Most of us learn to see luxury as something outside ourselves.

A place.
An item.
An upgrade.

We connect it with comfort, beauty, and ease.
But as we get older, something quietly changes.

Luxury stops being about what’s around you
and starts to become about what you let yourself be.

For many, this change begins when they finally put themselves first.

Not selfishly.
Not dramatically.
Just with intention.

At a certain point in life, this question shows up unexpectedly:

When was the last time I did something just to acknowledge myself?

Not for work.
Not for family.
Not because it was practical or productive.

Simply because you’re living in a moment that matters.

We rarely see self-recognition as a luxury, but it’s becoming more common.
We’re rewarded for being responsible and capable. We record our achievements, not our presence. We save celebrations for big moments and put off everything else for “later.”

But “later” quietly takes the place of “now” more often than we realize.

That’s when the meaning of luxury starts to shift.

At first, luxury seems like an upgrade.

Later, it turns into giving yourself permission.

Permission to take a break without having to earn it.
Permission to be noticed without having to perform.
Permission to recognize a moment in your life that others might overlook.

Somewhere between who you hoped to become and who life made you, there’s a version of you that deserves to be seen, even if nothing big happened.

Especially then.

Many people think portraits are only for special occasions.

But the photos that mean the most over time are rarely connected to big events.
They’re connected to seasons of life.

Like the year you finally felt steady again.
The age at which you began to see yourself in a new way.
Or the chapter that didn’t seem important while you were living it.

Choosing to capture yourself in those moments isn’t about vanity. It’s an act of self-respect. There is nothing extravagant or self-absorbed about recognizing yourself and your journey. In fact, letting yourself be seen is a courageous and deeply human act. Self-celebration is not only normal, but it’s also vital, something everyone deserves to experience.
It’s about being aware.

It’s realizing that your life is happening right now, not someday in the future.

Putting yourself first doesn’t always look dramatic.
Sometimes it just means slowing down enough to notice who you’ve become.

That’s when the idea of luxury changes completely.

It stops being something you have to get
and becomes something you let yourself experience.

Being able to notice your own life while you’re still living it might be one of the rarest things we get to do.

Maybe the real question isn’t whether you need a portrait.

Maybe it’s this:

When does your presence in your own story become something worth saving?

If you feel ready, consider giving yourself the experience of a portrait session, not just as a photograph, but as an act of honoring who you are right now. It could be the gentle step that reminds you your story is already worth remembering.

When you hear the word headshot, your mind probably goes straight to resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and corporate offices. However, headshots aren’t just for work anymore.

Today, headshots show up in all kinds of places that have nothing to do with job hunting. If you’re enrolled in continuing education or online courses, a professional headshot helps your classmates and instructors put a face to your name. It adds a personal layer to digital learning spaces and quietly communicates that you’re engaged and invested.

Whether you're standing in front of a classroom, writing articles, or presenting research, a project that includes a short author bio with an author bio headshot will assist in creating an instant connection. Before you say a word, your audience already has a sense of who you are. Pairing your work with a well-created professional image reinforces authorship and ownership. it says, this is my voice, and I stand behind it.

A good professional headshot doesn’t need to feel stiff, overly posed, or corporate. It simply needs to feel like you - approachable and confident. Wherever your work is shared, a thoughtful headshot helps your presence feel intentional and authentic.

A recent experience reminded me how easily policies designed for efficiency can quietly erode the customer experience.
I had planned to stop by a bakery for a quick dessert and coffee. But on a whim, I chose a sit-down restaurant I frequent, seeking a moment of calm and a slightly elevated experience. I let the hostess know I was just there for dessert and coffee.
That’s when things shifted. I was initially directed to order at the register, then told I could stay seated. If I knew what I wanted she would get it for me. My order was brought out, but no server followed. No water. No check-in. No refill. Eventually, a bill was dropped with the offer to take it when I was ready to pay. At this point I politely asked if something was wrong with my visit, I was told: “Our policy is not to assign servers unless a full meal is ordered.” That moment revealed a deeper issue: service was tied to the size of the order not the value of the guest.

