Putting myself in your shoes

After creating so many portraits for others – I decided it was time to put myself on the other side of the experience, and to have my own portraits done.

Finding a photographer

First off, I decided to GOOGLE to find a photographer unknown to me,  to put myself in my clients’ shoes.

Many people find me online and book me before we can meet in person.   So I decided to do the same. I started google-ing.

Using google to find a photographer

I looked through websites, read testimonials, sent a few emails, and chose Elizabeth Nord Photography.  I felt her style was a good fit with mine, because a style where natural beauty shines through is very important to me.  I also appreciated her quick responses to my questions as we corresponded over email.

I sent the full payment for the session fee in advance (gulp), and the date was set for our session.

In front of the camera

It was a great experience to be on the other side of the camera, with the nerves and joys there.  And I did get really nervous!   Whew!   Within a few minutes of actually meeting Elizabeth for the first time she was taking photos of me.  It was a strange feeling to have a sort-of stranger pointing a camera at me.  But, I tried to relax and trust.  As the session went on, I did loosen up!

Seeing the images

When it was time to see the images… I felt a bit nervous again but also excited.

Of course I loved them!

Now a month has passed, and I have several great portraits.  I already appreciate them even more for the memory they reflect back to me.

The whole process has reinforced my empathy for my clients – for the nerves and vulnerability of being in front of the camera.   I also found this experience to further deepen my appreciation for photography.

I always look to bring out the ease & beauty in others.  Now for the first time I was looking at a gallery of professional photos that featured… well… me!  It was a positive self-affirming feeling – more so than I even suspected.  It was amazing.  I always say we create portraits to honor the ones we love.  What I didn’t realize was how it truly is also a way to honor yourself.

My mother and grandmother received prints of some of my favorite photos as a gift (they were happy!).

Despite the nerves at the beginning, I’m 100% glad I invested in my own portrait session.

I’m also glad I found a photographer that had the talent to make me feel comfortable in front of the camera.  This makes a world of difference.  And I’m honored my clients trust me to do the same for them.

With ever-deepening gratitude,

~ Oriana

All photos pictured taken by the fabulous Elizabeth Nord

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