Stop Waiting

There are a few things I hear constantly from clients or just from people I know. 
        "When I lose 10 (or 20) pounds, I'll get in the pictures, but for now, just the kids."
        "I'd love to try a boudoir session, but it's out of my comfort zone. (or, "I need to lose       
         weight first.")
        "I am not photogenic at all."
        "Can you photoshop my skin and also make me thinner?"

The truth is, I can relate to these questions. I used to be the same way about photos. I still am sometimes. I realized a few years ago that I never got in pictures. It would be a friend or family member's birthday and I'd look for a picture of me with them to post on social media. I realized I didn't have many at all and it made me sad. So, I decided that I would get in more pictures. Even after I gained a lot of weight a couple of years ago, I still got in pictures. I just changed the composition and angles of those pictures. My desire to have these images with the people I love to look back on outweighed how I felt physically about myself. I regret not having pictures with my grandmother. I took plenty of her with my little cousins, but any I have of her and I are only from when I was little. I regret not having more pictures of me with my little cousins now that they are older. I regret not having more pictures of me with my friends from over the years.

So, my advice to you is DON'T WAIT. Whether you feel you're a little overweight or you feel you have flaws that need correction, I'm here to tell you, you are amazing the way you are RIGHT NOW. You  will be happy when you look back and see your images. My job is to make you look great. Remember a professional photographer with professional equipment can do a lot more for you than a cell phone. I understand insecurities. I will make you feel comfortable. I will capture you in the most flattering and beautiful way. 

We all have insecurities. We all have things we would want to change about ourselves. Personally, I've come to love my body and what I've done to make it truly healthy. I have never been and will never be a "skinny" person. I have muscle and feel strong and have curves. My stomach isn't completely flat like it was when I was 18, I have fat on my body. I'm fine with that. There are days I pick things out that I want to change but I remind myself that I am good the way I am. I'm healthy and strong and that is what truly matters. 

So, I challenge you. Step outside your comfort zone. Embrace who you are at this moment, no matter what you want to work toward (and make a realistic and healthy plan if you feel you need to). I've had people who get in pictures or have a boudoir session that are nervous to see the finished product, but then they are very happy they did it. I promise you, you will be happy. I will help you see your beauty, whether it's in a boudoir shoot or a family shoot where your happiness (which I also consider as "beauty) is shown in your interaction with your family. 

DO.NOT.WAIT. You won't regret it. And remember, your imperfections are what make you who you are. THAT is beautiful. 

Book that session you've been afraid of and see how great you feel. 

XO
Nicole