Too often, businesses make snap judgments based on perceived sales potential. Policies, while intended to streamline operations, can lead to missed opportunities when they override common sense hospitality.

A guest who is in your space and not ordering from the FULL menu is not a “waste of a table.” Every guest is a human being choosing to do business with you. That choice should always be met with dignity and attentiveness.

As business owners, we must remember that quality service and a positive experience aren't only reserved for clients who spend more. Every client interaction and experience is an opportunity to build loyalty and positive relationships with the potential for future business. Set policies that reflect this truth: every guest is valuable to your success because that guest made the choice to be in your space. 

Honor that choice.

Turning 50 in the workforce comes with a unique set of challenges—something I’ve heard time and again in conversations at the studio. Many clients have shared their struggles, from facing age discrimination to the frustration of landing a first interview but never getting a call back—or worse, hearing nothing at all.
I am grateful to each of them who have shared their experiences. It helps me in understanding them and their needs. I have also taken away a great deal of understanding in how they have decided to navigate the job market with confidence and resilience on their terms.

Staying Visible and Valued in the Workforce After 50

Reaching 50 in your career is not a setback—it’s a strength. You bring decades of experience, insight, and resilience that younger colleagues are still building. However, staying visible and valued in a rapidly evolving workplace requires adaptability, confidence, and a strategic approach. Here’s how you can continue thriving:

1. Stay Tech-Savvy
Technology is one of the biggest shifts in today’s workforce. Embracing new tools, apps, and platforms keeps you relevant. Take online courses, attend webinars, or ask a tech-savvy colleague for tips. The more comfortable you are with digital advancements, the more indispensable you become.

2. Keep Learning and Growing
Your wealth of experience is an asset, but continual learning keeps you competitive. Seek out certifications, industry updates, and professional development opportunities. Showing a growth mindset signals to employers that you're adaptable and eager to contribute.

3. Build Your Brand
Whether you're in corporate, freelancing, or consulting, your reputation matters. Leverage your website, Social Media, or LinkedIn to showcase your expertise, write articles, or engage in discussions. Position yourself as a thought leader and a mentor, demonstrating your ongoing value to your industry.

4. Network with Intention
Building relationships remains key at any stage. Engage with younger colleagues, attend industry events, and reconnect with past connections. Networking isn't just about job hunting—it’s about staying in the loop and opening doors to new opportunities.

5. Embrace Change with Confidence
The workplace evolves, and so can you. Whether it’s AI, remote work, or new business strategies, approach change with curiosity instead of fear. Your ability to pivot and adapt showcases your resilience—an invaluable trait in any professional setting.

6. Be a Mentor, and a Student
Your experience makes you a valuable mentor, but don’t just teach—learn. Engage in cross-generational mentorship, where both younger and older professionals share insights. This fosters collaboration and shows that you’re not just experienced but also open-minded.

7. Advocate for Your Value
Don’t wait for recognition—own your achievements. Keep track of your contributions and articulate them confidently in performance reviews and meetings. Show that you’re not just part of the workforce—you’re shaping it.

Being 50+ in the workforce is not a disadvantage—it’s a power move. With the right mindset and strategy, you can continue to thrive, contribute, and be recognized for the incredible value you bring.

A unique aspect of my work lies in the commitment to privacy for clients in the age of social media.

In the ever-changing world of digital connectivity and instant sharing, the studio is a space where magic happens away from the public eye. Among the creativity and commissioned works there are also deep conversation that take place. Recently, conversations have been focused on greater privacy considerations in the age of social media with requests like “Please do not share my portraits online.”

In a society that often measures success by online visibility, the studio stands as a testament to the essential value of artistry for its own sake. The joy of creation, the fulfillment of bringing visions to life, and the satisfaction of connecting with you on a deeply personal level are the driving forces that keep the studio alive with creative energy. The studio is a confidential space where artistic visions unfold free from the scrutiny of the public domain. Every conversation before, during, and after the click of the shutter is a unique collaboration, creating memories that are meant exclusively for you.

In my commitment to you, the studio shall continue to navigate the delicate balance between public exposure and the sanctity of artistic expression. It is within these four walls that creativity unfolds, and where the essence of art is preserved, whether it graces the digital world or stays hidden, known only to those who share in its creation.

