50 Shades of Be Yourself

It is not often that I want to fully style an inspired set in studio, but as soon as this gorgeous woman arrived for our session it was all of my 50 Shades of Grey fantasies come true!  She was the PERFECT look for an Anastasia Steele inspired shoot. 

But what I quickly learned was that this woman was unashamed to be herself…that the inspiration was still there but went right out the window and we photographed her…exactly as she was in her most magnificent form. 

Let’s hear what this babe had to say about her Self Love Experience below!

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You’re too small. You’re too heavy. You don’t wear enough makeup. You don’t wear the right clothes. You’re so tall. You’re so short. You don’t change your hairstyle enough. You’re a lady so you have to be modest, hide yourself. You shouldn’t talk like that.

As women we are constantly told what we shouldn’t do, how we should act, how we should dress. We are brought down and taught to hide ourselves, like there is something wrong with us and we shouldn’t be proud of who we are. We are especially taught that we can’t be proud of our bodies. We become hypercritical of ourselves because of all of these outside opinions. 

I absolutely love the human body, it is a beautiful miracle that just fascinates me. Every one is so unique, every dimple, scar, freckle tells a different story. Our bodies carry us through life, through hardships, pain, joy, love. Our bodies should be celebrated, not hidden or shamed. We should be proud of our bodies and appreciate how different and unique we all are.

I was definitely nervous when I booked the shoot with Lindsay. I was worried about what other people would think if they saw it – would they call me a slut? Would they make fun of what I’m wearing, my facial expression…the list goes on. I decided I didn’t care what other people thought, I was doing this for me. My nerves were still in the back of my mind when I went to the studio, but disappeared as soon as I met Lindsay and Erin. They made me feel comfortable and confident. Working with them was just so empowering, I left feeling amazing. 

I wrote this down as soon as I got home that day so I could look back and remember exactly how I felt when I left the studio. I wish everyone could feel like I did that day. There aren’t enough words to properly describe how amazingly strong and confident and sexy I felt. I find myself fumbling for the right words. It was just incredible.

So to close this out, be strong, be bold, be proud, just be you…and always love yourself.

-A

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Hair and Makeup by Erin Marie Artistry