The first time I communicated with Ms. T about a session, I got a special vibe. She was so warm and kind and I could tell that this experience was going to mean a lot to her.
She came over for her in-person consultation and was open to trying on any outfits from my client closet that I recommended. We talked about her vision for the shoot and her insecurities. I promised her, as I always do, that when the day came she would feel much more at ease.
As a woman who does not typically wear makeup or style her hair, she was blown away by her transformation due to the professional hair and makeup application. However, I think women look just as gorgeous with a bare face, and Ms. T was no exception. The main difference that I can see in my clients post-hair and makeup application is a boost in their confidence after they’ve been pampered a bit.
We began her session and I was immediately so inspired by her natural beauty. I watched her work through her fears and open up in her posing. She bravely acquiesced to all of my requests for close up “beauty shots” of the face, even though those typically made her uncomfortable.
Throughout the session I kept reassuring her that she looked incredible and was doing great. Towards the end, she shared a very personal experience with me- trauma that she had suffered early on. She told me that the boudoir portrait experience was transformative for her as she worked towards reclaiming her identity and sexuality. My heart was so full at that moment and I was overwhelmed with gratitude that she chose to share that with me.
We viewed her images together and I was truly moved by her reaction. I myself was giddy with excitement as we clicked through her slideshow.
I have reached out to Ms. T several times since her session for advice or simply to say hello because she left such a lasting impression on me, and I hope to photograph her again in the future so that I can capture some more of that beautiful energy. I am so grateful that life lead our paths to cross!
“I was extremely nervous to participate in a photo shoot of this kind. I am usually uncomfortable with my body and do not show it off. I have personal trauma that also hinders my ability to let loose sometimes. This shoot was transformative. It brought me a sense of self love, as well as comfortability in my sexuality. I cannot explain how it felt to see my pictures. Alisha captured a side of myself that I do not usually see. It was raw and beautiful. It was incredibly rewarding. I would recommend this experience to every single woman. She personalizes your shoot so it can be for anyone. I feel like a goddess! Every woman deserves that feeling!”
Hair: Sydney Hogan
Makeup: Kiss and Makeup