During a recent session my client and I had a brief discussion about how the version of you that shows up on my camera doesn’t always match the “you” that shows up in your mirror every morning… or in your mind.

I’ve had this conversation before. I’m sure I’ll have it again.

“Look in a mirror and one thing’s sure; what we see is not who we are.” – Richard Bach

Body image is how you see yourself when you look in the mirror or when you picture yourself in your mind. It’s a combination of the thoughts and feelings that you have about your body, and may range between positive and negative experiences, and one person may feel at different times positive or negative or a combination of both.

My hope is that you’ll see what I see when you look at the photographs I’ve captured of you: the truly stunning person you are. What I find sometimes, however, is that some people are resistant and push back with, “that doesn’t look like me”… and then they start picking themselves apart. It breaks my heart when this happens. My goal is for you to love what you see; these photos are not to provide fodder for self-criticism.

“We look into mirrors but we only see the effects of our times on us – not our effects on others.” – Pearl Bailey

You and your body are amazing! Let’s celebrate it, instead of tearing it town. Are you still breathing? Fantastic! Can you still laugh? Oh, joy! Are you still dreaming? Wonderful! Even if they rest of you isn’t quite what you hoped, I want you to find the positive in your pictures.

I want you to feel good about yourself… and I want to showcase your beauty in timeless images. You know where your beauty is? It’s in your smile, your eyes, and your confident attitude. It’s in the love you exude so brightly that we can’t help but see it. It’s your inner beauty showing itself on the outside.

So you may have a few extra pounds or stretch marks or saggy arms, but that is not where your true beauty is! Your true beauty is in you -  your heart and soul - and the way you love your children and your family and your friends. And those flabby arms? They hug and comfort and bring joy to those you share them with. Let it shine outwardly, and let me save that image for you as a reminder.

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Ready for some great photographs? Let’s get to know each other over coffee (or smoothies… or milkshakes…), and talk about celebrating your life’s true beauty in images you love. You can reach me at [email protected] or (434) 226-0365, and let me know when and where you'd like to meet!

My Promise: Together, we will create amazing photos you’ll want to share. How do you want to be photographed?