Not everything needs to be showcased on a digital platform; some creations find their true meaning in the tangible, personal, and private connection between the client and the art.

Contact me today. I am excited to begin the process of collaborating on your portrait experience and cannot wait to create art that expresses your personal story. Take comfort in knowing the studio remains dedicated to creating art that carries a depth of emotion and personal narrative that resonates with you. Whether your portraits are shared via social media or kept offline is a decision made by you.

One frequently ask question I get from people when they hear “schedule your complimentary consultation” is “What is the purpose of this meeting?” If you too have ever wondered what the consultation process is and what to expect during the meeting, here are some details.

The portrait consultation is designed to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for you to express your vision, preferences, and aspirations for your portrait. It starts with a get-to-know-each-other conversation. This conversation is where the two of us will learn more about each other. You get to share your story, your why, and how you want to be captured in the artwork. This conversation helps forge a meaningful connection between the two of us and ensures that your portraits truly reflect you.

The duration of the consultation typically ranges from 30 minutes to an hour. I value your time and aim to make the most of our session together. However, if the conversation naturally extends beyond the scheduled time, I welcome it as I believe it is essential to ensure that we are a perfect match for each other.

During the consultation, I will share my artistic style, my portfolio of previous works. I believe it's essential for you to familiarize yourself with my approach to ensure that the two of us are the right fit for your artistic vision. At the end of your consultation, if you feel that the studio is the right fit to bring your vision to life, you'll have the option to proceed in scheduling a portrait session.

To book a portrait session, a $2000.00 deposit is required to reserve the session date. The deposit serves as a commitment and is applied towards your chosen package. The studio offers two packages: one with 10 images and another with 20 images. These packages are carefully curated to ensure they suit various preferences and needs.

I understand the significance of your investment and am committed to providing you with an exceptional and memorable photography experience that goes beyond merely taking pictures.
I believe in the power of photography to capture not just images but emotions, stories, and experiences. The goal is to create stunning, evocative portraits that will stand the test of time, becoming cherished family heirlooms for generations to come.

In all, your portrait consultation is more than just a conversation; it's a journey of understanding, connection, and artistry. I look forward to guiding you through this fulfilling experience and creating a portrait that will become a cherished part of your legacy. If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. I can't wait to photograph you!

You hold the power.
Do not limit yourself to others' perceptions or societal expectations. You make the rules for your life, and you alone have the authority to decide who you want to be. Embrace your flaws, accept your truth, and nurture your aspirations. Break free from external influences and believe wholeheartedly in yourself and your dreams by unleashing your full potential.

Refuse to be confined by what others think you should be.
Embrace your uniqueness. Recognize what sets you apart from the crowd. Step into your full potential by embracing the unique parts of yourself, don't be afraid to challenge societal norms. You are not defined by one label or aspect of yourself but by the sum of all your experiences and aspirations. Celebrate your differences. Don't shy away from expressing yourself authentically.

You are the author of your life story.
Don't allow others to impose their opinions on you. Trust your instincts and stay true to yourself. Believe in yourself, take risks, and be willing to work hard for what you desire. Your truth is an ever-evolving entity that adapts as you grow, learn, and experience life. Embrace the journey. Use this journey as a compass to navigate your life to write your story.

As a portrait photographer, I have the privilege of creating timeless images that serve as invaluable milestones in the lives of my clients. To ensure an extraordinary experience, I encourage individuals to embark on their portrait journey well in advance.

To make the most of your portrait session, contact me as soon as you consider the experience. It may be six months to a year before a final date is determined. However, early involvement in the portrait process empowers you with knowledge and understanding, paving the way for an even more extraordinary outcome. Before your scheduled portrait session, we will engage in enlightening discussions about the significance of portraiture to you. With this knowledge, you give yourself the freedom to explore various options. These discussions give me an idea of how to design an unforgettable portrait session that is authentically yours. Whether you envision a classic and timeless portrait that embodies elegance, a vibrant and contemporary composition that captures your dynamic spirit, or a themed session that showcases your passions and interests, we will bring your vision to life. In my studio, you are encouraged to embrace the transformative nature of portraiture that celebrates your unique narrative.

