Understanding my clients’ perspective is key, and I was long overdue to put myself in that same space. After more than a decade of empowering photoshoots for women, I decided to flip the script and experience it for myself. Photographers, including myself, often forget to be on the other side of the camera. So, I chose to travel to Belgium to experience a photo shoot with a photographer I have admired for a very long time . Going through this, I felt exactly what my clients do—the excitement, the doubts: How do I want to show up? What should I wear? Yep, the whole “I need to go shopping” and “I should probably slim down” thoughts hit me too. It was an eye-opener. I thought I understood before, but now I have a whole new clarity!
After hitting the big 5-0 five years ago, I embarked on a journey to embrace and appreciate myself more. Opting for a photoshoot became my way of celebrating the love I have for my body and life, shifting away from fixating on what I thought were flaws.
Having witnessed the transformative power of photoshoots for my clients as a portrait photographer, I realized it was high time to experience that power personally.
Honestly, seeing these portraits makes me feel more at ease in my own skin than ever before. I’ve always taken pride in my smile lines, but with the constant flow of messages from the media and TV, self-doubt can easily sneak in.
I also decided to go a little more on the sexier side, because, why not?! I love this body of mine, and I’m all about celebrating female power!
Experiencing firsthand what my clients go through and navigating this process myself was truly amazing. And the best part? Just like many of my clients, my husband joined me at the end of the session to update our portraits together … last time was our wedding 28 years ago!!
I have always known, but now truly realize, why it is so important to have a photo shoot experience, and to exist in photographs.
- Celebrate Your Journey: A photo shoot is a fantastic way to celebrate the unique journey in life you’ve had so far! It’s a visual acknowledgment of the experiences, milestones, and personal growth that brought you to this point.
- Boost Confidence: Professional photographs can showcase your beauty, strength, and confidence. It’s a powerful way to recognize and appreciate your unique qualities, fostering a positive self-image. I have never felt as good about myself as I do now, at age 55! Confident, empowered, joyful.
- Trust the Process : Photoshoots are a journey, and a system that when led by a pro, guarantees beautiful portraits. I had no doubt that Wendy with Zoom Foto Atelier would take great care of me, I felt completely at ease. I know this is not easy to do, but you may be surprised when you let go and let life lead you!
- Express Your Authentic Self: A photo shoot allows you to express your authentic self, capturing your personality, style, and individuality. It’s an opportunity to showcase who you truly are.
- Family Legacy: Your photographs contribute to the visual legacy of your family. They become a part of the narrative that future generations can look back on, something that I personally value highly. I lost my own mother last year, and the photographs I have of her are my most treasured thing I own.
- Challenge Age Stereotypes: Embracing a photo shoot challenges societal stereotypes related to age and beauty. It sends a powerful message about confidence, self-love, and the beauty that comes with maturity.
- Pamper Yourself: A photo shoot is an opportunity for some well-deserved pampering. Professional hair and makeup, styling, and the overall experience can be a delightful way to treat yourself. Pampering IS self-care, which in turn makes you stronger & more resilient!
- Personal Growth Reflection: Looking back at your photographs can serve as a visual reflection of your personal growth. It’s a tangible record of the strength and wisdom you’ve gained over the years.
In my role as a portrait photographer, I find immense joy in capturing and highlighting the beauty, power, and strength within you. Witnessing your happiness during our sessions fuels my passion. However, recently, I stepped into your position, and it was a profoundly humbling experience. I GET you now, 100%.
You totally deserve a day that’s all about you – where everyone’s pampering you, and you’re the model for the day. Wanna make that happen? Check out my work, and let’s chat about making it your day. I’m pumped to help you discover your own shine and give you an experience that’ll rock every part of your life. And who knows, you might even leave with some cool life lessons! 🙂
You deserve a day where everyone focuses on you, where you’re the star, and where you feel absolutely fantastic! Take a peek at my portfolio and schedule a call to make that day yours. I’m excited to help you uncover your own radiance and provide an experience that positively transforms every aspect of your life.
xo Kathy
