I wanted to take some time to write about my upcoming Free To Be Me sessions and why they are so near and dear to my heart. These sessions focus on girls between the ages of 8/9 and 15/16. What have been referred to in the world of photography as the “middle” years. Those years when they are no longer cute, squishy toddler twirling in tutus and they aren’t grown women leaving for college.
These years are so important to photograph. They are the years when girls start to compare themselves to others, they become self conscious and become so harsh on themselves and yet we stop photographing them. These are the years the world begins to tell them that they are not enough. Anytime I photograph girls in this age group they just light up in front of the camera. There is something about the experience that makes them feel so valued and special. They love it and deserve it!
I remember holding Eva, my first born, when she was a baby and crying about the day she did not feel like she was enough. The day she didn’t feel pretty enough, smart enough, good enough, etc. This thought broke my heart and I’ve already seen these thoughts creep into her head at the age of five and half. An amazing photographer, Shalonda of Chubby Cheek Photography in TX, who I’ve had the pleasure of learning from inspired to create these sessions for young girls in the hopes of filling their cups and letting them know just how special they are.
Another reason this age group begs to be photographed is because they have developed their own interests and personalities. I wanted to incorporate things that make them unique into their session. Softball, basketball, cheerleading, art, drama, dance…. These kids have worked hard at developing these skills and these experiences have shaped who they are.
The Free to be Me sessions are taking place on Sunday, May 3 2020 between 9:30am and 10:30am (providing all of the social distancing is behind us). I have two sessions left at 9:30 and 3:30. The session experience is an hour long private studio session. Included for each girl is a mini makeover with a professional makeup artist, a 20 minute photoshoot, a take home goody bag, and a special surprise tailored to each girl that will be so special and so much more than something materialistic. Also included is 15 digital images and a print release. Click here to grab one of the spots I have left.
I am so excited to share with you another incredible photographer from across the world. Jillian Faulkner is a Calgary outdoor family photographer and her post is about the best time of day to have your outdoor photoshoot!
Valerie Eidson is an award winning Asheville family and child photographer. She specializes in portraits of families, children and newborns.
