In the world of professional photography, trends move in cycles. Having been in business for 20 years—launching Meaningful Memories Photography back on February 9th, 2009—I have watched the "pendulum of style" swing from one extreme to the other. But there is a massive difference between a stylistic choice and a technical failure.

Today, we are seeing a return to the "blur," but it’s time we had an honest conversation about the difference between lifestyle vibes and lack of skill.

The Early 2000s: The Romantic Blur

When I first started out, the "Meaningful Memories" era was all about softness. We leaned into the dreaminess of film-inspired looks and heavy bokeh. Back then, a little blur felt nostalgic and romantic. It was the industry standard for weddings and family portraits because it felt "natural."

The Decade of High-Definition Precision

As digital technology exploded, we entered a decade of "Super Focus." Cameras became so advanced that every pore, every fiber of fabric, and every lash was rendered in razor-sharp detail. This is where I truly found my home.

Transitioning into Jamie Goode Studios, I moved away from the "soft and safe" to the "bold and sharp." I spent years mastering the Science of the Glow, using Godox strobes to ensure that even at 1/8000th of a second, the focal point was undeniable. In high-end fashion and beauty, if the eyes aren't in focus, the shot is a failure. Period.

The 2026 Trend: The Return of the "Vibe"

Today, the pendulum has swung back. We see a lot of "intentional blur" on social media—motion trails, soft edges, and that film-grain lifestyle aesthetic. When done correctly, it’s art. It captures movement and emotion.

However, there is a problem surfacing in the industry.

Too many photographers are hiding behind the "lifestyle" excuse because they haven't mastered their equipment. There is a massive difference between an artist intentionally blurring a scene to create mood and a photographer who is "auto-shooting" and missing the mark.

• The Face vs. The Accessory: If your subject’s face is a blurry mess but their necklace is in sharp focus, that isn't a "vibe." That’s a missed focal point.

• The "Accidental" Artist: "Artistic blur" should be a choice made in the manual settings, not an accident caused by slow shutter speeds or poor autofocus tracking.

• The Eyes are the Priority: In beauty and branding, the eyes are the windows to the soul and the connection to the client. If the eyes are soft while the background is sharp, the connection is lost.

Why 20 Years of Experience Matters

After two decades behind the lens, I’ve learned how to "break the rules" because I spent the first ten years mastering them. Whether I’m shooting a high-glam editorial or a sharp corporate headshot, every "blur" in my frame is there because I put it there.

Don't settle for a photographer who is still trying to find their focus. Choose a studio that knows exactly where the light needs to land and where the story begins.