It was more than an honor to be asked to romp around the river scantily clad for Jada and David Parrish of J&D Photo LLC for a (rare) personal project of theirs. Of late, they have been highlighting the accomplishments of others on a blog, Lace in Light, which they built specifically for this purpose and capturing special moments for eternity in the form of weddings, maternity shoots, and senior portraits, etc.. To be asked to model for this vision sent me over the moon with joy.
These two have put a level of hard work, love, and dedication into launching and nurturing their business that is rarely seen. As I begin growing my business in a more real way, I can personally attest to the stick-to-it-ness that Jada & David have. To witness how J&D Photo LLC has developed from the very beginning with respectful admiration, I'm truly happy for them that they are realizing the fruits of their labor.
I've delved into this topic before but feel it's important enough to revisit on a regular basis. I stepped in front of J&D's lens a few years back when I was still experiencing a significant amount of negative body image.
Before I go any further, I know this is a sensitive topic, and let me make my opinion very clear: it is not for us as individuals to decide how others should feel. "Fat," "skinny," tall, short, athletic, etc., everyone's feelings are valid. Women of all shapes and sizes talk to themselves negatively on a regular basis, looking in the mirror daily and judging themselves, feeling shame and disappointment instead of joy when they sit down to eat a cupcake. That said, approach every person with loving kindness because you simply have no idea what demons they are battling.
Now back to this negative body image I had of myself - this came from a tough period. I had completely lost track of who I was as a person, my body changed in more ways than one, and my mental state was on the upswing from a dark, depressed period. As a relatively self-assured and confident young woman, these uncertain years rattled me. Feeling vulnerable but also empowered, I decided to step in front of the J&D Photo camera. In lingerie. Yes, half naked, but in a classy sort of way of course.
With the support of my incredible sister-in-law //who is a hair and makeup ninja//, champagne provided by Jada, and the expert posing guidance //it takes a village, guys..// we made it through. I cannot overstate how glad I am that I shared this step with such a supportive group of people. If you've ever had to go through the horror of withholding food from yourself, or have sunken into a state of depression - if you've ever thought you were less than worthy of your own love, respect, appreciation, compliments - if you have ever felt like you have had to fight to come back to who you are as a person, then you know. It eventually gets easier, but every once in a blue moon, even years down the road and strides towards health and happiness later, those demons can still try to slink their way back into your bed.
You are beautiful. And only you can make yourself feel the lesser. Every moment leading up to the one we are in matters. However, each moment is fleeting and any second spent telling yourself that you are less than exceptional is one wasted. I am thankful for that first boudoir, just as I am grateful for this one. These pictures are a reminder that while thoughts of doubt and self deprecation may be unavoidable at times //demons please be gone already//, I am beautiful nonetheless-inside and out. You are beautiful. And you are worthy of your own love. However you need to remind yourself of that on occasion, be sure to do it.
If boudoir sounds like the way, check out our latest captures here, and book a session with Jada &David. You will not be disappointed, and you might find yourself empowered to take another step towards health and healing: Flower Crown River Shoot
Lingerie: Kestle Boudoir
Florals: The Green Flamingo
