s proof that art born from love, loss, and authenticity can touch others in ways we may never fully know.

To anyone reading this who’s chasing a dream, no matter how far away it feels — don’t stop. The world needs your story, your heart, your light.

Because one image, one moment, can change everything - just like it did for me.

And if you’ve ever had a photograph mean the world to you, like I did growing up, then you already understand: one image can change everything. 💛