Every year as the holiday season approaches, I start to think, “What gifts can I get my loved ones to show them how much they mean to me?” In my mind, the perfect gift is thoughtful, specific to the person I’m giving it to, and can be cherished for a long time. Don’t get me wrong, I love white elephant gifts and knick-knacks just as much as the next person, but sometimes I enjoy making someone feel special by really nailing a gift idea.

And I know I’m not the only one who likes to find the perfect gift. So, for all of you holiday shoppers with your Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping carts ready to go, I encourage you to step off the throttle and consider something: portrait photography as a gift for loved ones, and maybe even for yourself.

As a photographer, I can go on and on about the gift of photography, but here I’ve narrowed down the top three reasons to consider a portrait session as a thoughtful and loving gift…

To help loved ones see themselves as you do

Have you ever had a friend or family member who was unable to see their own beauty? It is so common for us to be more critical of ourselves than we are of our loved ones. It’s easy to forget that the people we love have the same struggle. At the end of the day, we’re all human.

Self-confidence is a journey and everyone could use a little reminder that they are appreciated and cherished for being their unique selves. Photography is a way to remind loved ones how you and the rest of the world see them: sexy, goofy, smart, driven, trendy, mysterious － irreplaceable.

To give a memorable & transformative experience

One of the many wonderful things about portrait photography is that it is not a singular “one-and-done,” swipe of the card transaction. In my studio, portrait photography is about the experience itself and the memories created in the process. A photoshoot gives us time to truly see ourselves, pamper ourselves, and indulge in sharing our story through the lens of a camera; it’s an opportunity to unapologetically feel seen and appreciated; to get re-acquainted with the different facets of ourselves that shape us, and celebrate that. It can change the way you see yourself.

To keep a legacy alive

What mark has your loved one left on this world? Love is a true indicator that someone has made a difference in our lives － that their presence adds so much richness to our own human experience. This richness is part of a legacy, the impact, and the message that someone imparts on the world. It doesn't have to be after they are gone. What is your legacy now? How do you want others to see you and how do you want to see and celebrate yourself and life's journey? Photography is a way to capture those indescribable things about those close to us that we cherish the most; it’s a way to document stories that were so pivotal in our own lives.

I believe my own legacy is to lift people up and empower them through photography and I’m so passionate about using my camera and the photoshoot experience to heal others and make them feel appreciated.

Photography is evidence we exist in this world. A photograph will outlive us and it is one of the best ways to preserve our memory and legacy.

If you’d like to explore your photography gifting options, I’d love to hear from you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.

We will guide you throughout the session.
As I believe Photoshoots should be an empowering & fun experience
to treasure everyone’s legacy.