So many of my clients struggle with insecurity. Critical of the features that make them unique. So many women have told me “I want to do a session with you, but I need to lose a few more pounds first.” The incredible thing is that the way we see ourselves isn’t even remotely close to what others see in us.
I have a friend who is a really beautiful girl. For years, I remember looking at the photos of her that she would post on Facebook and just shake my head. They were almost always the classic “duckface” style (kissy lips, protruding cheekbones) and from an angle that made her look just completely different than any time I’ve ever seen her in person. It really bothered me that she never wanted to post a “real” photo of herself. Once, while we were having lunch together, she was laughing about something and looked extremely joyful and beautiful, so I snapped a photo of her. It was a gorgeous photograph. To me, it represented everything that I love about her. But she took one look at it and said “eew! My chin looks fat and my teeth are weird. Delete that immediately!”
Why couldn’t she see how beautiful she looked when she was simply being herself?
You have a wonderful way of making people feel comfortable and beautiful when you photograph them. When I look at our pictures, I don’t really see us, I see the emotions- so lovely.
I couldn’t love this more! Your words are so true, I wish everyone could read this! Love that Dove commercial
Two years ago, based on some ideas and thoughts of Karen Walrond, writer and photographer, I made a vow never to say negative things about photographs of myself. To at least find that one positive thing about me in the picture and focus on that. I’m not perfect at doing this all the time but it’s surprising how you view yourself differently when you aren’t constantly putting yourself down.
That was exceptionally beautiful and moving. Thank you Julie.