Start the process today. You can rest assured that your investment will yield portraits of the utmost quality, crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to capturing the essence of who you are.

Changes come with age.

Prioritize your health.

Stay mindful in cultivating your social connections.

Keep your mind active.

Practice self-love.

Discover your passion.

In these actions you can embrace personal growth and lead a richer, meaningful life.

Dear Self,
Don’t allow limiting beliefs ingrained in your mind, to hold yourself back or make yourself small.
Limiting beliefs create barriers that hinder yourself from reaching your true potential. Challenge  these self-imposed limitations through introspection and self-reflection. Acknowledge your strengths, set realistic goals, and persistently take small steps forward. Shatter the confines of doubt and fear, replacing limiting beliefs with unwavering self-confidence.

Focus on the possibilities instead of dwelling on obstacles. Train your mind to see opportunities even in the face of adversity. Learn to embrace gratitude, practice self-care, and surround yourself with uplifting influences. Create your journey towards success with a positive mindset and achieve what YOU want.

Set clear intentions and goals to manifest your desires. Create your roadmap to success. Break down larger goals into smaller, actionable steps. Celebrate each milestone you have achieved along the way. Keep yourself focused and you will witness your self-confidence bloom as you see progress.

This journey is a long-term commitment. You will encounter setbacks and face moments of self-doubt. However, embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth. Strengthen your resolve. Always remember, each hurdle is a reminder that setbacks do not define you.

There is a world of opportunities out there. Your determination to keep pushing forward shapes your destiny and will unlock the boundless potential within you.

~ XOXO

Creating captivating product photography is crucial for business owners. You may have spent countless hours struggling to capture that perfect shot only to get mediocre results that fail to grab your customers' attention. However, R. L. Studio Portraiture can help you create visually stunning and professional images that take your product marketing to the next level.

Your investment in high-quality, professional product photography will capture the attention of your clients and entice them to explore further.
Enhancing your product's perceived value with crisp, vibrant images, accurate colors, and sharp details is the first step in building trust with your clients about your product. By sharing consistently high-quality authentic visuals across your marketing channels, you create a cohesive and professional brand identity that resonates with your target audience. These actions encourage customer loyalty and drive repeat purchases.

First impressions matter. We understand that product photography is an art form. Your product images are often the first point of contact between your brand and potential customers. Professionally crafted images increase the likelihood of sales and contribute to your brand recognition and reputation. R. L. Studio Portraiture is skilled in techniques that enhance the beauty and appeal of your products. Our understanding of lighting, composition, and aesthetics; transforms your products into visually appealing, attention-grabbing product images. By enhancing the beauty and appeal of your products, we can make them come alive and spark the desire of potential buyers.

Don't settle for mediocre product photos any longer. Grab the attention of your customers and drive sales. Contact R. L. Studio Portraiture to discuss your business needs. Let's work together to unlock the true potential of your products and take your marketing efforts to new heights. With skillful techniques, equipment, and an artistic eye, we will transform your product marketing into a stunning visual experience. Say hello to increased brand recognition, customer engagement, and business success!

Create a space in your home that reflects your life's journey. By choosing to display your photographs, you not only enhance the aesthetic of your home but also surround yourself with reminders of the beautiful moments you've shared with loved ones.

Photographs have a unique ability to evoke emotions and create a sense of warmth and connection. When you place them strategically throughout your home, they become visual storytellers, showcasing the chapters of your life. Whether it's a family portrait, a vacation snapshot, or a candid moment with friends, each photograph holds a special place in your heart and can bring joy every time you look at it.
Moreover, displaying your photographs on your walls allows you to enjoy them. They are reminders of the love, happiness, and experiences that have shaped your life. Rather than keeping these precious memories tucked away in your phone or computer, bringing them to life and showcasing them in your home adds depth and personalization to your living space.
Don't be afraid. Curate your photo gallery in your home. Let your walls tell your story by surrounding yourself with the moments and people you hold dear. It's a simple yet powerful way to create a welcoming and meaningful atmosphere in your home.

As a photographer passionate about celebrating women, I invite you to step into my studio because it's time to create images that will make you fall in love with yourself all over again.

