What a gift to oneself this experience is. I’ve followed Christie’s work for several years now and have been very inspired by her artistry and that of those she works with.
I always thought “if only”.
Just this past month my “if only” came to be. I was nervous and obsessed way too much over what outfits to bring but I put my trust in Christie and her team. I started out so very awkward but very quickly I was put at easy and felt comfortable in front of the camera (at least sort of, and definitely more then my normal). My normal is to avoid a camera and if I can’t avoid it at least to turn away whenever one is near.
My photo shoot with Christie took me out of my comfort zone! And I am so glad I did it! As I first viewed my images at the end of our session, I found myself pointing out what was wrong or what I didn’t like; Christie gently redirected my focus and shared what she saw in the photographs. This gave me the lens to look at them differently and I was able to see a strong joyful person. Simply put the photos made me happy, made me believe in possibilities and myself.
As it has been for many, the last two years of COVID have proven challenging; prior to these years I was putting in the work to reclaim myself. Having been a single parent frequently working multiple jobs, completely prioritizing my children and everything before myself I now had time for myself. With my children grown and responsible for themselves, it was time to find once again the me that wasn’t Mom. Prior to COVID I’d been stretching myself to go outside of my comfort zone, (improv classes, a career change). Then bang COVID, focus on personal discovery and growth shifted to working on the COVID response, and simply getting through the time of isolation and challenge that we all faced.
As COVID started to release its smothering grip I started to again find time for me and to look for ways to stretch and challenge myself. I found the opportunity for a visit to Grinkie Girls. My photo shoot with Christie has been a great way stretch and move outside my comfort zone. The power and confidence gained from this photo shoot has only increased as I’ve reflected on my session and been able to see some of the shots online. I have been able to refocus my efforts in preparing for my next chapter.
I am very excited to pick-up my album!
To anyone considering working with Christie I say don’t hesitate! You are worth it. The experience itself is a treat and empowering; the pictures are a bonus, something to help you remember that strong individual that exists outside of our labels of mom, employee, boss, etc.
A photo shoot with Christie is truly a safe and loving space! A space to which I’m already planning a return visit.