My "WhY"

Your “why” motivates everything you do. I’d like to take the time to get a little vulnerable (it’s only fair) and share a few “whys” that have led me to pursue a career in this specific field of photography. 

My mom is an amazing woman: selfless to a fault, deeply caring and loving, boundlessly energetic in her service to others. She is the glue that holds our whole family together. And yet, she doesn’t see how beautiful she is. I grew up hearing her complain about her body, dismissing every compliment and true statement about her inner - and outer - beauty. These negative comments impacted my self-image, especially because I inherited so many of her physical traits. It taught me to talk about myself the same way. But beyond that, it breaks my heart that she doesn’t see herself as she truly is: absolutely beautiful. 

I also have a little sister. She’s a big-hearted elementary-school kiddo, and as she grows up, I don’t want her to have the same problem. We teach little ones to love – or reject – their bodies through the ways we talk about ours. The first reason I’m drawn to boudoir photography is to reframe the narrative patterns that women in many families have fallen into. Moms are conditioned to despise each stretch mark, reject each scar, and forever regret no longer having the body of a teenager. By photographing women in empowering ways, I strive to shift the way these women see themselves. 

I’ve also personally experienced the power of boudoir photography. Years ago, I discovered a romantic partner had been engaging in affairs. Obviously, his infidelity was a reflection of his own unhealed traumas, but they were also a bleak invitation to see myself as “less than.” Instead of giving in to the negative self-talk this could have inspired, I turned to faith, family, friends, and surprisingly, boudoir photography. 

Creating and seeing images of myself highlighting my own strength, beauty, and vulnerability played a part in the story of my own healing. Boudoir photography was an encouraging reminder that I was strong, valuable, and created perfectly in the image of God. It emphasized that I was not an object, nor optional. 

Having witnessed both the need for this style of photography as well as its own cathartic impact in my own life, I now have a deep desire to continue empowering women, showing them just how valuable they truly are, just as they are. I honestly believe Boudoir photography has the potential to change the world for the better. It’s an honor to be called to instill confidence and self-assurance in my subjects, reminding women that they are sensual, sacred, and seen.