In our day-to-day lives, it's easy to overlook our own significance. We often find ourselves behind the camera, photographing others but neglecting to acknowledge our own worth. Always remember, you are a work of art. Beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and ages, and my photography celebrates the diversity and uniqueness of women. Existing in photos is an act of self-love and empowerment and can unlock a new level of confidence and self-assurance.

Your life has been a remarkable journey. Making the time to invest in yourself and celebrate special moments with portraits will honor and reflect your path through life. Each day has been filled with ups, downs, triumphs, and moments of growth. Your photographs will serve as a testament to your resilience, strength, and beauty. They will create a visual representation of your personal evolution as meaningful chapters in your life, declaring that you are worthy of being seen, appreciated, and celebrated.  

Life moves at an astonishing pace. Moments that seem ordinary today quickly become treasured memories tomorrow. By having professional photographs taken, you can freeze those fleeting moments in time and cherish them forever. Imagine the joy on the faces of your loved ones when they stumble upon your beautiful photographs years from now. Your photographs will not only serve as a reminder of you but also become treasured heirlooms that connect generations. By investing in professional portraits, you gift your family and friends with timeless memories that will be cherished forever.

It's time to embrace your radiance, preserve your memories, and create a legacy that will inspire generations. Your session will be tailored to reflect your personality so you feel the best version of yourself throughout the process. In the studio, the highest priority is to create a safe and comfortable environment where you can authentically express yourself. Building a connection and fostering trust ensures you feel confident and at ease in front of the camera. A keen eye permits me to capture your emotions and create images that genuinely reflect your personality. Whether you desire a glamorous photo shoot or a more natural and candid session, know you will be seen, heard, and respected throughout the process. You deserve to exist in photographs. Together we will create images you'll love and witness your transformation when you acknowledge your worth.

Contact me today, to embark on your transformative journey. I cannot wait to share your unique story and reveal the stunning woman you are.

From the moment of our first breath to the final beat of our hearts, we embark on a remarkable adventure filled with experiences that shape our understanding of who we are and what we want to become. These experiences mold our character, discover our passions, and uncover our true potential.

This adventure allows us to encounter many people, places, and situations that challenge our beliefs. These experiences broaden our perspectives and push us beyond our comfort zones. Each encounter, whether joyous or painful, contributes to the rich tapestry of our lives. We can celebrate our successes, and in moments of adversity, we can learn valuable lessons. This is growth. By embracing transformative experiences, we can discover hidden passions, untapped talents, and a renewed sense of purpose. Our evolution gives us more understanding of who we are and what we want to become. The journey guides us toward a life aligned with our deepest values and aspirations.

We must remember to give ourselves grace. Self-discovery is not a destination. It is a continuous process of introspection and reflection. We unearth hidden talents, confront our fears, and cultivate resilience by embracing self-discovery. We are learning to listen to our inner voice, trust our instincts, and pursue paths that align with our authentic selves. The more we explore, the more we realize that our potential knows no bounds.

In the digital age, the significance of printing photographs may seem diminished. However, there are reasons why preserving your memories through prints is still essential.

Physical prints provide a tangible connection to your cherished moments. Holding a photograph in your hands evokes a sense of nostalgia, allowing you to reminisce and relive those special memories. Printed photos offer a personal, tactile experience that digital images cannot replicate.

Digital files are susceptible to accidental deletion, hardware failures, or technological obsolescence. Printing your photos will help you create hard copies for safekeeping. Even when technology changes, printed photographs remain accessible, making them available to be passed down to future generations, preserving your family history.

Printing your images can evoke positive emotions and trigger fond memories, reducing stress and anxiety. Surrounding yourself with printed photos of loved ones or special moments can create a sense of comfort and happiness in your living environment.

Physical photographs help to foster connections and have a remarkable ability to bring people together. They bridge the gap between generations, enabling grandparents to share their stories and memories with younger family members. Sharing photo albums and wall art with family and friends encourages storytelling, laughter, and emotional connections. Displaying your images with your favorite prints will transform your living space into a personalized gallery. Seeing your photos on display provides a sense of accomplishment and can spark conversations with guests.

