In Their Own Skin: Rachel
WELCOME TO THE “IN THEIR OWN SKIN” SERIES.
One of the biggest honors of my job as a boudoir photographer is hearing the stories clients share with me. While these stories are not mine to share on a public platform, I hold them close in my heart. They bring me inspiration, strength, and light in a way that only true humanity and vulnerability can.
I created the “In Their Own Skin” series to share some of these stories with you. The “In Their Own Skin” participants graciously consented to share their stories (told in their own words) alongside their boudoir pictures. My sincere hope is that these stories and pictures will bring you moments of strength, uplift your soul, and encourage you to keep moving forward, especially as we navigate these challenging times.
Today I get to introduce you to Rachel, the next participant in the “In Their Own Skin” series! Rachel reflects on the things she’s gained in her life over the last five years in a really awesome, thoughtful way. Her portraits radiate with so much inner strength and power! Here are her words.
“My name is Rachel, and I'm 30 years old. I've lived all over the state and currently reside in Southeast Minnesota. I'm a security officer at a nuclear power plant, an interesting and fun job in a male-dominated field.
“I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety 17 years ago. I can't count the number of days I didn't want to get out of bed in the morning. I still have those days. But I get up, and I push through.
“When my mind tells me I can't succeed, I'm a failure, I'm not strong enough, or I can't handle what life has thrown at me, I prove myself wrong every time. I have survived 100% of my bad days.
“A list of things I've gained besides weight in the last five years:
Self-confidence
Empathy (towards others)
Compassion (towards myself)
Clarity
A sense of purpose
Perspective
Life experience
Freedom from regret”
Rachel, it was so lovely to work together! Your inner strength and sense of empowerment really shines in your portraits. I love how you talk about everything you’ve gained over the last five years and remind yourself that you’ve survived 100% of your bad days -- that’s such an awesome mantra. Thank you for trusting me with your boudoir portraits!