A few months ago, my small group leader and friend, Callie Aldridge, asked me to model for a shoot she was styling for Fresh Style Magazine. I was pretty nervous, but knew that I was in good hands, as Callie is ridiculously talented.

I hyped myself up and tried to get mentally prepared to do something new. But, when I showed up I was still a little nervous.  Then something magical happened. Callie and the photographer, Stephanie Welbourne Grund, made me laugh, they told me I was beautiful, they gasped and squealed with excitement after each frame shot… they helped me relax and boosted my confidence.

As a photographer, it is easy to get caught up in the act of shooting — focusing on the camera settings, the pose, and the composition of the shot.  But, the person in front of the camera matters most. Being on the other side of the camera allowed me to walk in the shoes of my client, and reminded me to make sure my sessions remain fun and to always give constant encouragement to ease the nervousness that all of us feel!

Thank you Callie Aldridge (styling),  Celine Russell (makeup), and Stephanie Melbourne Grund (photography) for the fantastic experience! Xo