Give your cherished memories pride of place. Print your photos. Don't confine your photos to screens; print them and embark on a journey of rediscovery and lasting joy.

Taking care of ourselves is not a luxury. It's a necessity for our overall well-being. Engaging in self-care activities helps us recharge, maintain balance, and cultivate a sense of happiness and fulfillment. However, ensuring that we actively participate in self-care requires some intentional steps.
The first step in practicing self-care is to identify our individual needs. We all have unique activities or practices that bring joy, relaxation, and fulfillment. These needs can be met through physical exercise, reading a book, spending time in nature, or practicing mindfulness. By reflecting on what makes us feel good, we can identify the self-care activities that resonate with us.
Once we have identified our self-care needs, it is crucial to make time for them. We all lead busy lives filled with numerous responsibilities, making it easy to neglect our well-being. However, by prioritizing self-care and setting aside dedicated time in our schedule for daily, weekly, or monthly practice, we can ensure that it receives the attention it deserves. Treating self-care as a non-negotiable aspect of our life; it will become a regular part of our routine.

This routine should include activities or practices that help us relax and recharge. It can be as simple as taking a warm bath, practicing meditation, engaging in a hobby, or spending quality time with loved ones. The key is to personalize the routine to our preferences and needs, ensuring that it brings us genuine joy and rejuvenation.
While practicing self-care, it is essential to cultivate self-compassion. Often, we find it easier to prioritize the needs of others over our own, leading us to neglect our well-being. However, self-compassion involves treating ourselves with kindness, understanding, and acceptance. We should allow ourselves to prioritize our needs, acknowledging that self-care is not selfish but necessary for our overall well-being. Just as we would offer support and compassion to a close friend, we must extend the same kindness to ourselves.
Moreover, seeking support is an integral part of self-care. Therapists, coaches, mentors, or friends can provide valuable insights, tools, and resources to help us on our self-care journey. Sharing our experiences, concerns, and challenges with a trusted support network helps to alleviate stress and provide a sense of belonging.
Self-care is a vital practice to help our lives. Self-care is not a luxury. It is an essential aspect of leading a balanced and fulfilling life. When we care for ourselves, we can handle life's challenges and nurture meaningful connections with others.

Your portrait experience should be a personalized and memorable experience that captures your essence. A phone call or in person meeting will take place after your inquiry. This is the time for us to chat and lets us know if I’m the right photographer for you*.

If you’re all set to move forward, a more detailed consultation will be scheduled so we can discuss the vision for your portraits before your session day arrives. These conversations allow me to get to know your personality and style more deeply. The day of your portrait session, be prepared to be excited, feel comfortable in a relaxed environment, and have fun. In my experience, when you feel at ease, your natural expressions and genuine personality shine. Throughout your session, you will be given guidance on posing, wardrobe, and other elements to ensure you look and feel your best in all the images.

At completion of your portrait session, we will have time to unwind as you see your images for the first time. You will review and select your favorite images from the collection. The images you select will be professionally edited and delivered in approximately 2 weeks*.

I know you will have stunning portraits will be treasured for years to come. Overall, your portrait experience should be enjoyable, stress-free, and memorable.

*A non-refundable $2000.00 retainer is required to reserve your session date. Your retainer is applied towards the folio package you select at your reveal. Final payment in full due at end of reveal.

Sometimes, capturing a moment means more than freezing time; it means capturing a part of ourselves that we want to hold onto forever. Recently, I had the privilege of having a portrait session in Asheville, NC. It was an experience I will never forget.
My portrait session took place with Cat Ford-Coates at Atelier Unforgettable. The studio was warm and welcoming; it was the perfect setting to create beautiful images.

I met Cat, photographer and owner, early in my research to schedule my photo shoot. We had talked by phone several times. Our conversations were easy and unpressured, she took the time to get to know me, understand what I wanted from the session, to make me feel comfortable in front of the camera. Her passion for photography is evident in how she meticulously prepares for every photo session in her studio. When the time came to make my final decision, I knew I was in good hands and was ready to sign the contract.

