As the sun dipped behind the trees lining the NC Art Museum’s property and our session came to a close, I turned to Hannah and asked her a question that probably won’t seem all that remarkable. I asked her if she felt beautiful.

That’s a simple enough question, right? Most likely it’s one you probably wouldn’t even be the least bit surprised to hear during a session. But it wasn’t just an empty question, not for Hannah anyway. You see, Hannah emailed me about a week before our session. As we chatted about her wardrobe and locations, she began to share her insecurities and the anxiety and fear that comes with having her photo taken. As I read her email, my eyes filled with tears. Because maybe her story is completely different than mine, but I knew the anxiety and the insecurity. I struggled with an eating disorder in high school and felt like I was in a constant battle with how I saw myself. But that’s another story for another day.

What blew me away was that Hannah trusted me enough to open up about her own fear. And that gave even more ability to love on her and encourage her and show her how beautiful she truly is! And you guys, isn’t she stunning!

Hannah, you are amazing. I am so proud to know you and get to work with you and be a part of your amazing business, Between the Lines Editorial. You are a rock star in my books and a woman filled with joy and talent and beauty! Thank you for encouraging me to be more courageous every day. I am so honored to be a part of your story.