Week 1 of My 52-Week Challenge
Welcome to week one of my 52-week photography challenge, one photoshoot every single week in 2026. And let me tell you, I’m starting with something absolutely wild.
As a Nashville photographer always chasing creative photography ideas, I had this vision: What if I could create a shallow reflection pool right in my garage studio? I’d seen a loose behind-the-scenes glimpse of someone doing something similar on Instagram, but they never shared the final images. So this was purely experimental. Could we actually pull this off?
Spoiler: Yes. And it was incredible.
The Concept: A DIY Reflection Pool
The plan was surprisingly simple in theory:
- Build a shallow pool frame using four 2×4 boards nailed together in a square
- Line it with a black tarp
- Fill it with water from the hose
- Set up a backdrop and lights around it like a normal studio
- Create moody, dramatic reflection portraits
When the shoot was done, we’d unscrew one board, let the water drain into the driveway, and call it a day.
Would it actually work? I had no idea. But my friend, Leiny, is always game for crazy ideas, and her commitment to creative concepts is absolutely unmatched. If I say “this is absolutely insane,” she’s the first person to say “let’s do it.”
Building the Pool (Easier Than You’d Think)
I volunteered to build the pool myself, but my husband lovingly reminded me that power tools and I don’t always get along. So he took over, and honestly? The entire build took maybe five minutes. The longest part was the drive to Home Depot to grab the 2x4s.
I was convinced something would go wrong. A leak, the tarp failing, water everywhere. But this portion worked perfectly. The pool held water beautifully, and we had plenty of room for the backdrop and lighting setup. If I had to complain about one thing, it would be that the garage is sloped ever so slightly, which meant we could only fill the pool so high on one side before water started overflowing on the other. Unfortunately, the shallow side was the side in the photos.
Pro tip if you try this: Position your backdrop and the pool frame before you fill it with water. Once there’s water in it, you’re not moving anything.
The Vision vs. Reality
Lainy had a darker, moodier vision for this shoot: dramatic lighting, striking contrast, almost cinematic. I went back and forth between a black backdrop and a blue one, ultimately choosing blue so we’d have the option for color images while still being able to convert some to black and white later.
Here’s where I’m being honest: I spent so much time and energy figuring out if the pool concept would work that I didn’t give nearly enough thought to the lighting. When Leiny arrived and we started shooting, I was still figuring out my light placement on the fly.
And that’s where this shoot has room to grow.
The images are good. Leiny loves them, and there are shots I’m genuinely proud of. But I know they could be so much better with more intentional lighting choices. This is only week one of my challenge, and I’m already identifying skill gaps I’m excited to work on.
The Details That Made It Work
Despite my lighting learning curve, there were elements of this shoot that absolutely killed:
The Wings: Laney originally planned to make DIY wings herself, but when that didn’t work out, she drove two hours to Kentucky the morning of the shoot to pick up these stunning black wings from Facebook Marketplace. Her commitment? Unreal. And those wings were absolutely perfect. They elevated the entire concept.
The Frames: I brought in ornate gold frames to play with composition and framing within the reflection. The contrast of gold against the muted blue backdrop is chef’s kiss. These shots are some of my favorites from the session.
What I’m Learning as a Creative Photographer
Here’s the thing about committing to 52 photo shoots in a year: not every session will be perfect. And that’s exactly the point.
This creative photography session taught me that I have a big opportunity to grow in my lighting skills. Instead of being discouraged, I’m actually excited about it. Every shoot is a chance to identify what’s working, what’s not, and what I need to practice.
In fact, I’m already planning to recreate this exact concept toward the end of the year—same garage, same pool, same moody reflection vibe—and see how much I’ve grown as a photographer in those 11-12 months. That full-circle moment will be so rewarding.
The Best Way to Grow? Keep Shooting.
This is exactly why I’m doing this challenge. The best way to improve your craft isn’t by reading tutorials or watching videos (though those help). It’s by actually using your camera, trying wild ideas, making mistakes, and learning from them.
This garage pool concept proved that creative photography doesn’t require expensive rentals or elaborate locations. Sometimes all you need is some 2x4s, a tarp, a committed friend, and the willingness to try something completely new.
Want to Create Something Bold Together?
If you’re looking for a Nashville photographer who isn’t afraid to experiment, build pools in garages, or chase wild creative concepts to bring your vision to life… Let’s talk.
Book your creative photography session and let’s make something extraordinary together. Whether you want moody editorial portraits, unique senior photos, or something completely out-of-the-box, I’m here for it.
Follow along with my 52-week challenge to see what crazy idea I’m tackling next. Week one was a garage pool. Who knows what week two will bring?
Huge shoutout to Leiny (@lei_nyy) for always being down for the wildest concepts and driving two hours for the perfect wings. Check out her Instagram for her side of this adventure.
Ready to try something different? Contact me to start planning your own unforgettable session.