Cat’s hair and makeup artist, Mandy, was another crucial element in making the session memorable. Mandy and I met the day of my portrait session. She was skilled in enhancing my natural features. The completed look she gave me complemented my personality and style. Upon seeing myself in the mirror for the first time, I remember commenting how much her work reminded me of how I personally do my own hair and makeup.

From start to finish, I felt pampered and cared for every step of the way. Cat guided me through the poses and made me feel at ease in front of the camera. She meticulously performed each aspect of the session, from the lighting setup to the poses, ensuring that every frame would reflect my personality and inner radiance. I took along approximately 5 outfits of my own and Cat’s studio has a large variety of props, backdrops, and settings, allowing for a diverse range of shots showcasing different facets of my character. I was amazed to see how she captured my true self in the images she created.

As the portrait session came to an end, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude and fulfillment. My reveal took place at the end of my session. With so many beautiful images to choose from, it took me quite some time to finally narrow the selection to the ones I couldn’t part with.

Leaving Asheville, my heart had been filled with joy and gratitude. The portrait session not only provided me with stunning photographs, but also empowered me with renewed self-confidence, and a renewed love for myself. I look forward to repeating this incredible experience and create more lasting memories in the future.

The experience had exceeded my expectations, and I knew we had created a treasure trove of memories. From the anticipation leading up to the session to the final reveal of the beautifully edited photographs, every step of the journey was unforgettable.

Life surrounds us with countless fleeting moments. These moments easily slip away, never to be relived. It is in these moments that the art of photography becomes truly magical. As a passionate photographer, I have embarked on a captivating journey, armed with my camera, to capture and immortalize these precious instances.

When I started my photography journey, I quickly realized there was so much more to it than simply pressing a button. It was a humbling experience. I had to embrace my beginner's mind and learn from scratch. Understanding concepts like composition, lighting, and exposure became the building blocks of my photographic education. Every click of the shutter has opened my mind to new possibilities. As a result, I have eagerly absorbed knowledge from books, in-person workshops, online tutorials, and fellow photographers.

As I dove deeper into photography, I discovered a world of hidden beauty that often goes unnoticed. From the delicate petals of a flower to the mesmerizing dance of light on water, my camera has become a tool for unveiling the extraordinary in the ordinary. I have learned to see the world through a different lens, training my eyes to recognize captivating scenes, then capture them in a frame. Photography has become a constant reminder to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.

Even more powerful is the ability to tell stories. With every click, I look to create narratives that will evoke emotions and stir the imagination. Whether photographing a portrait, conveying a person's journey, or photographing a landscape, it's about capturing the essence of a person or place. Each image must carry a tale waiting to be shared.

When I focused on portraiture, I discovered the profound connection that grows between myself and my clients. Through my lens, I have permission to capture intimate moments, genuine expressions, and unguarded emotions. Building trust with my clients is essential to create authentic and captivating portraits. It has taught me the importance of empathy, patience, and the art of making people feel comfortable in front of the camera.

Photography has taught me to be open to serendipitous moments. Some of my most treasured photographs emerged from unexpected encounters or spontaneous situations. Being present and "in the moment" has allowed me to seize these precious opportunities. Reminding me to embrace spontaneity and appreciate the beauty of unplanned moments.

The Vintage Red Hat

Do you ever find an item so beautiful that you know you absolutely must get it?  Even though you aren't looking for that particular item? Some times I will leave it where it sits - only to go back and pick it up a couple of times to look it over and debate about taking it home. 

Such was the case with this gorgeous red hat.

Actually, It was purely an impulse buy for me. It called to me. I love the color red. The condition and style of the hat were perfect. I knew I wanted to incorporate into a session, but who would want to wear it? I had no photo shoots planned. We were about one year into the pandemic and I wasn't doing in-studio sessions. But I knew I had to get it, even if my husband couldn't understand why I needed one more hat. 

Well, it's been about 6 months since the Red Hat was brought home. Instead of waiting to use it, I decided to put myself in front of the camera today. A bit of lipstick, some pearls, a red velvet wrap draped over my shoulders and a self portrait was created...actually I did create a couple of images that I am rather pleased with.

How do you dream of being photographed?

Wow, 13 days into 2021 and I am getting back to work. Feeling a bit strange and a little out of balance, but it's nice to be getting back into a work routine.
You may once again schedule portrait sessions. Temporarily, all photo shoots will be conducted from a remote location as I am not bringing clients into my home studio at the present time.
The new location is conveniently located and allows us all to adhere to the current safety regulations and recommendations for Covid-19.
The process to set up your consultation is still easy. Simply  use the Contact Form on my website. Answer a few questions and together we will get started on your portrait experience. 

Personal Branding Sessions
Headshot Sessions
Contemporary Portrait Sessions

All other session styles will be conducted at a later date. Join my mailing list so you will be the first to know!

For your health and safety I have made the decision to not host sessions during this period in time. COVID-19 numbers are rising in our region daily and I want to take precaution to keep you and your families healthy. I promise we will be back in the studio to work together at the end of this. Creativity and the desire for beautiful portraits never goes away.  

In the meantime, I am creating new work and inspiration at www.INSPIRATIONATELIER.com
Currently, the site offers collections of images as a resource for everyone - creatives and entrepreneurs - to use in social media apps like Facebook, Instagram, Canva, etc.
Once you make your purchase, simply download the zip file and save. They're in a vertical format ready for sharing and are yours to use however you wish.

Meeting new people is one of my greatest joys. I first met A and C when they called to say they were the winning bidders of a gift voucher for a photo shoot. They had attended The Blue Moon Ball gala benefiting the Corning Children's Center back in February of 2020.
The session was in-studio and originally scheduled for late winter - early spring, so the plan was to create traditional portrait images. However, with the onset of COVID-19 and the close down of all activities the shoot was postponed. During their initial consultation he had suggested that it might be kinda cool to do some photos of the two of them with his car. Normally, I do not do on-location shoots but as time would tell, daily routines changed, and his wish came true. After many weeks (and a few times of rescheduling) we were able to do their on-location couples session.
Because they had never gotten the traditional engagement style photos before they married, their wish was to celebrate their 5th Wedding Anniversary with a photoshoot.
In these crazy times, it was so much fun and such and honor to have had them select me as their photographer. 

Days have turned into weeks. I am missing you, my clients, terribly. It appears that it will be several weeks more before appointments may be scheduled. My goal is to plan on booking appointments beginning in June 2020. All decisions will be reviewed as updated information comes in about health and safety measures for responding to the Covid-19 pandemic.
I am looking forward to the day when I can open my doors to once again to welcome you into the studio. Until we may work together again, please enjoy the short video below highlighting several of the past sessions I have had the pleasure of hosting.
Health and wellness to you and your families ~ Rebecca 

In October of 2019, I was given the honor of photographing a wonderful young lady.
Sarah had recently started her Senior year in high school and inquired about having her senior portraits taken. The consultation took place in September. Both she and her mother came into the studio for their visit where we became acquainted and began to share ideas. The discussion included a great deal of information; what her favorite colors were, what music she liked, where her fashion inspiration comes from, and what her plans might be after graduation. By the time we were done chatting she was comfortable knowing I would be the photographer for her and we were able to schedule the date for her photoshoot.
Excitedly, I went to work. An email with details for how to prepare for her session was sent out. A private Pinterest board was created to share inspiration Plus I was able to throw in some shopping for special props for her shoot. When her day arrived we caught up on all that she had been up to since we last visited. We looked through her wardrobe assortment, she shared how she wished to have her makeup and hair styled, I shared how props would be included, backdrops would be moved around, showed her some fabric I purchased so we could "play with" by creating an outfit to take pictures in, then we went to work.

Her session started at 10 a.m. and ran until 2 p.m. We had so much fun trying various posing styles and backdrops. We threw in some unique props that I thought she might enjoy incorporating. She particularly loved the disco ball that I just happened to have lying around. (Everyone should have one. Right?) After her shoot there were refreshments and more time to visit. We scheduled the date and time for her reveal and off they went.
To my delight, I received a message from her mother a few weeks later sharing a link to an article. Sarah had written about body image acceptance and her experience here in the studio and they wanted me to see it. I am happy to share it here with you: "I Tried Modeling and This is What Happened"